USM Hunger Intervention Programmes

Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) continues to provide interventions to prevent or alleviate hunger among students, including the supply and access to food banks and community food-sharing programmes across its campuses. Guided by the principles of compassion, inclusivity, and sustainability, these initiatives ensure that nutritious food remains accessible to students and staff in need. Through collaborative partnerships with government agencies, local organisations, and student associations, USM actively contributes to the global mission of SDG 2 (Zero Hunger).

1. Communication Foodbank

On 6 June 2024, the USM Student Representative Council (Majlis Perwakilan Pelajar, MPP) collaborated with Food Bank Mutiara and the School of Communication (SOC) to launch the Communication Foodbank initiative. Led by MPP representative Daneswaran A/L Muneswaran Thiagu, and supported by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bahiyah Omar, the Penang State Government, and Food Bank Mutiara, the programme was held at the C10 Building, SOC.

The initiative provided 100 packs of frozen food and 50 hygiene goodie bags containing toothpaste, shampoo, toothbrushes, and soap, prioritising students from the low income group. It offered immediate relief to those facing food insecurity while strengthening partnerships between USM, government agencies, and local community networks. Beyond providing essential items, the programme fostered a caring and supportive campus environment that reflects USM’s commitment to student welfare and compassion.

2. Foodbank@PPTI

The Foodbank@PPTI initiative, launched on 14 June 2024, serves as a weekly food security programme that directly supports students and staff in need. Jointly organised by the USM Student Representative Council (MPP) and the School of Industrial Technology (PPTI), this initiative was designed to provide interventions to prevent hunger among campus members, particularly during high-stress academic periods.

Running for four consecutive Fridays before the study week, the programme offered free breakfast and essential food supplies to around 30–50 beneficiaries per week. It operates every Friday from 9.00 a.m. to 11.00 a.m., replenished weekly with fresh bread and local dishes such as nasi lemak. By ensuring consistent and convenient food access, Foodbank@PPTI reinforces a culture of sharing, empathy, and community well-being.

3. Food Supply through the Iftar Programme

During Ramadan 2024, the Pusat Islam USM coordinated the daily provision of Iftar meals across the Main, Engineering, and Health Campuses, as well as IPPT Bertam. This long-standing programme, running for over 40 years, acts as both a food supply and hunger intervention to support students, staff, and local residents.

At the Main Campus, between 2,000 and 2,500 meals were distributed daily, increasing to 3,000 meals during the academic term. More than 300 volunteers comprising staff, students, and community members contributed to procurement, cooking, and distribution. Funded through staff payroll deductions, student contributions, and public donations, the initiative reflects strong solidarity and collective responsibility. In support of sustainable practices, the “Green Ramadan” campaign encouraged the use of personal containers to minimise single-use packaging and food waste.