SLAW for a sustainable generation

KUCHING, Oct. 1: The Environmentally-Awarded Schools Program (SLAAS) is not just an environmental conservation initiative, but a part of state and national efforts to preserve the environment.

Deputy Prime Minister of Sarawak, Grandfather Amar Dr. Sim Kui Hian said that the approach through the programme is important in shaping awareness and sustainability practices among younger generations before being applied to families and local communities.

According to him, environmental education at school level can also foster creativity and interest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), as well as raise awareness of the development of new sustainability-based industries.

"SLAAS is not just about the environment or environmental programs, but it's part of (the process) in rebuilding states and nations. It educates society through creativity, through lifestyles and builds sustainability through science.

"It (also) is not just the responsibility of government, everyone can play their role and do their part", he said.

He said this in his speech to the relevant program taking place at St. Joseph, today.

I'm going to see Dr. Sim explains that the formation of environmental habits should begin at an early age, including through practices such as reducing plastic use, waste isolation, recycling and water and energy conservation.

He also linked the importance of sustainability education to climate change challenges such as El Nino, drought and water scarcity that require communities to understand its impact on daily life.

He said environmental sustainability also opens up space for industrial development and new opportunities, including in the areas of Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage (CCUS), green energy and renewable energy.

In this regard, he said, more younger generations need to be exposed to knowledge in science and technology to support the future development of a sustainable sector.