MUHAMMAD FIRDAUS BIN ZULKIFLI (U2000939)

As I contemplate the social engagement project that took place at Pantai Bagan Lalang, I discover that it has been a deeply fulfilling experience consisting of three distinct stages: the preliminary preparations, the actual event, and subsequent reflections.

Preliminary preparations

During the pre-engagement phase, my teammates and I focused on thorough preparations and research for our project. Our main objective was to ensure that every aspect of the project would be well-planned and executed effectively. Instead of creating social media accounts, our team invested time in researching various beaches to determine the most suitable location for our project. We conducted meetings where we discussed ideas, allocated tasks, and collaborated on developing a budget and logistical plans. The attention to detail and extensive preparations reflected our commitment to the success of the project. In addition, I also bought some necessary supplies such as garbage bags, gloves and mineral water together with Janting and Faiz. This phase taught me the importance of careful planning, research, and teamwork in laying a strong foundation for a successful social engagement project. 

Day of the event

Figure 1: Briefing

On the day of our much-anticipated beach cleaning project, our team gathered at the faculty, ready to embark on a day of purposeful action. Excitement buzzed in the air as we shared our enthusiasm and sense of responsibility. Before setting off for the beach, we knew the importance of ensuring everyone was well-informed and prepared. So, we huddled together for a briefing session that would set the tone for the day. As we gathered, the warmth of the morning sun matched our anticipation. The briefing began with a heartfelt reminder of the purpose behind our project to make a positive impact on the environment and the community we served. It was a reminder of the collective power we held to effect change. 

Figure 2: Interview session

To make the project even more meaningful, we decided to incorporate an interview session with members of the local community. We believed that their insights and perspectives were invaluable in understanding the environmental challenges faced by the beach and the significance of our efforts. It was a chance for us to connect, to listen, and to learn from those who lived and cherished this place. Their passionate accounts illuminated the significance of preserving our natural spaces and left a lasting impression on our team. The interviews served as an invaluable opportunity to connect with the community and further strengthen our commitment to the cause. Throughout the day, we found ourselves immersed in a harmonious rhythm of cleaning and interviewing. The physical effort exerted while picking up trash was paralleled by the emotional connection fostered through the interviews. It was a testament to the power of collective action and the transformative impact of engaging with the community directly.

Figure 3: Recycling activity

In addition to our cleaning and interview activities, we also made a conscious effort to promote recycling during our beach engagement project. As we gathered the litter and waste from the beach, we diligently separated recyclable materials, including mineral bottles and other items. Recycling was more than just a task; it was a mindset ingrained in our project. We educated ourselves and others about the importance of recycling and its positive effects on the environment. Through discussions with community members during the interviews, we also highlighted the significance of responsible waste management, including recycling, to create a sustainable future. By incorporating recycling into our project, we demonstrate our commitment to not only cleaning the beach but also promoting eco-conscious behaviors. It served as a tangible way to reduce waste and contribute to the preservation of our natural surroundings.

Figure 4: Water filter from bottles

The act of recycling, alongside the cleaning and interviewing, symbolized our holistic approach to the project. It reflected our dedication to making a positive impact on the environment and fostering a sense of responsibility within the community. By engaging in recycling practices, we reinforced the message that every small action can collectively make a significant difference in creating a cleaner and more sustainable world. In addition, we also make a water filter from the recycle bottles. It was made up of bottles, sand, and stones. 

Figure 4: Tidy up the prayer room

Before heading back to our college, a beautiful gesture of unity and respect unfolded as my Muslim friends and I took the initiative to tidy up the prayer room. Recognizing the significance of this sacred space, we wanted to ensure that it remained clean and welcoming for all those who would come to pray. With brooms and cleaning supplies in hand, I carefully dusted and swept the prayer room, removing any debris or clutter that may have accumulated. We meticulously arranged the prayer mats and ensured that everything was in its proper place, creating an atmosphere of tranquility and serenity. 

As we left the beach that day, our hearts were filled with gratitude and a renewed commitment to making a positive difference in our community. The experiences and reflections shared throughout the day had left an indelible mark on each of us, reinforcing the importance of working collectively towards a better future. 

After

Our beach cleaning project was a powerful demonstration of how each of us has the potential to create meaningful change. It taught us that even small actions, when done with intention and unity, can have a profound impact. By embracing diversity, respecting one another's beliefs, and working together towards a common goal, we created spaces that fostered a sense of belonging, peace, and harmony. We witnessed the transformative power of our collective efforts, from cleaning the beach to engaging with the community and tidying the prayer room. Through our project, we learned that by coming together with a shared purpose, we can transcend individual limitations and make a positive difference in our communities and ourselves. It was a reminder that every individual has the capacity to contribute to a better future, and by nurturing this potential, we can inspire others to join us on the path towards a more inclusive and sustainable world.