Community Composting for Water Protection

Published: 30 Aug 2025

On 24 August 2025, the Kembara Ilmu KESSA 2025: Air Kitani, Tanggungjawab Bersama Bah! program was held in Beaufort, Sabah. The event, organized by the Water Resources and Hydrology Management Division (BPSAH), Department of Irrigation and Drainage Malaysia, with Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), gathered students and local communities to learn about sustainable water and environmental practices.

One of the nine modules was delivered by Associate Professor Ir. Dr. Abu Zahrim bin Yaser and Dr. Ahmad Safwan bin Ismail from the Faculty of Engineering, UMS. Their session on “Food Waste Composting: Science and Practice” guided participants on composting techniques and the preparation of Effective Microorganisms (EM), a vital additive that accelerates the composting process. This practice not only reduces household waste but also protects water quality by preventing harmful leachate from contaminating rivers and groundwater. The session encouraged participants to adopt composting as a daily habit for cleaner water, healthier communities, and a sustainable environment.

Written by: Dr. Ahmad Safwan Bin Ismail