On October 28, 2023, I had the honour of leading a transformative initiative under the Integrated Sustainability & Urban Creativity Centre (ISUC) at Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) — an event titled "Transforming Food Waste into Cash." This project was not only about raising awareness; it was about empowering the younger generation with hands-on skills to reduce food waste and unlock entrepreneurial potential.
Group photo with PKKTB, SISA, TLFP after the event
Group photo with PKKTB, SISA, TLFP after the event
Organized in collaboration with HcBites Creative Solutions, Soroptimist International Club of Shah Alam, and The Lost Food Project (TLFP), this event brought together a diverse team of changemakers and sustainability advocates. We were especially proud to host 15 enthusiastic young participants, aged 13 to 15, from the Tuanku Bainun Children's Creative Centre (PKKTB).
Ms. Wong May Chew teaching PKKTB students how to turn overripe fruits and surplus vegetables into delicious homemade jams and pickles.
Ms. Wong May Chew teaching PKKTB students how to turn overripe fruits and surplus vegetables into delicious homemade jams and pickles.
One of the highlights was a cooking demonstration and workshop led by the talented Master Chef Ms. Wong May Chew. Participants learned how to transform overripe fruits and surplus vegetables into delicious jams and pickles — a powerful example of how sustainability can also mean opportunity. Through this session, they gained not only culinary skills but also insight into how innovation can turn waste into value — quite literally turning food waste into cash.

As the Project Coordinator Team Leader, it was incredibly fulfilling to witness the energy and creativity of these young minds. Their engagement reminded all of us why community involvement and youth empowerment are critical in driving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) — particularly SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth.

We were also grateful for the presence and support of Dr. Stephen Poon Tai Fook, Head of Research at ISUC, alongside our dedicated student committee team: Sai Htoo Myat Naing, Hassan Massod, Adiba Chowdhury, and myself. Our combined efforts brought this vision to life and further reinforced ISUC’s mission to inspire real-world solutions through sustainable thinking and creativity.

This event marks another milestone in ISUC’s journey of promoting environmental stewardship and practical education. It’s our hope that by equipping youths with sustainable skills and entrepreneurial insight, we are nurturing not just future leaders — but future solution makers.

Together, let’s continue turning challenges into opportunities — and waste into worth.