International Islamic University Malaysia, Malaysia

Community Action to Save Strays at the International Islamic University Malaysia (CATSS@IIUM)

Education is the primary agent of transformation towards progression in motivation, justification, and social responsibilities. In tandem with our university’s goal towards transformative learning and humanising education, one of the key factors is embedding compassion through humane education within our education system. It encourages cognitive, affective, and behavioural growth through personal development of critical thinking, problem solving, perspective taking, and empathy as it relates to people, animals, the ecosystem, and the intersections among them.

The CATSS@IIUM project's main mission is to offer opportunities for integrating meaningful community engagement within a formal setting, which fosters civic responsibility, enriches student engagement within the curricula, and engages youth as assets and resources that contribute to the community and the society in positive ways. With the rapid global increase in animal abuse of the domestic and wildlife, this project promotes respect and compassion for living things and the environment, discourages violence, and provides the knowledge, skills, and values necessary for the society to become better citizens.

What the Judges Thought

The judges loved this project which they felt was unique, compassionate, and sought to significantly change people's attitudes to local animals. It helps grow and nurture our respect and understanding of nature. 

What it Means to Win

“The International Green Gown Awards is fast becoming the "Oscar Award" of Sustainability that everyone wants a piece of. To win it reaffirms our utmost commitment towards an equitable world for the everlasting survival of all - human and non-human - species.”

Dzulkifli Abdul Razak, Rector

Top 3 Learnings

1. We inculcate compassion, responsibility, respect, and values in our education system.
2. We generate effective learning models in the animal wellbeing system for other educational institutions to emulate.
3. We engage volunteerism to bring a sense of purpose in life which empowers the community.