1. Name
Affan Nasaruddin
2. Country of Residence
Malaysia
3. Organization Name
Water Warriors, Universiti Malaya
4. Name of Target Lake/Lake Information: The basic information of the lake.
Varsity Lake Universiti Malaya. Varsity Lake, or Tasik Varsiti, is one of the most significant natural landmarks within Universiti Malaya. Although man-made, the lake has long been considered a heritage feature of the campus, existing even before the university was officially established. Historically, it served as a central hub for campus life, where students gathered for recreational activities such as duck-catching competitions, boat races, and even symbolic initiation ceremonies. In its early days, the lake was often compared in scale and vibrancy to Kuala Lumpur’s Lake Gardens, reflecting its importance not only as a water body but also as a cultural and social space for the university community. Over time, however, Varsity Lake experienced ecological decline. Problems such as pollution, sedimentation, algae blooms, and the spread of invasive fish species diminished both its beauty and ecological health. By the late 2000s, the lake was heavily eutrophic, with poor water quality and limited biodiversity. Recognizing the importance of restoring this campus icon, Universiti Malaya launched Project ReviVaL (Revive Varsity Lake) in 2013. The initiative, led by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development) together with the Estates Department, the Sports Centre, and the Water Warriors volunteer group, adopted a three-phase approach: research, rehabilitation, and revitalization. In the research phase, students and researchers conducted water quality monitoring and citizen science activities to identify the sources of pollution. This was followed by physical interventions such as dredging, drainage improvements, installation of rip-rap to control runoff, and the creation of a mini wetland to naturally filter incoming water. Finally, in an effort to reintroduce life, the project involved restocking the lake with native fish species and releasing ducks and geese, restoring both its ecological balance and its cultural charm. The results were remarkable. Within a few years, water quality improved dramatically, with studies reporting nearly a 100 percent recovery according to Malaysia’s Water Quality Index between 2009 and 2014. Today, Varsity Lake is once again thriving as a living ecosystem. Its clean waters now support recreational activities such as kayaking and fishing, managed by the Sports Centre, while the surrounding jogging track makes it a popular spot for exercise and leisure. More importantly, the lake has become an outdoor classroom, hosting environmental education programs and sustainability initiatives led by the Water Warriors. In its current form, Varsity Lake stands as more than just a scenic attraction. It embodies Universiti Malaya’s commitment to sustainability, community engagement, and interdisciplinary learning. Once on the brink of decline, the lake is now a living laboratory, a recreational haven, and a symbol of environmental stewardship. Varsity Lake thus continues to inspire not only the university community but also wider society, proving that with collective effort, degraded ecosystems can be revived and cherished as vital parts of our shared heritage.
5. Purpose of the Activity: Specific goals and objectives.
World Lake Day 2025
6. Activity Description: e.g., water quality testing, monitoring, cleanup efforts, environmental education.
Water quality monitoring, cleanup, biodiversity documentation, lake advocacy
7. Number of Participants: The number of youth involved
80
8. Outcomes and Impact: Data or reports obtained as a result of the activity
Reflection: https://padlet.com/ikazainodin/reflection-wall-day-2-36625abrlvi7x4y1
9. Sustainability and Future Outlook: funding sources and collaborating Organizations
Funding from the Universiti Malaya
10. Please share the link to the video introducing your activities.