MyKompos@Pantai Dalit: Strengthening Community-Based Sustainable Waste Management

Published: 30 Dec 2025

The Faculty of Engineering (FKJ), Universiti Malaysia Sabah, through the Living Lab UMS @ Pantai Dalit initiative, successfully conducted the MyKompos@Pantai Dalit Program on 18 October 2025 in Kampung Berungis, Tuaran. The programme was officiated by Yang Berbahagia Datuk Seri Panglima Abdul Rahman Dahlan, Chairman of the UMS Board of Directors, represented by Assoc. Prof. Ir. Dr. Abu Zahrim Yaser, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Head of MyKompos Lab.

This community-engagement initiative aimed to empower local communities in sustainable organic waste management, focusing on practical composting techniques and the production of natural enzyme cleaners from household waste. Led by the MyKompos Lab research team-Dr. Mariani Rajin, Dr. Sariah Saalah, Dr. Ahmad Safwan Ismail, Dr. Nurhazwani Yusoff Azudin, and Pn. Azreen Ibrahim-together with FKJ laboratory staff and engineering students, the programme offered both theoretical and hands-on sessions to enhance community competency in low-cost, environmentally friendly waste solutions.

The initiative aligns strongly with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, by promoting waste reduction, resource recovery, and circular practices within rural communities. It also supports Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) by integrating technical knowledge, community participation, and behavioural change towards sustainable living.

Approximately 30 participants from Mukim Berungis and Pantai Dalit actively engaged in group activities, demonstrating a strong commitment to adopting the “waste-to-resource” approach. The programme also highlighted the role of multidisciplinary expertise, from engineering to science and technology, in developing community-led sustainable solutions under the Living Lab ecosystem.

The event was attended by representatives from UMS administration, local leaders including the village chiefs of Berungis 1 and 2, JPKKP Berungis, as well as FKJ lecturers and students. MyKompos@Pantai Dalit is expected to serve as a catalyst for wider sustainable community initiatives in the Pantai Dalit region, contributing to the Sabah Green State 2030 agenda and fostering long-term environmental stewardship.

Written by: Dr Nurhazwani Binti Yusoff Azudin