Beranang, 6 June – A total of 41 students from the Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), successfully carried out the Santuni Kasih, Mekar Budi programme at Pusat Jagaan Nurhasanah, Beranang, Selangor. The programme aimed to improve the well-being of elderly residents through a service-learning approach that combines community service, experiential learning and environmental transformation.

The programme was organised in collaboration with Pusat Jagaan Nurhasanah and supported by Al-Ameen Wakaf Management, OZO Bina Sdn. Bhd., the Centre for Wakaf, Zakat and Endowment (WAZAN UPM), as well as members of the local community. It focused on addressing several key needs of the care centre, including improving the physical environment and enhancing the psychosocial well-being of its residents.

Among the initiatives carried out were the creation of a mural at the entrance of the home, repainting two residents' rooms, landscaping through tree planting, and organising interactive activities such as traditional games, karaoke and community engagement sessions with the elderly. These initiatives helped create a more cheerful and comfortable living environment while strengthening the relationship between the students and the residents.

Besides benefiting the community, the programme also provided an authentic learning experience for the students. It allowed them to apply project management, communication, teamwork and leadership skills beyond the classroom. Through direct interaction with the residents, the students gained a better understanding of the challenges faced by welfare institutions and developed greater empathy, social responsibility and a stronger spirit of volunteerism.

During the closing ceremony, the management of Pusat Jagaan Nurhasanah expressed their appreciation for the students' commitment and dedication throughout the programme. They shared that the transformation went beyond improving the physical environment of the home, as it also brought happiness, encouragement and meaningful companionship to the elderly residents.

The programme demonstrated how university students can contribute to community development through meaningful service. By applying a service-learning approach, academic knowledge was translated into practical solutions that addressed real community needs while nurturing graduates who are not only academically competent but also socially responsible and committed to serving society.

The Santuni Kasih, Mekar Budi programme reflects the Faculty of Engineering's aspiration to produce engineers who possess not only strong technical knowledge but also compassion, leadership and a commitment to community service, in line with sustainable development goals and the university's community engagement agenda.

Date of Input: 11/07/2026 | Updated: 11/07/2026 | aida.peli