UNIVERSITI SAINS MALAYSIA, 19 APRIL 2026 – The Industrial Technology Society (TISOC) successfully organized an engaging online talk titled “Tiny Plastics, Lasting Damage: Our Rivers at Risk,” which brought together all students from different courses and school to explore our current major environmental issue, Microplastic Pollution. The session featured an insightful sharing by Dr. Widad Fadhullah, a senior lecturer from the School of Industrial Technology, who highlighted Malaysia’s alarming position among the top plastic waste contributors in Asia. Participants were exposed to the realities of plastic pollution, including the differences between macroplastics and microplastics, as well as the life cycle of microplastic contamination, that goes from land sources to aquatic systems and ultimately into the human body.
This session was more than just a talk; it served as a wake-up call. Participants gained valuable knowledge on identifying recyclable plastics, understanding proper waste management, and recognizing the importance of individual actions in reducing plastic consumption.
The session also highlighted real-life applications, including microplastic sampling methods and cleanup initiatives led by Dr. Widad and her team. These included a Plastic Waste Audit conducted at Jeti Wak Ali and Sungai Perai, as well as a community sharing session during the SULAM event organized by IEA112 students from the School of Industrial Technology.
The programme became more interactive during the Q&A session, where participants actively engaged with the speaker by discussing solutions, policies, and everyday practices to reduce plastic waste. The exchange of ideas encouraged critical thinking and emphasized that change starts both at the institutional and individual level.
To make the session even more engaging, a Kahoot quiz was conducted at the end of the programme to test participants’ understanding of the topic. This fun and competitive activity not only reinforced the knowledge gained but also created an enjoyable learning experience for everyone involved.
This program wasn’t just about awareness but was about action. Participants were encouraged to adopt sustainable habits in their daily lives and contribute towards reducing microplastic pollution. Through this initiative, TISOC continues to empower students with knowledge, responsibility, and motivation to protect our environment.