By : Nurul Ain Ramli

SERDANG, 20 June 2025 – A total of 19 staff members from the International Institute of Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences (I-AQUAS), Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) demonstrated outstanding commitment to a healthy lifestyle by participating in the PUTRASihat 10,000 Steps UPM Programme Series 2, organised by UPM’s Sports Academy at the main campus in Serdang.

Despite the long distance from UPM Port Dickson to UPM Serdang, I-AQUAS staff remained enthusiastic, departing as early as 6:00 a.m. to ensure timely arrival for the programme, which began at 8:00 a.m.. The light drizzle in the morning did not dampen their spirits and instead added to the refreshing experience along the route.

The programme aimed to promote awareness of the importance of regular physical activity and mental well-being among the UPM community. The 10,000-step route started and ended at the Kolej Sultan Alaeddin Suleiman Shah (KOSASS) parking area and passed through several iconic landmarks on campus, including Bukit Ekspo, Jalan Satelit, Jalan Maklumat, and Kolej Pendeta Za’ba.

UPM Vice-Chancellor, YBhg. Dato’ Prof. Ir. Dr. Ahmad Farhan Mohd Sadullah, who also participated in the event, expressed strong support for such initiatives, highlighting their role in fostering a more harmonious and health-conscious campus environment.

“Programmes like this help nurture a culture of healthy living while supporting the overall mental and physical well-being of the university community,” he said.

The programme attracted more than 1,300 participants, including directors, deans, staff, and students from various departments and faculties. According to the Director of the Sports Academy, Prof. Dr. Mohammad Hamiruce Marhaban, the encouraging response reflects a growing awareness of health and wellness among the UPM community.

The participation of I-AQUAS staff reflected strong sportsmanship, discipline, and team spirit. All 19 participants successfully completed the 10,000-step challenge, underscoring the institute’s commitment to supporting UPM’s well-being initiatives.

I-AQUAS remains dedicated to actively supporting university programmes that contribute to the holistic health and development of staff and the wider campus community.

Date of Input: 26/06/2025 | Updated: 21/08/2026 | nurulainramli