Search Results

Issue Written on 1st May 2024 COLLABORATION OF ELS AND BELAS TO SUPPORT AND INSTIL CARES OF MINDEN Cat food and treats were donated by the members of the English Language Society (ELS), BELAS and volunteers of the Live, Love, Meow! event. (Source by Sumayya Fauzi) MAIN CAMPUS, 1ST MAY - Live, Love, Meow! a charity-based event was held by the members of the English Language Society (ELS) of Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) along with the collaboration of BELAS on April 27th, Saturday from 9 am to 12 pm at Minden 11800, D18. According to the project director of the event, Nur Syazwani Mohammad Syukri, the main purpose of the event was not only to raise funds to support the cats of Minden but also to foster awareness of the well-being of the cats while building a sense of love and connection towards them. “Aside from raising awareness on strays, this is also a charity-based event since we wanted to raise funds to support the cats of Minden. With the funds we received, we wanted to make this event more laid-back so that students could spend their time playing with the cats after a long hectic week,” said Nur Syazwani. “As of now, we are grateful that the event went well and the funds we collected are way beyond my expectations since we could afford kibbles and some of those expensive cat treats. We managed to achieve our main goal and most importantly, foster strong love and connection for strays among the students of USM,” said Nur Syazwani. Nur Syazwani also stated that the team could not have done it without the collaboration with BELAS in organising the charity event that grew merrier with the support of volunteers and participants. “We collaborated with BELAS, a cat-loving club known for their continuous efforts of saving strays and raising awareness of their well-being. We believe that our collaboration with BELAS is suitable since our event is cat-themed this year,” said Nur Syazwani. ​ Students participating in the feeding session with the cats and kittens of Minden during the Live, Love, Meow! event. (Source by Sumayya Fauzi) The secretariat of BELAS, Aiman Abdul Halim, stated that BELAS is an acronym for Believe, Empathy, Love, Affection and Salvation which aligns with their sole intention of saving the strays around the university. “We have conducted various activities and events that emphasize raising awareness of the well-being of stray cats. For instance, in 2023, we had an exhibition called “Oyen: Cerita Tentang B.E.L.A.S.” held at the university’s museum where we gathered efforts to portray the reality of a stray’s life and how they are often overlooked or not getting the attention they deserve by society lately,” said Aiman. “We have other upcoming events as well. As of now, we are doing our best to save as many strays as we can because our main target is to reach 0 strays. Although there may be some strays here and there, we want to ensure that they are still under our care regardless,” said Aiman. Aside from the collaboration with BELAS, Aiman stated that the event even presented the saved kittens and they were being put up for adoption. Balqis Faqihah Rajak, a postgraduate from the School of Management stated that she has volunteered for almost a year and that it could be challenging looking after the cats at times. “It is not easy to look after the strays because some people bring them in without financial support or donations. With the funds we received, not only do we need to support their food and litter but also spay or neuter them to avoid overpopulation, which is undeniably an issue right now,” said Balqis. “From the event and collaboration between BELAS and ELS, we can now visualize the next step we must take to support the well-being of these cats and strategically plan on saving them in the future,” said Balqis. Students of the event spent time playing with the kittens that were put up for adoption. (Source by Sumayya Fauzi) Text: Sumayya Fauzi/ Photo: Sumayya Fauzi Created on: 1st May 2024

Issue Written on 22th May 2024 CELEBRATION OF TEST AND CULTURE The whole crew of Flavours’ Rx: Foodfest Photo Sharvena Kanapathy MAIN CAMPUS, 22 May 2024- The Baktisiswa Pokok Sena Programme under Persatuan Sains Malaysia Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) has conducted Flavours’ Rx: Foodfest on 21 May 2024 and 22 May 2024 from 5 P.M till 11 P.M at Padang Kawad USM. ​ This is not something new for USM clubs to organize a food festival every month, it has become a culture and the students are loving it. More than 60 vendors of various food, drinks and desserts were located in Padang Kawad, USM. To make the festival livelier, it was accompanied with music and live performances by Malam Galau, Adikarma, Flashmob, Jazz Band, Kungfu Protégé and Fireshow. ​ According to the Project Director, Shri Shrutika Elangovan, the main objective of this food festival is mainly to collect funds for the Baktisiswa PSF 23/24 programme this coming August. Baktisiswa PSF 23/24 is a 3 days gotong royong event to help the villagers and conduct some interesting activities there. ​ “The most effective to collect funds is by conducting a food festival because USM students could never get enough of food. We have received great crowd on the first day, not only USM students but outsiders too filled Padang Kawad”, says Shri Shrutika. ​ ​ USM students enjoy surfing through the food stalls Photo Sharvena Kanapathy Shri Shrutika mentioned that this is not only a food festival but a celebration of taste and culture. “We invited many clubs to do various performances, more than entertainment, it was to expose culture for the people who came for the festival. Through the clubs that we invited had the opportunity to promote their upcoming event. On the other side, we also wanted to ensure that there was enough crowd so that the vendors could obtain profit”, added Shri Shrutika. ​ According to Shri Shrutika, almost RM 1000.00 was spent for this festival which they paid for the perfomances, fireshow and public address systems. The most exciting part during the festival that garnered a huge crowd was for the fireshow that started at 8 P.M on 22 May 2024. ​ One of the audiences, Darineshan Shangmugasuntharam, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2, the festival always had something happening after another, it was never bland for a moment. Some of vendors that was invited was new as there were new type of food to try. ​ “The fire show was a big hit, the performers were so interactive, they even spared 1 hour to take pictures with audience”, said Darineshan. Darineshan mentioned that all of her friends had a great time and it was definitely a memorable event of the year. The fireshow at Flavours’ Rx: Foodfest Photo Sharvena Kanapathy Text: Sharvena Kanapathy/ Photo: Sharvena Kanapathy Created on: 22th May 2024

Issue Written on 18th May 2024 PROTECT OUR MOTHER EARTH Mountain of waste collected by staff and students. (Picture by Chen Ke En) Main Campus, 18th May - The Environmental Protection and Education (EPE) Hub of Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) organized a beach cleaning activity at Pantai Teluk Bayu, Penang. This activity designed to raise awareness among USM staff and students about their eco-responsibility, especially regarding recyclable waste. It involved 30 USM students and staff, alongside nine members from the Penang Scout Association to clean up the beach. In the beach cleaning activity, EPE Hub prepared garbage pickers, leaf brooms, gloves, wicker baskets, and a wheelbarrow for the participants to clean up a lot of waste and plastic waste. They not only cleaned up the rubbish on the beach, but also checked the surrounding environment to ensure the cleanliness of the whole area. The cleaning activity not only raised the participants' awareness of environmental protection, but also showed their firm determination to protect the environment. ​ In addition, a representative of SS Mutiara Metal, Mr Ravi was invited to the activity and Mr Ravi introduced the importance of recycling and how to properly dispose of waste to the USM staff and students. Mr Ravi also shared environmental knowledge and practical environmental tips to increase students' awareness and participation in environmental protection. ​ The core activities included cleaning coastal areas and guidance on sorting recyclable and non-recyclable waste for the participants. According to Event Coordinator, Khoo Boon Yin said USM staff and students resulted in the collection of 26.4 kg of recyclable waste and 63.9 kg of waste non-recyclable waste. While expressing his satisfaction, he also stressed the importance of the achievements of the activity to the cause of environmental protection, as well as the hard work and spirit of solidarity and cooperation shown by the participants. ​ "We hope that through such activities, more people's attention and action on environmental protection will be aroused. Everyone can contribute to environmental protection, responsibility to maintain beach cleanliness by collecting recyclable items for Green Charity. We believe, through collective efforts we can create a cleaner and better world,” said Khoo. ​ A Year 2 student, Tan Yin Ann, School of Management, said participating in this beach cleaning activity taught her a lot about environmental protection, especially how to properly separate waste. She realized the importance of environmental protection, everyone should do their part to protect the earth. Tan said she will continue to participate in similar activities to contribute to environmental protection. ​ This beach cleaning activity not only injected new vitality into the cause of environmental protection, but also conveyed a positive environmental attitude to the community. In the future, Mr Khoo said will continue to organize similar activities to contribute to the cause of environmental protection and call on more people to join in environmental protection actions. Mr Ravi was teaching students to categorize waste. (Picture by Chen Ke En) Text: Chen Ke En/ Photo: Chen Ke En Created on 18th May 2024

Issue Written on 10th April 2024 GAPP PRACTICES THE BEAUTY OF GIVING DURING RAMADAN Members of Gabungan Anak Pulau Pinang (GAPP) handing out meals to the public. (Picture by Sumayya Fauzi) MAIN CAMPUS, 10TH APRIL - Members of Gabung Anak Pulau Pinang (GAPP) of Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) have gathered together during Ramadan to distribute meals to the homeless and public surrounding Georgetown, Penang. According to the project director of the program, Muhammad Nazifie Khan Mohd Najib Khan, the program which took place on March 30th was hosted to nurture feelings of concern and sympathy among students of USM towards the underprivileged while encouraging them to ponder on ways they could assist the people around them. “The primary objective of this initiative is to share the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah SWT with the less unfortunate individuals, such as the homeless. We cannot overlook those in need as we are aware of ways to alleviate some of their hardships, especially during Ramadan,” said Muhammad Nazifie. Muhammad Nazifie also stated that this is the first time GAPP conducted a program of distributing food to the homeless. “Though this is our first time, GAPP has always organized similar initiatives to this in our previous programs such as volunteering and distributing “bubur lambuk” to people breaking their fast and they have also been done during the month of Ramadan in the previous years,” added Muhammad Nazifie. Muhammad Nazifie stated that the team had chosen Komtar and Padang Kota as the two main spots to distribute the meals to the homeless and the public. “Many homeless people are sleeping and seeking shelter on sidewalks surrounding Georgetown. Additionally, they often gather in groups, making it easier for us to distribute meals to them in Komtar. We typically spot them in the alleys below Komtar, Prangin Mall, 1st Avenue and around the bus station,” said Muhammad Nazifie. ​ Meals prepared and stacked by the members of Gabungan Anak Pulau Pinang (GAPP). (Picture by Sumayya Fauzi) The head EXCO of GAPP’s community and volunteer department, Muhammad Atif Suhaimi, stated that they had patrolled the area before the program was conducted. “The spots we have chosen are strategic. It is also safe since there are passersby and the area is not too dark for the members to do their job,” said Muhammad Atif. Muhammad Nazifie stated that though the homeless and public are their prime target, students of USM are also their target audience throughout their program as they want to ensure that students are aware of the importance of helping those in need and aim to foster feelings of love, concern, sympathy and self-identity among them. “Simultaneously, as residents of Malaysia, we want to demonstrate to citizens how crucial it is to support one another regardless of our differences in status and race,” added Muhammad Nazifie. However, Muhammad Atif stated that they had to make amendments to the program’s tentative due to the sudden rainfall and other unexpected challenges. “Due to the sudden rainfall, the changes we made to the tentative was a challenge as the program was supposed to commence at 1 am and was changed to 2 am after the rain had stopped. Aside from the weather, some homeless people appeared shocked and scared by our presence when we were distributing food. There were incidents where they almost hit us too. Thus, we took the initiative to place their meals beside them quietly when they were sleeping without bothering them,” said Muhammad Atif. Muhammad Nazifie stated that they would even consider organizing a program involving the homeless at Pusat Transit Gelandangan as they aspire to distribute more meals and extend their assistance to others in need as a way to improve future programs such as this. ​ Text: Sumayya Fauzi/Photo: Sumayya Fauzi Created on 10th April

Special Report Written on 26 May 2024 Behind The Scenes: The One and Only Nutmeg Factory In Pulau Pinang Ghee Hup Nutmeg Factory, located in Balik Pulau, Penang has become a popular tourist attraction in the area and also in the application Youtube. As a tourist attraction, Ghee Hup Nutmeg Factory provides a short but interesting detour or stop for visitors exploring the Southwest Penang Island Region. ​ Weng Kit, a local tourist from Ipoh visited the nutmeg factory because their products are very famous. Weng Kit's family is aware of nutmeg and has a demand for it. Weng mentioned that he wants to promote the benefits of nutmeg to everyone because the function of nutmeg oil is good for the body and can reduce pain. ​ The factory’s popularity as a tourist attraction highlights the growing interest in experiencing authentic local industries and supporting sustainable tourism practices in the region. This factory has marked its fifth generation as of today, a long historical journey till they had the opportunity to converse with Tun Dr Mahathir Mohammad and Tun Abdullah Haji Ahmad Badawi in the past. Nutmeg Tree Photo Nuril Izni Binti Zakaria Nutmeg follows in two different types which are young and mature. Young nutmeg is mainly used to prepare beverages and oil, taking advantage of its delicate, fresh taste. Young nutmeg is a great place to get essential oils, which are loved for their flavour and potential health benefits. Mostly, these oils are used for a variety of culinary, medicinal, and cosmetic purposes. On the other hand, mature nutmeg is often used as a spice in both savoury and sweet recipes due to its fully developed and strong flavour character. ​ Mature nutmeg's warm, rich flavour compliments baked foods, soups, and sauces. Nutmeg seeds are different from many other plant seeds in that they require a particular planting procedure. Nutmeg farmers can get high-quality fruits that satisfy both commercial and gourmet standards by following these exacting production procedures. Nutmeg Balm is one of the products that is produced in this factory. Photo Ahmad Imran Mohammad Roslani The History Of The Ghee Hup Nutmeg Factory Chang Kun Min reminisces about the past of his factory. Photo Nuril Izni Zakaria The history of the Ghee Hup Nutmeg Factory dates back to 1953 when Chang’s grandfather who had endured a tough life initially migrated all the way from Huizhou, Guangdong, China to Southeast Asia which is Penang, Malaysia with the instant decision to buy land at Jalan Tanjung Bungah, Kampung Sungai Pinang, 11000 Balik Pulau, Pulau Pinang. ​ Chang’s grandfather eventually saved enough money to buy five plots of land to secure a future for his five children. However, the impulsive move did not take him long to start a legacy that would be known as a tourist attraction today in Penang. ​ “After my grandfather bought the land, he was absolutely clueless, until he discovered nutmeg trees in that particular area. That is when everything changed,” said Chang. ​ Chang’s father began selling nutmeg preserves that are locally known as salty-sweet as he bought nutmeg from across Balik Pulau and sold it to preserve factories. ​ “After my grandfather and his men managed to master the various processes involving nutmeg, the production of candied nutmeg and later, canned salted citrus came in during my father’s era,” added Chang. ​ Chang stated that efforts to develop and package nutmeg into more processed products were done in a collaboration between the factory and the wholesaler, which eventually expanded to wholesale to various supermarkets in 1965. ​ “For over 20 years, this partnership was stable until the 1986 "Cooperative Crisis" and a global economic downturn led the department store chain to liquidate, severely impacting Zheng’s nutmeg business. Other challenges included the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. The successful collaboration enabled nutmeg to be distributed throughout Malaysia,” said Chang. ​ Chang stated that it is currently the third generation that is inheriting the business. He mentioned that there was no one available to help with the business and his daughter, Emily Chang, voluntarily assisted her father, which she had been doing for 10 years at the factory. “I am 82 now and I have been in the industry for 53 years since I was 12 in 1953. Carrying on this family business is not just about preserving tradition, but also about sharing our unique family flavours with more people. The family business is our foundation, and I will do my utmost to pass on this solid foundation,” said Chang. ​ The Process Of Producing The products in Ghee Hup Nutmeg Factory The nutmeg process begins with cultivation; nutmeg trees, particularly female ones, bear fruit twice a year, typically around March and September. Harvesting involves collecting mature nutmegs, which are initially white and later turn brown as they mature. ​ Post-harvest, the nutmegs undergo a sun-drying process. Mace, the red arils surrounding the nutmeg seed, is also sun-dried. Mature nutmegs are then cracked open to extract the seeds, which are further dried until they rattle inside their shells, indicating readiness for processing. The sun-drying process of nutmeg. Photo Nuril Izni Zakaria At the Ghee Hup Nutmeg Factory, the labour force engaged in nutmeg processing predominantly consists of individuals of Malay descent. This through employee selection is actually in alignment with strategic goals, designed to cater to the preferences of the local Malay population while providing them with a sense of comfort and familiarity when they consume nutmeg products from the business in question. ​ This strategy demonstrates the factory's awareness of the social and cultural nuances of the demographic it is targeting, which is primarily Malay Muslims. The company fosters familiarity and trust with its Malay consumers by employing the Malays for positions involving nutmeg processing. ​ In addition, Ghee Hup Nutmeg Factory's hiring strategy functions as a strategic differentiation in an extremely competitive sector. Through employee integration with the cultural preferences of its target market, the factory sets itself apart from its competitors and increases its appeal to Malay consumers. Along with fostering customer loyalty, this market difference positions the business as a socially conscious and culturally aware company. ​ The Chang family has been involved in the Ghee Hup Nutmeg Factory's remarkable development from a small-scale agricultural business to a renowned manufacturer of goods produced from nutmeg in the Penang area. Notably, Chang Kun Mim led a significant diversification of the initiative, adding innovative products such pickled nutmeg, nutmeg syrup, and nutmeg balm to the product line. The enterprise's survival has been strengthened by this strategic expansion, which has served as a safeguard against the changes in raw nutmeg pricing ​ ​ Chang introduced the function of different parts in nutmegs. Photo Nuril Izni Zakaria

Issue Written on 14th May 2024 INDUSTRIAL VISIT TO INDAH WATER KONSORTIUM BY SCHOOL OF INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY Group photo of the participants with Miss Fatin Adawiyah. Source: Muhammad Nizamuddin MAIN CAMPUS, 14 May - School of Industrial Technology recently organized an industrial visit program to Indah Water Konsortium in Batu Feringghi, Penang to which it was open to all USM students regardless of their majors. This aim to provide the students, particularly from the School of Industrial Technology with firsthand exposure to real-world operations and to enhance the understanding of industry-specific practices and professionalism. Miss Fatin Adawiyah, the Treatment Executive of the Indah Water Konsortium, thoroughly briefed this industrial visit and guided the participants. She stated that one of the first processes in purifying the sewage water was they had to remove any hard substances from the sewage water before continuing to the next process. “It is a tedious process as it involves the publics health and we need to make sure that it meets the standards that the government has set” she added. How Yi, Project Director, Industrial Technology 2, implied that to conduct this industrial visit, few precautions needs to be taken into consideration. These are very important steps as it will ensure the safety of the participants. “I believe it’s crucial to conduct a pre-visit safety briefings. This is to ensure the adherence to safety protocols and also to assign responsible staff for oversight purposes. We also have to plan an interactive and engaging activities for the visit” she expressed. William Andrew, Languages, Literacies, and Translation 3, said that this was a new experience for him, coming from a participant from a different school and field of expertise. He expressed his eagerness to learn something out of his scope of knowledge. “It was a fantastic experience overall. Despite being a language major student, this visit was incredibly insightful. It provided me with valuable exposure to an industry and field of study outside of my primary focus. Witnessing the operations and technologies at Indah Water Konsortium expanded my horizons and deepened my appreciation for the interdisciplinary nature of environmental issues”. said William. Text: Mohammad Nizamuddin/Photo: Mohammad Nizamuddin Created on: 14th May 2024