In an era where environmental sustainability and social responsibility are no longer optional but essential, many forward-thinking enterprises are leading the way in integrating these values into their core operations. For graduates stepping into the professional world, these companies offer not only employment opportunities but also a chance to contribute to meaningful change.
One such example is Urban Sea Enviro, a Malaysian company established in 2022 that is redefining the cleaning industry through its commitment to eco-friendly practices and community engagement.
A Vision for Cleaner, Healthier Spaces
Urban Sea Enviro's journey began with a profound commitment to creating cleaner, healthier living and working environments. The founders—Jeyraj Maran (IT industry), Kumaresan Palaeya (Aviation/Construction industries), Sashwindh Nair (Security services), and Thanesh Veerappan (Athlete/Sport science)—came together from different industries and ventured into this new field, inspired by the growing need for reliable, high-quality cleaning services that align with environmental stewardship.
Jeyraj Maran, Co-founder and Director of Urban Sea Enviro, shares, "We saw an opportunity to not only provide exceptional cleaning services but also to make a positive impact on the environment and the communities we serve. Our goal was to create a company that stands for quality and sustainability."
Their core values—sustainability, quality, integrity, innovation, community, and customer focus—drive every aspect of their operations, ensuring that their impact extends beyond mere cleanliness. “Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do,” Jeyraj explains. “We believe that every small step towards eco-friendly practices contributes to a larger positive change.”
Building a Diverse and Inclusive Workforce
Diversity and inclusion are at the heart of Urban Sea Enviro’s workforce. The company prides itself on maintaining a team that reflects various backgrounds, cultures, and experiences, including individuals from marginalized and underserved communities. Their workforce includes employees aged between 21 and 62 from countries such as Nepal and Indonesia, creating a rich tapestry of perspectives and ideas.
By participating in government programs like Rekalibrasi Tenaga Kerja, Urban Sea Enviro provides legal employment opportunities for foreign workers, helping them secure a stable livelihood and a brighter future. “We believe in giving everyone a fair chance,” Jeyraj states. “Our diverse team brings a wealth of ideas and perspectives, which is invaluable to our success.”
For graduates looking to make a difference, Urban Sea Enviro offers robust training and development programs. These initiatives ensure that employees are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the industry.
Weekly training sessions, collaborations with industry partners, and in-house trainers all contribute to a culture of continuous improvement and professional growth. “Our training programs are designed to empower our employees,” Jeyraj explains. “We want them to feel confident and capable in their roles, and to see a clear path for career advancement.”
Embracing Eco-Friendly Practices & Engaging with the Community
Urban Sea Enviro’s commitment to sustainability is evident in their eco-friendly products and practices. By incorporating biodegradable cleaning agents, reusable microfiber cloths, and energy-efficient equipment, they significantly reduce their environmental footprint.
Their goals to cut chemical usage, conserve water, and eliminate plastic waste demonstrate a proactive approach to environmental conservation. “By the end of this year, we aim to decrease our use of hard chemicals by 50%, implement water-saving techniques to reduce usage by 30%, and cut down on plastic waste by 100% through the use of recyclable products,” Jeyraj emphasizes.
Beyond their business operations, Urban Sea Enviro actively participates in community service and social responsibility initiatives. From local clean-up projects to pro bono services for schools and religious institutions, their efforts to give back to the community are commendable.
By fostering a culture of environmental responsibility and sustainable habits, they aim to create a ripple effect that benefits future generations. “We are committed to making a positive impact, not just through our services, but also through our actions in the community,” Jeyraj notes.
Meanwhile, the company recently launched the Retiree Internship Program to leverage the expertise of retired professionals to enhance their operations and promote environmental sustainability. Retirees engage in roles such as marketing and community outreach, helping to educate the public on eco-friendly practices.
The program fosters intergenerational collaboration, economic empowerment, and continuous skills development, offering retirees a sense of purpose and additional income. By integrating retirees' experience with their sustainability goals, Urban Sea Enviro aims to create a positive social impact and reduce their environmental footprint.
Partnering for a Greener Future
A notable aspect of Urban Sea Enviro's impact is their collaboration with Multimedia University (MMU) through the eCadet Programme. This partnership supports alumni engagement and career development, offering students practical experience, mentorship, and entrepreneurial training.
Such initiatives not only enhance the skills of graduates but also prepare them to contribute effectively to sustainable and socially responsible businesses. “Our partnership with MMU is a key part of our strategy to nurture the next generation of entrepreneurs and industry leaders,” Jeyraj says.
Additionally, collaborating with CleanPlanet NZ, a leader in eco-friendly cleaning solutions based in Auckland, New Zealand, Urban Sea Enviro leverages cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices to enhance their services.
Advice for Aspiring Graduates
For graduates eager to pursue careers that align with their values, Urban Sea Enviro offers valuable advice. Jeyraj Maran, Director of Urban Sea Enviro, emphasizes the importance of staying committed to one’s principles, continuously learning, and embracing innovation.
"In today's rapidly evolving job market, it's crucial for graduates to not only seek out opportunities that align with their skills but also with their values. By prioritizing integrity and community, you can carve out a career path that is both fulfilling and impactful," he advises.
“Remember, every step you take towards sustainability and social responsibility, no matter how small, makes a difference.”
