The role of university social responsibility during Covid-19 outbreaks: Analysis of Indonesia and Malaysia

Abstract

Discussions related to social responsibility became one of the important topics during the pandemic because many people were affected from economic to social aspects. Therefore, the university's contribution to society through the University Social Responsibility program is considered important and significant to reduce the impact caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aims to analyze the USR program's form and benefits for COVID-19-affected communities, examining actions of Indonesian and Malaysian universities. Addressing research gaps, it offers valuable insights, comparative analysis, and practical recommendations for Southeast Asian universities and policymakers, enriching the discourse on University Social Responsibility.This study selected two universities as case studies, namely Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta (UMY) and Universiti Sains of Malaysia (USM).  During the Covid-19 pandemic, these two universities implemented USR according to the triple bottom line, especially in the social field. The research methodology employed for this article encompasses qualitative techniques, primarily through in-depth interviews and the collection of secondary data, which also encompasses website evaluations and media clippings. The results showed that UMY and USM implemented USR in the form of community empowerment in the fields of education, health, and technological innovation. Both universities created a community empowerment scheme by involving students, lecturers and other stakeholders to show their contribution in dealing with and solving community problems affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. These universities have always been oriented towards innovation, especially in the fields of education, research and community service. Innovation is significant because it can help increase skills and add value to the wider community and have an impact on sustainable development.