Universiti Kuala Lumpur Malaysian Spanish Institute (UniKL MSI) strengthened its student leadership and sustainability impact when its teams secured 1st runner-up and fifth place at the Program Eksplorasi Kita Pengguna 2026 in Perlis.
Organised by the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) Perlis, in collaboration with KPDN Kedah and UiTM Arau, the programme brought together 20 inter-varsity teams in an exploration-style competition focused on consumer rights, fair trade practices and current economic issues.
UniKL MSI was represented by two teams, each comprising four students.
Competing under the programme slogan, “Suara Kita, Kuasa Kita”, the students were tested through interactive challenges that required critical thinking, teamwork and awareness of real-life consumer issues.
Their strong performance reflected not only academic knowledge but also the ability to apply that knowledge in practical situations involving consumer protection, cost-of-living literacy, responsible purchasing and market fairness.
The achievement supports UniKL’s wider commitment to producing industry-ready, socially responsible and future-focused graduates.
It also strengthens the university’s visibility in areas aligned with global higher education ranking narratives, including student development, community engagement, sustainability education and Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) impact.
The programme is closely linked to the United Nations SDG, particularly SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, as it promotes awareness of ethical consumption, informed decision-making and responsible market behaviour.
It also supports SDG 4: Quality Education by extending learning beyond the classroom, and SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions through the promotion of consumer rights, transparency and legal protection.
Through the university student consumer movement, or Gerakan Pengguna Siswa, UniKL MSI students are positioned as young ambassadors who can help share accurate and practical information with the wider community.
Their role is important in empowering everyday consumers to understand their rights, avoid deceptive trade practices and make better financial decisions, especially amid rising concerns over cost of living.
