Empowering Community and Building Sustainable Leadership through Service-Learning: A Community-Based Heritage Model at the Santubong Archaeological Site, Sarawak

Abstract

This study examines the SSF2193 Introduction to Borneo Archaeology course at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), which is implemented through Service-Learning Malaysia – University for Society (SULAM). Conducted at the Santubong Archaeological Site, the project introduces a Community-Based Heritage Model that integrates community empowerment with sustainable leadership. By embedding the initiative within the academic curriculum, students participated in experiential heritage activities, including mock excavations, oral history documentation, and cultural exhibitions. The project emphasizes community empowerment and sustainable leadership, aligning with national aspirations and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 4, SDG 11, SDG 17). Its innovative approach moves beyond conventional classroom learning by fostering leadership, collaboration, and problem-solving skills within authentic community contexts. A Pentahelix collaboration was applied, involving government, academia, industry, community, and the environment, creating a balanced and inclusive partnership. Opportunities for commercialization, particularly in edu-tourism and cultural products, were also identified to sustain community benefits. The outcomes demonstrate dual impact: students developed competencies for future leadership in heritage and sustainability, while local communities gained recognition and agency in safeguarding their cultural legacy. The model highlights scalability and replicability, reinforcing the role of universities as catalysts for social transformation in heritage preservation.