Swinburne Sarawak hosts its third SDG carnival

KUCHING (Oct 24): Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak hosted its third Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Carnival yesterday, featuring a range of activities, booths, and presentations centred around sustainability and community well-being.

The carnival showcased various SDG-focused projects such as a blood donation drive in collaboration with Borneo Medical Centre, and the ‘Donate Your Waste’ initiative with Trienekens.

Students from SMK Sungai Tapang and SMK Padungan were invited to participate in the carnival and engage in SDG-themed games and challenges at interactive booths set up by external partners and student societies from Swinburne Sarawak.

The opening ceremony featured a keynote address by Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap, who underscored the growing importance of food security in today’s world.

“Food security is not just about quantity; it is about quality, accessibility and sustainability.

“Our mission is to ensure that no one, regardless of their background, faces the dire consequences of hunger,” Yap said.

He noted that while Malaysia is blessed with agricultural diversity, food insecurity still affects certain marginalised communities.

“In Sarawak, we see areas where food insecurity remains a real issue, even within just minutes from wealthy neighbourhoods,” Yap explained, pointing out the disparity in his Kota Sentosa constituency.

He also emphasised the vital role of youth in shaping a sustainable future, stating, “It is the younger generation that will come up with the solutions for tomorrow.”

“This carnival gives a platform for our younger generation to showcase their innovation and ideas for a sustainable future.”

Other highlights of the opening ceremony included talks by Dr Annie Chai on cancer research Malaysia, a presentation on hydroponic with IoTas a sustainable solution for soilless farming, and SDG sampling in Sarawak’s rural areas.

The carnival is sponsored by the Ministry of Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development, Sarawak Metro, Sarawak Energy, Trinekens and Mydin, underscoring a collaborative effort to promote sustainable practices within the community.

Also present were Swinburne Sarawak deputy Pro-Vice Chancellor for Academic Prof Sim Kwan Yong, and deputy Pro-Vice Chancellor for Research Prof Ida Fatimawati Adi Badiozaman.