MOTHER Earth deserves the same care and concern which we give to our mothers, says State Housing and Environment Committee chairman Datuk Seri Sundarajoo Somu.
Sundarajoo said it is the duty of every individual to love and protect Mother Earth, who has given us so much and nurtured our growth.
“We have long exploited Mother Earth, and now it is time for us to give back what we have taken from her.
“Each and everyone of us, has a great responsibility to protect her for the sake of our future generations,” Sundarajoo said during his speech at the ‘Earth Day Celebration’ at Komtar yesterday.
Earth Day is celebrated globally on April 22 each year to raise awareness about environmental protection. This year, it is observed under the theme ‘Our Power, Our Planet’.
The event was organised by the Penang Green Council.
According to Sundarajoo, who is also the Perai assemblyman, more than one million trees were successfully planted across the state last year to mark Earth Day.
“The state government is taking steps to care for the environment. One of the efforts is the ‘Penang No Plastic Bag Everyday Campaign 2025’, which encourages people to stop using plastic bags daily.
“Another step is a new rule that all affordable housing projects must follow Green Building Index (GBI) standards to make them more eco-friendly and energy-efficient,” he added.
Meanwhile, Penang Green Council general manager Josephine Tan highlighted the importance of reducing energy usage.
“This year’s theme reflects an urgent and universal call, to transition to clean, renewable energy and embrace energy efficiency as key solutions in the fight against climate change.
“Our objectives today are clear. First, we aim to raise awareness about renewable energy sources and their role in building a sustainable world.
“Second, we want to showcase the creativity and innovation of our bright young minds through the ‘Penang Green Innovator’ competition.
“Lastly, we hope to educate and empower individuals on the importance of energy efficiency in reducing environmental impact,” Tan said.
Tan also shared the importance of preserving the environment, so it can be passed on to the next generation in good condition, rather than leaving it in a critical state.
The ‘Penang Green Innovator’ competition successfully brought together 40 talented students from primary and secondary schools across Penang.
At the celebration, the top five finalists from each category (primary and secondary),were awarded for their innovative projects centered around renewable energy and energy efficiency.
The winners received cash prizes of up to RM3,100 and certificates as a recognition to their ideas and efforts. Various activities such as educational booths, e-waste collection drive, and workshops were also held.
Riiicycle, CAP, and Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB), Tech Dome and the Consumer Association of Penang (CAP) and Techom Metal Sdn. Bhd were the partners for the event.
Random clicks at the event :-
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Muhamad Amir Irsyad Omar