By Zaki Salleh
TAIPING: Taiping has been selected as a pioneer area and adopted community (Kampung Angkat) of Universiti Malaya (UM), an initiative implemented through its Community Engagement Centre (UMCares).
This inaugural initiative has been realized in collaboration with the Taiping Municipal Council (MPT) through the launch of UMCares@Taiping.
The launch ceremony at the Pavilion of Taiping Zoo & Night Safari was officiated by the Adviser to the Minister of Higher Education, Datuk Ahmad Shalimin Ahmad Shaffie.
Taiping was chosen as the pilot location due to its rich historical value and its potential for sustainable development.
A total of nine projects will be implemented in Taiping, including the Larut Foothills Development Project, the One Million Trees Programme, and the Financial Empowerment Project for Rural B40 Entrepreneurs, among others.
This effort aligns with Universiti Malaya’s strategic agenda: Communitize, Internationalize, and Industrialize.
It is more than just a slogan — it reflects a true commitment to engaging with the community through the involvement of academics, administrators, and students who are actively on the ground, sharing knowledge and energy for the betterment of society.
Earlier, a memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between UM Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dato’ Seri Ir. Dr. Noor Azuan Osman, and MPT President, Khairul Amir Mohamad Zubir.
UM has chosen Taiping Zoo and Night Safari as a research site for conducting scientific studies.
The research will involve behavioral ecology and welfare assessments of large mammal species such as the Golden Cat, Leopard Cat, and other carnivores, as well as water quality assessments and pond treatment studies.
