Sustainable Sewage Treatment and Environmental Compliance
Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP) is committed to effective and sustainable wastewater management in line with SDG 6 – Clean Water and Sanitation.
To ensure efficient operation and compliance, UniMAP has appointed a competent external company to perform maintenance work for the Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) on a 24-month contractual basis.
(Evidence 1: Wastewater Treatment UniMAP 2024, Page 1–4)
Compliance with National Environmental Regulations
This initiative ensures that all sewage treatment activities comply with the
Environmental Quality Act 1974 (Akta Kualiti Alam Sekeliling 1974) and
Environmental Quality (Sewage) Regulations 2009 [Peraturan-peraturan Kualiti Alam Sekeliling (Kumbahan) 2009)].
Scheduled Maintenance and Performance Monitoring
Maintenance is implemented periodically based on a Preventive Maintenance Plan (PPM) that includes weekly, monthly, and annual activities.
This structured schedule helps maintain system performance and ensures proper treatment of wastewater before discharge.
UniMAP also performs monthly monitoring through the Sewage Treatment System Performance Monitoring Parameter Record.
The monitoring covers chemical and physical tests to ensure the effluent meets the required discharge quality standards.
Effluent Testing and Continuous Improvement
Effluent samples are tested monthly by an accredited laboratory to verify compliance with national standards.
All Effluent Monthly Lab Test Results (2024) are documented and reviewed to maintain transparency and accountability.
Visual Documentation
To support transparency, UniMAP has compiled a picture report of the STP maintenance and monitoring activities.
This includes photographic evidence of inspection works, maintenance routines, and on-site treatment operations.
(Evidence 2: Picture Page 1–17)
Supporting Documents
Acceptance Letter (SST) – STP Maintenance Contract (Pg. 1–4, Evidence 1)
Preventive Maintenance (PPM) Schedule (Pg. 5, Evidence 1)
Summary of Chemical/Physical Tests (2024) (Pg. 6–7, Evidence 1)
Effluent Monthly Lab Test Results (2024) (Pg. 8–31, Evidence 1)
Environmental Quality Act 1974 (EQA) (Pg. 32–54, Evidence 1)
Photo Report – STP Activities (Picture Pg. 1–17, Evidence 2)
Through systematic maintenance, periodic monitoring, and adherence to environmental legislation, UniMAP demonstrates its strong commitment to reducing water pollution and ensuring safe wastewater treatment. These initiatives directly support SDG Target 6.3, which aims to improve water quality and promote sustainable management of water resources.
(More info: Evidence 1 : Wastewater treatment UniMAP 2024, Evidence 2: Wastewater Treatment Picture Evidence 2024)
Prevention of Water Contamination at UniMAP
Ensuring Safe and Treated Water Supply
Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP) is committed to providing a safe and clean water supply to all its campuses.
To prevent contamination, all water supplied to UniMAP is sourced exclusively from treated water managed by the local water authority – Syarikat Air Perlis (SAP).
This ensures that all water entering the campus meets national drinking water safety and quality standards.
(Evidence 1: SPAN Water Sewerage and Fact Book 2024 – Main Campus Water Supply, Perlis)
Campus Water System Pollution Prevention
To further protect the internal campus water system from potential pollution, UniMAP’s Development Department has implemented monitoring and control measures throughout the distribution system.
A control panel system has been installed at both primary and secondary screening points to continuously monitor and test water quality.
This system allows for real-time observation of water flow and quality, ensuring early detection and response to any contamination risks.
(Evidence 2: Page 1–17 – Water Quality Control System Photo Evidence 2024)
Supporting Documents
Water Sewerage and Fact Book 2024 – Main Campus Water Supply in Perlis (Evidence 1)
Photo Report: Water Quality Control Panel Installation and Monitoring System (Pg. 1–17, Evidence 2)
By sourcing treated water from Syarikat Air Perlis (SAP) and installing on-campus monitoring systems, UniMAP ensures that its water supply remains safe, clean, and compliant with environmental and health standards.
These proactive steps reflect UniMAP’s commitment to SDG Target 6.3, which emphasizes the importance of improving water quality, reducing contamination, and protecting community health.
(More info: Evidence 1: SPAN Water Sewerage and Fact Book 2024, Evidence 2: Water Quality Control System Photo Evidence 2024)
Provision of Free Purified Drinking Water at UniMAP
Ensuring Access to Safe and Clean Drinking Water
Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP) is committed to ensuring that all members of its community — including staff, students, and visitors — have convenient access to safe and purified drinking water.
To achieve this, UniMAP has rented and installed a water filtration system that provides free purified water across its campuses.
This initiative supports a healthy campus lifestyle while promoting sustainability through reduced reliance on bottled water.
Convenience and Sustainability Benefits
The availability of these water filter systems allows staff and students to easily access hot or cold purified water at any time.
It also helps save time and resources, particularly during meetings, viva voce sessions, and academic events, by eliminating the need to purchase drinks externally.
This initiative not only enhances convenience but also supports UniMAP’s green campus efforts by reducing single-use plastic waste from bottled beverages.
Campus-Wide Water Access Points
Currently, UniMAP provides free purified drinking water at approximately 21 locations across all campuses.
These water stations are strategically placed to ensure accessibility for students, staff, and visitors, reinforcing UniMAP’s dedication to health, well-being, and environmental sustainability.
Through the installation of campus-wide purified water systems, UniMAP demonstrates its ongoing commitment to SDG Target 6.3, which aims to improve water quality and ensure safe access to water for all. This initiative also aligns with UniMAP’s broader mission to create a sustainable, healthy, and inclusive learning environment.
(More info: LOCATION - DRINKING WATER 2024)
Rainwater Harvesting System at UniMAP
Supporting Sustainable Water Management
Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP) supports national initiatives toward sustainable water management through the implementation of a Rainwater Harvesting System across its campuses.
This initiative aligns with the government’s proposal — under the National Council for Local Government — to make rainwater harvesting compulsory for new large buildings as part of environmentally conscious construction practices.
(Evidence 1: Water-conscious building standards JKR Standard Specification Page 249–253, Rainwater Goods, Rainwater Harvesting System & Testing and Commissioning)
Purpose and Function of the System
The Rainwater Harvesting System (RHS) collects and stores rainwater from building rooftops for non-potable uses, including:
General cleaning and washing
Landscape irrigation
Toilet flushing
By reusing rainwater for these purposes, UniMAP effectively reduces its dependence on treated water supply and supports efficient water resource management on campus.
Benefits of Rainwater Harvesting
The system provides several key benefits to UniMAP:
Reduces demand on water supply from local concessionaires.
Provides an alternative water source during supply interruptions.
Minimizes the risk of flash floods by controlling surface water runoff.
(Rainwater Harvesting Tank Picture – Page 1–3, Evidence 2: Rainwater Harvesting Tank Photo)
Compliance with Local Water Regulations
The implementation of UniMAP’s rainwater harvesting initiative also complies with the Akta Jalan, Parit dan Bangunan 1974 and the Undang-Undang Kecil Bangunan Seragam (Negeri Perlis) (Pindaan) 2012,
which emphasize water-conscious building standards and sustainable infrastructure practices.
(Evidence 2: Rainwater Harvesting Tank Photo Page 4–6)
Supporting Documents
Rainwater Goods, Harvesting System & Commissioning Report (Pg. 249–253, Evidence 1: Water-conscious building standards JKR Standard Specification)
Rainwater Harvesting Tank Photo Report (Pg. 1–3, Evidence 2: Rainwater Harvesting Tank Photo)
Local Building Regulations:
- Akta Jalan, Parit dan Bangunan 1974
- Undang-Undang Kecil Bangunan Seragam (Negeri Perlis) (Pindaan) 2012
Through the installation of rainwater harvesting systems and adherence to national and local regulations, UniMAP continues to demonstrate its commitment to sustainable water conservation and environmentally responsible infrastructure design.
This initiative directly supports SDG Target 6.3, which focuses on improving water quality, increasing water reuse, and promoting sustainable water management practices.
(More info: Evidence 1: Water-conscious building standards JKR Standard Specification, Evidence 2: Rainwater Harvesting Tank Photo)
Water-Conscious Planting at UniMAP
Expanding Greenery with Sustainable Landscaping
Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP) actively promotes water-conscious landscaping practices to support environmental sustainability and biodiversity.
Through this initiative, UniMAP has expanded its campus greenery with 7,166 plants, integrating sustainability principles into every stage of campus landscape design and maintenance.
The initiative under SDG 6.3.5 – Water-Conscious Planting emphasizes the importance of using drought-tolerant, native plant species and efficient watering techniques to conserve water while keeping the campus environment vibrant and welcoming.
Selection of Drought-Tolerant and Native Plants
UniMAP’s landscaping strategy includes plant species that thrive in local climatic conditions and require minimal watering. Among the selected species are:
- Hamelia patens (Fire Bush)
- Pachystachys lutea (Golden Shrimp Plant)
- Lantana camara (Bunga Tahi Ayam)
- Leucophyllum frutescens (Texas Sage)
- Heptapleurum actinophyllum (Schefflera)
These species not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the campus but also contribute to significant water conservation and improved ecosystem resilience.
Efficient Watering and Maintenance Practices
UniMAP implements several water-efficient practices in its landscaping management, including:
- Early Morning Watering: Conducted during cooler hours to minimize evaporation losses and allow plants to absorb water more effectively. This also helps prevent fungal diseases that occur when foliage remains wet overnight.
- Mulching: Application of organic mulch around plants to retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and reduce weed growth.
- Drip Irrigation System: A targeted watering method that delivers water directly to the plant roots, minimizing wastage.
- Use of Native Plants: Incorporating species that are naturally adapted to the local environment, reducing the need for excessive watering and maintenance.
Sustainable Impact
These water-conscious planting efforts not only reduce overall water consumption but also enhance campus biodiversity, soil health, and resilience to drought.
By combining ecological awareness with efficient irrigation, UniMAP ensures that its landscapes remain vibrant, sustainable, and environmentally responsible.
Through the implementation of water-efficient landscaping practices, UniMAP continues to strengthen its commitment to SDG Target 6.3, which focuses on improving water quality, reducing wastage, and promoting sustainable resource management.
This initiative serves as a model for eco-conscious campus design and demonstrates UniMAP’s leadership in integrating sustainability into every aspect of its operations.
(More info: Water-conscious planting 2024)
