Semenyih, Selangor, 1 October 2024 – In response to intensified flooding concerns, the University of Nottingham Malaysia (UNM) officially launched the West LAKE, a multistakeholder flood remediation solution aimed at mitigating increasing climate risks for on-campus residential blocks and neighbouring communities in the Taman Tasik Semenyih (TTS) area.
Witnessing the official launch of the West LAKE was Professor Shearer West, Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of Nottingham, and Professor David FitzPatrick, Interim Provost and CEO of UNM. Designed as a long-term answer to the threats of floods that have impacted the UNM campus and TTS community, the West LAKE has been developed to upgrade existing drainage systems to ensure the campus is resilient to any future increases in rainfall.
West LAKE is named in honour of Vice-Chancellor Professor Shearer West, recognising her leadership at the University of Nottingham, while also referencing its geographic location on the north-west side of the campus. LAKE is also an acronym (‘Liveable Area for Knowledge Exchange’) that reflects its multipurpose design as a hub for intellectual collaboration, learning, and community engagement, reinforcing the university’s commitment to fostering innovation and knowledge sharing.
Speaking of the project, Professor David FitzPatrick, Interim Provost and CEO at UNM said that, “As a university, our role at UNM extends beyond teaching and learning, and into a greater responsibility for the communities and living environment around us. The launch of West LAKE reflects our commitment to sustainable solutions in addressing the climate challenges we face”.
Multi-stakeholder collaborations to co-create community solutions
The cross-disciplinary project involved government and local council stakeholders such as the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (JPS) at both Selangor state and Hulu Langat district levels, the Kajang Municipal Council (MPKj), as well as the local resident association, represented by the Persatuan Penduduk Taman Tasik Semenyih (PPTTS). In addition, consultancy and contracting works were managed by G&P Professional Sdn. Bhd. and Wibawa Works Sdn. Bhd. respectively.
Taking special attention in ensuring support from the local community, UNM also worked closely with the Persatuan Penduduk Taman Tasik Semenyih (PPTTS). Throughout the project, regular discussions were held with all stakeholders to ensure the most suitable flood remediation solution was identified. West LAKE is expected to bring long-term benefits to the TTS residents, not only by preventing future disasters but also by enhancing the overall quality of life in the area.
Advancing research for community quality of life improvements
West LAKE’s benefits for campus and local residents extend beyond flood protection. For UNM students and staff, it represents a facility to support teaching, learning and research. It has been equipped with state-of-the-art equipment to provide real time data on water levels and water quality in the lake, which will be used in both teaching and research undertaken by academics and postgraduate students.
Incorporating beautiful landscaping and functional hardscape infrastructures such as jogging paths and bicycle tracks, the West LAKE is also intended for both students and the public to utilise the open park space for recreational and lifestyle activities. It has been planted entirely with native species, so it contributes to conservation. “We are looking forward to seeing the continued positive impact of this project in the years to come from flood mitigation and research advancements to community improvements. UNM remains steadfast in our commitment to creating a safe, sustainable, and thriving environment for all,” added Professor FitzPatrick.
For more information on the University of Nottingham Malaysia, visit www.nottingham.edu.my.
Posted on 4th October 2024