By Christine T
KUCHING, Oct 27: Sarawak is looking to develop an environmental education module for schools and communities to turn sustainability lessons into practical action, as the State seeks to balance economic growth with environmental protection.
According to caretaker Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at the official opening of the Environmental Education Conference 2026 at Imperial Hotel Kuching today, environmental education must go beyond classroom knowledge to encourage critical thinking, responsible behaviour and practical solutions.
“The module can help young people understand environmental issues and put their learning into action,” he said in his speech, which was delivered by caretaker Deputy Premier and Second Minister for Natural Resources and Urban Development Sarawak, Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan
He said Sarawak must also ensure environmental education reaches children in rural and remote communities, giving every child the opportunity to understand environmental issues and help protect Sarawak’s natural heritage.
Abang Johari welcomed the proposed environmental education module, saying it could combine international perspectives with local environmental knowledge and experience.
He also encouraged international delegates, educational institutions, industry partners, and relevant agencies to contribute their expertise to develop the module and strengthen cooperation in environmental education.
In addition, Datu Jack Liam, Controller of Environmental Quality at the Natural Resources and Environment Board Sarawak (NREB), said the module was among the conference’s key outcomes and brought together 350 participants, including 35 international speakers and delegates.
He said the module would consolidate existing efforts, provide accessible and relevant learning materials, and guide subsequent phases of environmental education development in Sarawak.
Liam said NREB’s Kelab Pencinta Alam Sekitar (PALS Club), introduced in 1999, had expanded from 74 schools to 1,011 schools, with another 455 targeted for registration by the end of 2027.
He said environmental education, supported by collaboration among government agencies, schools, industries, and communities, is essential to preparing future generations to protect natural resources and support sustainable development. — DayakDaily
