Enhancing Environmental Awareness Among Indonesian Migrant Workers in Malaysia through Digital Campaigns and Sustainable Training

Rizki Briandana; Nindyta Aisyah Dwityas; Achmad Jamil; Mohamad Saifudin Mohamad Saleh

Authors

Rizki Briandana Universitas Mercu Buana, Indonesia
Nindyta Aisyah Dwityas Institut Pariwisata Tedja Indonesia, Indonesia
Achmad Jamil Universitas Mercu Buana, Indonesia
Mohamad Saifudin Mohamad Saleh Universiti Sains Malaysia, Malaysia

Keywords:

environmental awareness, environmental communication, Indonesian migrant workers, digital media campaign, sustainable training

Abstract

Environmental awareness among Indonesian migrant workers (IMWs) in Malaysia remains low due to limited access to environmental information, education, and sustainable infrastructure. This condition contributes to environmental challenges such as poor waste management, pollution, and unsustainable consumption practices. This study aims to improve environmental awareness and encourage eco-friendly behavior among IMWs in Penang through digital campaigns and sustainable training. Using a Community-Based Research (CBR) approach, the program involved four stages: (1) needs assessment and collaboration with NGOs, academics, and government representatives, (2) implementation of digital campaigns via social media, (3) training and workshops on waste management, energy efficiency, and water conservation, and (4) evaluation and dissemination of results. The program engaged 30 participants and produced educational content in the form of infographics, short videos, podcasts, and webinars. The initiative was widely disseminated through Indonesian and Malaysian mass media, while the educational module was submitted for Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) registration and academic publication. The results indicate that digital communication strategies effectively raised awareness and fostered positive behavioral changes among migrant workers, despite challenges such as limited infrastructure and participants’ varied educational backgrounds. Collaboration among stakeholders enhanced program legitimacy and broadened its impact. This study concludes that digital-based environmental education is a viable model to empower migrant communities in adopting sustainable practices. It is recommended to replicate and scale this program in other regions with high IMW populations and to integrate long-term monitoring mechanisms.

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Author Biography

Rizki Briandana, Universitas Mercu Buana

Scopus Author ID: 57203516095

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