“SMALL action, big impact. Let’s do it, Penang!”
That was the cry of the 73 representatives from various departments, agencies, hotels, education institutions, factories, non-governmental organisations and local councils as a video was recorded of them taking part in the press conference of Earth Hour 2023 Movement with Penang Green Council at Tech Dome Penang today.
State Environment and Welfare Committee chairman Phee Boon Poh said Penang would be joining the world to celebrate Earth Hour by switching off non-essential lights for 60 minutes on March 25 from 8.30pm to 9.30pm.
“I have been asked by many whether by switching off non-essential lights for only an hour in a year would make any difference.
“Yes, you can make a substantial difference in energy consumption and can help reduce the effect of global warming on this planet.
“According to saving-light-bulbs.co.uk, around 19% of all electricity generated was used for lighting purposes which is a very significant proportion.
“Your small action will bring great impact, an hour of darkness will brighten up our future. I urge everyone to join us this year by switching off their lights for 60 minutes during Earth Hour to support this global movement,” Phee said in his speech.
He said every year, the Penang Green Council (PGC), a state agency, celebrates and supports Earth Hour as its small gesture to conserve Mother Earth.
PGC, he said, would be taking the lead to encourage all premises in Penang such as shopping malls, hotels, and factories and all Penangites to take part in this global movement by switching off our lights for 60 minutes together.
“This is not just an action but it is an important movement to raise awareness of the current issues faced by our planet and start acting today!
“It is crucial for us to put our nature and environment at the center of our recovery efforts from Covid-19 to future-proof our economies and for the benefit of our people,” Phee added.
He also said police would increase their surveillance during Earth Hour.
Also present were PCG general manager Josephine Tan Mei Ling, Tech Dome Penang chief executive officer Khoo Boo Wooi and Penang Women’s Development Corporation chief executive officer Ong Bee Leng.
According to Tan, PGC would be having a double celebration on March 25 at Straits Quay to celebrate Earth Hour and Earth Day.
Although Earth Day falls on April 22 every year, it will be celebrated together with Earth Hour on March 25 in Penang as Hari Raya Adilfitri is likely to fall on April 22 this year.
“Come and join us, not just to switch off the lights for an hour, but it can also be practised as a daily lifestyle. We have lined up a series of activities,” Tan said.
She added that Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow would attend the Earth Hour celebration at Straits Quay and switch off the Straits Quay lights at 8.30pm.
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix by Wong Sook Shyan