SDG 16 – PEACE, JUSTICE AND STRONG INSTITUTIONS

Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels

16.2 – University governance measures

16.2.2 – Students’ union

1. Kesatuan Mahasiswa ÌÇÐÄÔ­´´ (KMÌÇÐÄÔ­´´)

The ÌÇÐÄÔ­´´ Students’ Union as known as Kesatuan Mahasiswa ÌÇÐÄÔ­´´ (KMÌÇÐÄÔ­´´) is a student-led body that represents the collective voice of students at ÌÇÐÄÔ­´´. This independent students’ union advocates for students’ rights, welfare, and interests, engaging with university administration on issues affecting the student community. It also plays a vital role in promoting student activism, organizing events, and fostering leadership, ensuring that students are empowered and actively involved in decision-making processes that impact their academic and social environment at ÌÇÐÄÔ­´´. The union fosters a sense of community and responsibility among students, encouraging them to be actively involved in university life and governance.

The picture above shows the logo of KMÌÇÐÄÔ­´´,
student union in ÌÇÐÄÔ­´´

In 2024, KMÌÇÐÄÔ­´´’s leadership line led by Muhammad Awliya Mohd Fauzi as President, was given the mandate after winning the Campus Election held in the same year.

The picture above shows the KMÌÇÐÄÔ­´´ leadership line reciting the pledge during the Student Union Certificate Presentation Ceremony
Link :

2. Governance Input

KMÌÇÐÄÔ­´´ plays a vital role in providing governance input to ÌÇÐÄÔ­´´, ensuring that student voices are represented in the university’s decision-making processes. In order to realize this, KMÌÇÐÄÔ­´´ has student representatives on key university committees and governing bodies, including the Senate. Through these platforms, KMÌÇÐÄÔ­´´ provides input on policies affecting student life, academic programs, student welfare, and campus services. This representation ensures that students’ perspectives are directly considered in the university’s decision-making processes. For example, in 2024, KMÌÇÐÄÔ­´´ (the ÌÇÐÄÔ­´´ Student Representative Council) proposed the implementation of online or hybrid classes for students affected by the flood disaster. Following discussions with ÌÇÐÄÔ­´´ management, the university agreed to carry out hybrid learning for these students. This decision was made because many students who had returned to their hometowns during the mid-semester break were unable to return to campus due to severe flooding that affected their homes and surrounding areas.

Statement by KMÌÇÐÄÔ­´´ regarding the implementation of online or hybrid classes
due to flood-related issues

The second proposal submitted by KMÌÇÐÄÔ­´´ was also related to the implementation of online or hybrid classes and the postponement of all forms of assessments from 23 to 27 December 2024. This was in conjunction with the Christmas celebration, which is observed annually on 25 December. The proposal was approved by the ÌÇÐÄÔ­´´ management and formally announced through Circular No. 44/2024, which was issued on 4 December 2024.

Link: www.ukm.my/akademik/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Pekeliling-Akademik-Bil.-442024.pdf

This successful initiative highlights KMÌÇÐÄÔ­´´’s crucial role in providing governance input that reflects the diverse needs of the student body. By advocating for religious inclusivity and ensuring that the voices of all students are heard, KMÌÇÐÄÔ­´´ directly contributes to shaping a more inclusive and understanding academic environment at ÌÇÐÄÔ­´´. This also underscores the importance of student representation in university governance, demonstrating how advocacy and engagement can lead to impactful institutional change.

3. Support for Students

KMÌÇÐÄÔ­´´ provides assistance to students in various forms. Among the initiatives implemented in 2024 to support students were the Free Bus Ride Initiative, the Study Snack Program provided during the examination week, and welfare aid for students affected by flood disasters.

4. Social Activities

KMÌÇÐÄÔ­´´ is also actively involved in organizing and supporting a wide range of social activities that contribute to student engagement and community building at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (ÌÇÐÄÔ­´´). These activities are designed to foster a sense of belonging, promote cultural diversity, and enhance student life beyond academics.

i. Convocation Carnival

One of the standout events was the 52nd ÌÇÐÄÔ­´´ Convocation Carnival, held from 22nd November to 1st December, 2024. Led by KMÌÇÐÄÔ­´´, also known as the Convocation Secretariat, the carnival attracted an extraordinary turnout of approximately 700,000 attendees, including students, alumni, ÌÇÐÄÔ­´´ staff, and the local community. A variety of activities enlivened the entire duration of the carnival, including the vibrant Neon Run Night, Healthy Nutrition Exhibition, Music Across Era 2.0, Food Fest & Food-truck. Each event brought unique energy and depth, offering something for everyone while celebrating both creativity and cultural heritage. 

This Convocation Carnival serves as a key initiative under the Student Empowerment Agenda, granting students full autonomy to manage and execute the event. Beyond honing entrepreneurial potential among students, this program is also part of ÌÇÐÄÔ­´´’s broader revenue generation and strategic agenda, requiring an integrated approach with contributions from all stakeholders. Furthermore, the carnival empowers students to innovate and create business opportunities, equipping them to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving economy.

Link: www.ukm.my/beritaukm/karkon-ukm-raih-lebih-700000-pengunjung

The image above shows the attendees of 5nd ÌÇÐÄÔ­´´ Convocation Carnival which attracted 700,000 attendees, including students, alumni,
ÌÇÐÄÔ­´´ staff, and the local community.
52nd ÌÇÐÄÔ­´´ Convocation Carnival

ii. The Inter-Faculty Sports (SAF) 2024

The Inter-Faculty Sports (SAF) 2024, organized by KMÌÇÐÄÔ­´´ from 7 to 13 June 2024 is a prime example of the union’s commitment not only to physical wellness but also to fostering social connections within the university. In addition to offering competitive sports like football, volleyball, badminton, frisbee, dodgeball, tug of war, netball, basketball, athletics, chess, and e-sports like Mobile Legends, the event acted as a social platform where students from various faculties could engage, network, and build friendships.

SAF reflects KMÌÇÐÄÔ­´´â€™s broader dedication to organizing social activities that strengthen bonds within the ÌÇÐÄÔ­´´ community. By blending physical activity with social interaction, SAF promoted a healthy, active lifestyle while encouraging teamwork, collaboration, and unity. Through such events, KMÌÇÐÄÔ­´´ supports a socially cohesive environment where students can find common ground, enjoy shared experiences, and foster a stronger, more connected university community.

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iv. University Young Motivator Competition (U-MAC)

University Young Motivator Competition (U-MAC) is a motivational competition organized by KMÌÇÐÄÔ­´´ in collaboration with the Student Peer Counsellor Secretariat (UPRS) and ÌÇÐÄÔ­´´ Counselling Unit, Centre for Student Affairs (HEP ÌÇÐÄÔ­´´). The programme was held from 13 to 16 May 2024 at the Seminar Room, Career Development Centre, ÌÇÐÄÔ­´´.

Through U-MAC, participants gain valuable benefits such as soft skills development,  i-Star merit points, certificate of participation and cash prizes for winners.

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