Join UTM and RUB in Celebrating World Environment Day 2025: Don’t Miss the Insightful Forum!

JOHOR BAHRU, 5 June – To celebrate World Environment Day, an engaging online forum titled “Empowering People for the Planet: Local Solutions for Global Sustainability—Insights from Malaysia and Bhutan” took place. Hosted by the Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Water Security (IPASA), this event gathered participants from both Malaysia and Bhutan, creating a vibrant space for dialogue about sustainability.

Moderated by Professor Dr. Zainura Zainon Noor from IPASA, the forum featured four panelists: two from Malaysia and two from Bhutan. Malaysian representatives included Ms. Melissa Tan, a climate advocate and ambassador for EarthDay.org, and Associate Professor Dr. Choong Weng Wai, an expert in environmental behavior. From Bhutan, Professor Bhagat Suberi, a forestry expert, and Professor Chogyel Wangmo, who specializes in climate resilience, contributed their insights.

Throughout the discussions, various important themes emerged. The panelists acknowledged the need for local empowerment, education, and effective policy to tackle environmental issues. For instance, Bhutan’s efforts to protect its mountain ecosystems mirror Malaysia’s initiatives to conserve rivers. Recent data shows that local community engagement can significantly boost conservation outcomes—areas with active community involvement see a 20% increase in sustainability practices.

Experts stress that knowledge without action is not enough. Every individual can make a difference. Professor Choong highlighted the gap between awareness and behavior, noting that real change comes when people take action, no matter how small. This idea resonates especially in our current climate crisis, where every effort counts.

The forum wrapped up with an inspiring message: collaboration is essential. Bhutan and Malaysia share many environmental challenges. By working together and learning from each other, both nations can enhance their sustainability efforts. It’s a reminder of how partnerships can pave the way for innovative solutions to age-old problems.

This forum marks a new beginning for cooperation between Universiti Teknologi Malaysia and the Royal University of Bhutan. As they continue to engage, it’s hoped that they will inspire more grassroots initiatives and academic collaboration. Recordings from the forum are available on the official Facebook page of IPASA, encouraging further community participation in sustainability efforts: Watch here.

Source link