Written by:

Plastic has become an indispensable part of modern life, but its convenience comes with an environmental cost that is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore. As larger plastic items gradually break down, they can form tiny particles known as microplastics. Although these particles are often invisible to the naked eye, their presence in aquatic environments has raised growing concerns about ecosystem health, aquaculture sustainability and human well-being.

Recognising the importance of this emerging environmental issue, the Faculty of Applied Sciences (FSG), Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Perak Branch, Tapah Campus, organised an international collaboration-based Service-Learning Malaysia–University for Society (SULAM) programme entitled “Plastic Bites Back: Threats to Global Aquaculture Sustainability” on 10 June 2026 through online platform: Google Meet. The programme was conducted in collaboration with Sharda University-Uzbekistan and the Kampung Tanjung Bidara Community, particularly the River Cage Fish Farming Project. A total of 72 participants took part in the programme, including 33 participants from Sharda University-Uzbekistan, and one representative from Kampung Tanjung Bidara Community, together with participants from UiTM Tapah. The programme provided an opportunity for students, academics and community members to exchange knowledge and explore practical approaches to reducing plastic pollution in aquaculture.

Participants were encouraged to identify possible sources of plastic pollution and consider practical solutions that shared during Q&A and forum session among the lecturers from UiTM Tapah and Sharda University Uzbekistan, including responsible waste management, reduction of unnecessary plastic use and more sustainable aquaculture practices. These activities strengthened students’ ability to apply scientific knowledge to real-world environmental challenges. Participants then took part in interactive game activities that developed through Quizizz and Kahoot apps. Followed by closing speech by Dr. Fathiah Binti Abdullah, the head of the faculty, FSG, UiTM Perak Branch Tapah Campus, and the photo session with participants.

Most importantly, in STEM-based learning, the participation of Sharda University, Uzbekistan, provided an international platform for students to exchange ideas and perspectives on environmental sustainability. At the same time, engagement with Kampung Tanjung Bidara Community ensured a connection between academic discussions to real aquaculture practices and community needs. Such collaboration demonstrates that addressing plastic pollution requires collective efforts involving universities, students, communities and relevant stakeholders.

In conclusion, the “Plastic Bites Back” programme demonstrated how STEM-based SULAM activities can empower students to become environmentally responsible problem-solvers while creating meaningful benefits for the community and inspire them to move from awareness to action. Ultimately, the programme contributed to SDG 14: Life Below Water by promoting awareness and action to reduce aquatic pollution. It also contributed to SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, SDG 4: Quality Education, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals through responsible waste management, experiential learning and collaboration between universities: UiTM Tapah, Sharda University-Uzbekistan and the Kampung Tanjung Bidara Community. By promoting responsible plastic use and sustainable aquaculture practices, the programme contributed to protecting aquatic ecosystems and supporting a healthier, more sustainable future.