UNAIR NEWS 51动漫 (UNAIR) has once again demonstrated its commitment to supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through the BBK 7 International program in Malaysia. The community service activity took place on Sunday (Feb 8, 2025) in Kampung Tanjung Langsat, Johor Bahru. The program adopted a gastrodiplomacy approach by utilizing blue butterfly pea flowers as an innovative product based on local potential.
The program, titled 淭elang Biru Kampung Tanjung Langsat, is designed as a participatory learning space between students and local residents. Students provide education on the benefits of blue butterfly pea flowers along with training on cultivation and processing. The activity contributes to SDGs 4 (Quality Education) and SDGs 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure).
Introduces Blue Ocean Drink
Students explained cultivation techniques, starting from seed selection, plant maintenance, to harvesting. Residents also practiced processing the flowers into an innovative beverage called Blue Ocean Drink. The drink utilizes anthocyanin pigment, which produces a natural blue color and turns purple when mixed with lemon juice.
Program Coordinator Shafa emphasizesd that the initiative does not merely focus on technical training. 淲e want this program to be sustainable and truly beneficial for the community as a creative economic opportunity, Shafa said.
淕astrodiplomacy is a relevant approach to strengthen local identity while building cultural relations between Indonesia and Malaysia, Shafa added.
Most residents of Kampung Tanjung Langsat operate small food businesses with potential to develop the product further. Students observed that this simple innovation has strong visual appeal, making it easier to market.
Digital Brand Kampung Story Lab
In addition to the training, students introduced a storytelling-based branding concept integrated with the Digital Brand Kampung Story Lab program. The approach aimsed to build Kampung Tanjung Langsat檚 identity as a creative and innovative coastal village. 淲e do not only share knowledge, but also build product narratives to create added value, Shafa explained.
The activity also involveds a collaboration with students from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM). The collaboration strengthens cross-border exchange of ideas and experiences. The program becomes a collaborative platform that enhances academic relations and friendship between the two countries.
Through BBK 7 International, UNAIR reaffirms its role as an institution actively engaged in global community empowerment. The program not only improves community literacy and skills but also encourages innovation in local products based on natural resources. Therefore, the initiative serves as a concrete contribution to supporting sustainable SDGs achievement.
Author: Rizma Elyza
Editor: Yulia Rohmawati
