In a powerful blend of spirituality, environmental action, and academic service, IAHN Gde Pudja Mataram carried out its Community Service (Pengabdian kepada Masyarakat Mandiri) program under the theme “Marine Biota Conservation in Supporting the 2026 SDGs Program” on Saturday, February 14, 2026, at Pantai Batu Bolong.
The initiative brought together lecturers, students, staff, and representatives of Hindu organizations from across Lombok in a shared mission to protect marine life and strengthen commitment to global sustainability.
The program began with a beach clean-up, transforming concern into concrete action as participants worked side by side to restore the shoreline. The activity then continued with a solemn joint prayer, symbolizing harmony between humans, nature, and the Divine values that lie at the heart of the institution’s service philosophy.
The program was chaired by Ni Luh Putu Anom Pancawati, M.Ak., whose leadership ensured the event ran smoothly and meaningfully.
In her remarks, Dr. Ni Luh Sinar Ayu Ratna Dewi, SS., M.Ag as the Head of LPPM underscored that conserving marine ecosystems is a tangible contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals initiated by the United Nations, particularly Goal 14: Life Below Water.
He emphasized that universities play a crucial role as agents of change, bridging knowledge, faith, and real-world action for a sustainable future.
The Rector of IAHN Gde Pudja Mataram, Prof. Dr. Ir. I Wayan Wirata, S.Ag., S.E., M.Si., M.Pd., warmly praised the initiative, highlighting that the program reflects the timeless wisdom of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, the belief that the entire world is one family. Through collective care for the environment, he noted, humanity nurtures not only nature but also global solidarity.
Adding educational depth to the event, Mahendra Irawan from Yayasan Pecinta Penyu Mapak Indah delivered an engaging session on sea turtle conservation. His presentation raised awareness about the urgent need to protect marine biodiversity and inspired participants to become guardians of the ocean.
Before the highlight of the program, the committee presented a certificate of appreciation to Mahendra Irawan in recognition of his unwavering dedication to environmental conservation.
The event then reached its most symbolic moment with the release of birds, fish, and sea turtle hatchlings (tukik) into their natural habitat, an emotional gesture representing hope, renewal, and responsibility toward the planet.
Conducted in an atmosphere that was orderly, warm, and filled with togetherness, the program showcased how academic communities can unite knowledge, faith, and action for the common good.
Through this initiative, IAHN Gde Pudja Mataram reaffirmed its commitment to serving society not only through education but also through meaningful contributions to environmental sustainability—proving that real change begins when compassion is translated into action.
BY:(DKS)