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Recently, Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) Society of Petroleum Engineers Student Chapter (APU SPE SC) strengthened its commitment to environmental protection and community engagement through a coastal clean-up and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative held at Bagan Pinang, Port Dickson.

Aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 3, 12, 14, 15, and 17 (SDG 3, SDG 12, SDG 14, SDG 15, and SDG 17), the initiative brought together around 30 students, focusing on creating a cleaner environment, supporting local communities, and promoting sustainable living; under the guidance of Ir Dr Wong Siew Fan (Senior Lecturer, School of Engineering at APU), whose leadership continues to drive impactful, sustainability-driven student initiatives.

Driving cleanliness and Environmental awareness

With students arriving early at the designated meeting point, the day set off with a strong sense of purpose.

Students prepared their equipment, received briefings, and organised themselves into teams; setting the momentum for a hands-on mission to improve the coastal surroundings and engage meaningfully with the environment.

Core activities carried out during the initiative included:

1. Clearing litter and debris along public spaces
2. Sorting and managing waste responsibly
    

This clean-up not only improved the condition of the area, but also encouraged students to consider how everyday actions and responsible habits together support the broader goal of creating a cleaner and healthier planet. 

Creating lasting Impact

Bany Zechariah Mangar Chol, President of APU SPE SC reflected on the meaningful impact of the coastal clean-up at Bagan Pinang, noting how the experience deepened students’ appreciation for environmental responsibility.

“The coastal clean-up was far more than a simple act of community service; it vividly demonstrated how the power of collective effort can bring about tangible, meaningful change, reminding us that even modest individual actions, when multiplied across many people, have the potential to leave a lasting and significant impact on the environment.” Dr Wong also emphasised the importance of such hands-on efforts, highlighting how they bridge academic knowledge with practical application.

“The initiative gave students a meaningful opportunity to put their understanding of sustainability into practice, fostering responsibility, environmental awareness, and a collaborative spirit that will guide their contributions to society.”

Reflecting on the initiative’s conducted by APU SPE SC, APU’s Chief Innovation & Enterprise Officer Professor Ir Eur Ing Ts Dr Vinesh Thiruchelvam, shared that witnessing APU SPE SC evolve since its establishment has been both deeply rewarding and inspiring, as it has steadily transformed into a dynamic platform for student-led innovation and community engagement.

He noted that the students have continued to elevate in terms of activities in 2025 through their vibrant leadership, strong academic support, and unwavering commitment; demonstrating how dedicated student communities can drive meaningful, long-term impact that extends beyond the classroom.