UTAR Public Relations students blend skills with social impact

The Star

2 days ago

A CORPORATE social responsibility (CSR) campaign called 'We Want No Plastic Project' led by 63 final-year Public Relations students from UTAR successfully raised and donated RM3,858 to UTAR Hospital.
The symbolic mock cheque presentation took place during the first session of the 40th UTAR Convocation Ceremony on April 11, highlighting the graduates' commitment to sustainability and social impact as they graduate and step into their professional careers.
The project aimed to raise awareness on microplastic pollution, advocate the reduction of single-use plastics and promote healthier and eco-friendly lifestyles. The donation to UTAR Hospital not only supported the institution's sustainability efforts but also reflected the theme 'From Grads to Future Greats', symbolising both the students' academic milestones and their commitment to social responsibility as members of the younger generation.
The success of this project is a testament to the hands-on, industry-relevant learning embedded within UTAR's Bachelor of Communication (Honours) Public Relations programme under the university's Faculty of Arts and Social Science (FAS).
Designed to equip students with essential communication, planning and media management skills, the programme nurtures socially conscious professionals, who can lead purposeful campaigns and connect meaningfully with diverse audiences.
UTAR president Prof Datuk Dr Ewe Hong Tat recognised the students' remarkable achievements in securing the university's first gold award at the Malaysian Public Relations Awards 2024. He expressed his gratitude for their meaningful contribution while receiving the mock cheque, and extended his best wishes to all graduates for a bright and successful future.
Project advisor cum FAS academic Dr Diong Fong Wei, who also graduated with a PhD during UTAR's 40th Convocation, shared her gratitude and words of encouragement, 'My heartfelt thanks go to all our sponsors and collaborators for their generous support and, most importantly, to the students for their dedication and perseverance.
'I have always believed that this isn't just a class project, but a meaningful life experience. The amount may seem small to many, but I believe it is the sincerity that truly matters. UTAR has always supported not only academic excellence but also the holistic development of its students.'
Project director, Year Three public relations student Chen Zhi Shan expressed, 'We are truly grateful to our advisor for providing us with the guidance and freedom to develop creatively. From June to September 2024, our team successfully carried out 10 diverse events.
'While executing this project, we were aware of the potential health risks posed by microplastics. This motivated us to drive the project forward. We hope that our efforts will not only impact the campus community but also raise broader awareness among the public.'
She further added that the project has provided her team with valuable insights and practical exposure that will stay with them long after graduation.
'The funds we raised came from our fundraising efforts and generous community sponsorships.'
She quoted a Chinese saying that says 'what we take from society should be given back for the benefit of society'. After much discussion, the team agreed to donate the amount to UTAR Hospital in gratitude to their university and as a way to give back to the wider community that has continuously supported their journey.
'Although the project concluded last year, we hope its message and impact will continue to inspire sustainable and health-conscious behaviours, while fostering more acts of kindness and civic responsibility across all levels of society.'
These experiences reflect the real-world focus of the Public Relations (PR) programme offered under UTAR's FAS. The programme encourages experiential learning through client-based campaigns, PR consultancy simulations, strategic social media campaign and CSR initiatives, to empower students with vital skills in writing, strategic storytelling, multimedia content creation, crisis communication and digital engagement.
It prepares them to thrive in diverse career pathways within PR, corporate communication, brand storytelling, social media management and content creation, positioning them at the forefront of a rapidly transforming industry.
Another UTAR's 40th Convocation graduate and a project member Lui Kai Jian stated, 'This was a valuable opportunity for us to put into practice what we have learned over the past three years. We discovered the gap between theory and real-life application, which helped to strengthen our communication, planning, and problem-solving skills. I believe it marks the beginning of our professional journey and will motivate us to keep improving and pushing boundaries in our future careers.'
UTAR offers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in areas including Accountancy, Actuarial Science, Applied Mathematics, Arts, Chinese Studies, Malaysia Studies, Business and Economics, Biotechnology, Engineering and Build Environment, Information and Communication Technology, Life and Physical Sciences, Medicine and Health Sciences, Media and Journalism, Education and General Studies, and Agriculture and Food Science.
The university also engages in the provision and conduct of research, consultation, management and leadership training, as well as other related educational services at its Sungai Long and Kampar campuses in Malaysia.
Visit UTAR Open Day on Sept 6-7 from 9am to 4.30pm at both Kampar and Sungai Long campuses. For more information, go to www.utar.edu.my or call 05-468 8888 (Kampar Campus), 03- 9086 0288 (Sungai Long Campus).