02/06/2026
UTM International and UTMCCS Host Enriching Geotourism Ecoprint Workshop to let Global students embrace nature
JOHOR BAHRU, 23 May – Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) transformed into a vibrant hub of creativity and environmental consciousness as UTM International in collaboration with the UTM Centre for Campus Sustainability (UTMCCS) successfully hosted the "Geotourism Etno Botanical Walk[zz1.1][MH1.2] and Eco Print Workshop.
The event, held at the lush of UTM Johor Bahru campus, brought together a diverse group of 12 international students and UTM International staff fostering a unique blend of cultural exchange and ecological appreciation.
The participants, currently pursuing an exchange study at UTM, were treated to an immersive experience that moved beyond the traditional classroom. The program was meticulously designed to bridge the gap between academic life and environmental stewardship through the art of Ecoprinting, a sustainable, eco-friendly craft that utilizes natural elements like flowers, barks, leaves, and plant pigments to create intricate, unique imprints on fabrics and paper.
The workshop was expertly led by the Deputy Director of UTMCCS, LAr. Dr. Zanariah Jasmani. Before diving into the creative process, Dr. Zanariah guided the international students on an educational botanical nature walk across the campus grounds. During this excursion, participants were tasked with identifying various species of trees and leaves, deepening their understanding of the local flora and the importance of biodiversity within the campus ecosystem.
"This programme is more than just an art workshop; it is an exercise in mindfulness and sustainability.
"By teaching these students to see the artistic potential in natural elements that are often overlooked, we hope to instil a lasting appreciation for our environment and the critical importance of preserving it,” remarked Dr. Zanariah during the session.
Following the identification session, the students channelled their findings into their own unique fabric creations. The process required both patience and creativity, as participants carefully arranged their chosen botanical materials to transfer natural dyes and patterns onto their canvases. The result was a collection of distinct, organic designs that served as tangible mementos of their connection to the Malaysian landscape.
The day concluded on a high note, as the students were invited to sample a variety of local Malaysian fruits. For many of the participants, this was a sensory introduction to the rich agricultural heritage of the region, perfectly rounding off a day dedicated to celebrating nature’s abundance.
This Geotourism Programme stands as a testament to UTM’s commitment to integrating sustainability into the student experience. By engaging international students in such hands-on, environmentally conscious activities, UTM continues to nurture a global community that is not only academically proficient but also deeply committed to the principles of environmental sustainability and cultural appreciation. As these students return to their respective studies, they carry with them a newfound perspective on how to live in harmony with the natural world.
Also joining the programme were Senior Assistant Registrar of UTMCCS, Kiflee Jimpi and Senior Assistant Registrar of UTM International, Zetty Raihan Mohd Yassin.
The Geotourism Ecoprint program organized by UTM International and the UTM Centre for Campus Sustainability (UTMCCS) is a multidisciplinary initiative that directly aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
By combining education, environmental awareness, and cultural exchange, the program touches on the following key areas such as SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, SDG 15: Life on Land and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.
In summary, this initiative is a perfect encapsulation of UTM’s commitment to the "5Ps" of Sustainability—People, Prosperity, Peace, Partnership and Planet—by integrating environmental knowledge into the social and educational fabric of student life.