UNIMAS, through its Institute of Sustainable and Renewable Energy (ISuRE), played a pivotal role in the National Climate Governance Summit (NCGS) 2024 by hosting the Low Carbon Living Workshop on 12 September 2024. Held at the Central Teaching Facilities, this event united students, lecturers, and industry experts to equip them with the tools and knowledge needed to become proactive “Low Carbon Warriors.” Notably, students from Pusat Pengajian Pra-Universiti (PPPU) also actively participated, bringing youthful energy and fresh perspectives to the discussions.
Esteemed speakers such as Professor Ts. Dr. Shanti Faridah Salleh, Dr. Florianna Lendai Anak Micheal Mulok, Dr. Wahyu Meka, and Mr. Rudzaimeir Malek addressed the urgent need for sustainable practices. Prof. Shanti introduced the UNIMAS Low Carbon Campus Roadmap, emphasizing the critical role of youth, including those from PPPU, in driving Sarawak towards its net-zero emissions goal by 2050. Dr. Wahyu Meka highlighted emerging food technologies, focusing on sustainable practices like biomass processing using seaweed and sugarcane to reduce the carbon footprint in food production. Mr. Rudzaimeir Malek offered actionable advice on adopting low-carbon lifestyles in areas like housing, food, and transportation, underscoring that even small, everyday actions can significantly reduce carbon footprints.
Participants, including PPPU students, engaged in group discussions on sustainability topics, proposing practical solutions for promoting low-carbon practices. Guided by Dr. Florianna Lendai, these discussions encouraged students to take ownership of their ideas and solutions. The event culminated in a digital pledge led by Dr. Lennevey, where all participants, including those from PPPU, committed to adopting low-carbon habits, marking their transition from learners to “Low Carbon Warriors.”
Prof. Shanti closed the workshop by emphasizing the importance of youth leadership in combating climate change, reminding participants that “The future is in your hands.” The workshop successfully empowered a new generation of climate leaders, including PPPU students, ready to champion sustainability on campus and beyond. The Low Carbon Living Workshop at UNIMAS inspired participants to take action in promoting sustainability and reducing carbon emissions, equipping them with practical strategies and a renewed commitment to lead the charge towards a more sustainable future.