SERDANG: Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), through its University Community Transformation Centre (UCTC), has reinforced its role as a catalyst for community development by handing over infrastructure facilities under the Kampung Angkat MADANI Project to residents of Sawah Sempadan, Tanjong Karang, Selangor.
The handover took place in conjunction with the Karnival Putra at Sawah Sempadan 2025, held over two days on December 13 and 14 at the Kampung Kunci Air Buang Community Centre. The event attracted approximately 2,000 visitors from surrounding areas, reflecting strong community engagement.
The carnival was officially launched by UPM Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Industry and Community Network), Prof. Dr. Ir. B.T. Hang Tuah Baharudin, who also officiated the symbolic handover of completed infrastructure projects to the local community.
Among the facilities delivered were upgrades to the village jetty, the development of a mini park and pedestrian walkways, the construction of a waste collection house, and the installation of 10 solar-powered streetlights at strategic locations to enhance safety.
To support local economic activities, UPM also provided five sales kiosks and three kayaks aimed at boosting agro-tourism and community entrepreneurship in Sawah Sempadan.
Prof. Dr. Hang Tuah said the initiative aligns with the MADANI Government’s aspiration to implement people-centric projects that improve basic amenities and enhance the quality of life in rural areas.
He emphasised that UPM’s engagement with communities goes beyond academic research, encompassing knowledge transfer, innovation and infrastructure support that delivers tangible benefits.
In addition to the infrastructure handover, the carnival featured a wide range of knowledge-sharing activities, including health awareness programmes, agricultural demonstrations and food processing workshops.
Traditional games, sports competitions and children’s activities were also organised to foster community bonding and inclusivity.
The event successfully strengthened strategic ties between the university and the local community, paving the way for continued collaboration in research, innovation and sustainable community development.