DARWISH ISKANDAR BIN JAMALLUDIN (U2103060)

 PLANNING PHASE

Our team had organised multiple meeting sessions during the planning stage to carefully plan out our project. We emphasised the importance of carefully distributing the tasks and responsibilities of each member so that our project remains organised so that it can be run smoothly without having any disruptions or interference. Firdaus was elected as our group leader and he was in charge of ensuring the group members work together as a whole unit. After some precise analysis and evaluation, we have narrowed down our project choices to two community service events, “Imagineers Society” and “Wave of Change”. After conducting extensive research and carefully weighing all aspects, our team has made the choice to embark on the "Wave of Change" project as our community service initiative. Personally, the idea of this project excites me as I would be getting the chance to participate in a beach cleaning programme as this would be my first experience of doing so. The tasks and duties that were assigned accordingly to each member were accomplished diligently before event day as a preparation step. Each member had their own role in the preparation of this event for it to be a success. For example, some members were in charge of finding transportation while the others were responsible for providing supplies such as garbage bags, gloves, scissors and mineral water. The planning phase taught me quite a few lessons on the importance of establishing good communication between team members and effective teamwork in running a project. Therefore, any misunderstandings or obstacles could be faced effectively when my teammates were able to cooperate with each other efficiently.

PROJECT EXECUTION

On the day of the event which was on the 28th of May 2023, our team gathered at the engineering faculty and had a quick briefing before heading to the destination. Thus arriving at the scene, we gathered the equipment needed and were set to carry out our activity. As I walked along the shoreline, picking up litter and witnessing the impact of human negligence, I couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions.Initially, I felt a sense of frustration and disappointment at the amount of trash scattered across the beach. It made me realise how easily people can overlook the consequences of their actions and how this neglect can harm our environment. However, as I continued cleaning and interacting with fellow volunteers, my outlook began to shift. The beach cleaning program allowed me to appreciate the power of collective action and the importance of individual responsibility. Working alongside like-minded individuals who shared a passion for environmental conservation inspired me to take greater accountability for my own actions. I started to consider how my daily choices, such as reducing single-use plastics or properly disposing of waste, could make a significant difference. Hours passed and we had come to a point where our job was already at its end. It was frustrating thinking about how there was a lot more that we could’ve done but I was still happy because we had contributed to the cleanliness of the beach. As we readied ourselves to leave, a wave of achievement and contentment engulfed us. Though fatigued from a day brimming with physical effort, the weariness seemed insignificant when contrasted with the immense happiness and gratification that resonated within us.

POST-PROJECT EXECUTION

Reflecting on the post-project execution of the beach cleaning program, I feel a profound sense of satisfaction and accomplishment. Looking back at the progress we made and the impact we had on the beach, I am filled with a mix of emotions. First and foremost, I feel a deep sense of pride in our team's efforts. We dedicated our time and energy to organising and executing the program, and seeing it come to fruition fills me with a sense of fulfilment. Witnessing the transformation of the beach from a littered space to a clean and pristine environment reinforces the importance of collective action and motivates me to continue contributing to similar initiatives.  However, I also recognize that our work is far from finished. While we made a significant impact during the beach cleaning program, it is essential to acknowledge that maintaining a clean environment requires ongoing efforts. This reflection motivates me to explore long-term solutions and advocate for sustainable practices, such as promoting responsible waste management and educating others about the importance of environmental conservation. In conclusion, the post-project reflection of the beach cleaning program leaves me with a deep sense of fulfilment, gratitude, and a renewed commitment to making a positive difference in our environment. It serves as a reminder of the importance of our collective responsibility and the potential for continued growth and impact in our ongoing efforts to protect and preserve our natural surroundings.