Rainforest trip sprouts climate awareness
KOTA KINABALU: Climate change education took a meaningful turn for 40 youths as they stepped into the rainforest during a three-day experiential learning camp in Sandakan.
The Youth Camp on Climate Change 2025 brings together participants aged 17 to 25 from five institutions: Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Politeknik Sandakan, Kolej Komuniti Sandakan, Kolej Vokasional Sandakan II and Kolej Komuniti Lahad Datu.
Participants were randomly assigned into five groups and given tasks related to climate issues.
These tasks will be presented at the end of the camp to encourage teamwork, critical thinking and leadership skills.
About 70% of the activities are held outdoors, with support from members of the Sabah Environmental Education Network, including the Sabah Wildlife Department and the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, along with researchers from the Forest Research Centre in Sepilok.
To deepen understanding of climate impacts, the youths also visited a landfill operated by the Sandakan Municipal Council, gaining insights into the relationship between waste management and environmental sustainability.
The event was launched by deputy permanent secretary of the state youth and sports ministry Mary Paul Mijong Dagul, on behalf of Minister Datuk Ellron Angin, at the Rainforest Discovery Centre yesterday.
It is organised by the Sabah Forestry Department and sponsored by the state Youth and Sports Ministry.
Mary said the camp was a reminder that learning can happen beyond the classroom.
'Knowledge can also be shared in the field, amidst nature, and within communities struggling with the impacts of climate change.
'Camps like this give youths the chance to see, understand and take action,' she said.
Also present was Forest Research Centre head Dr Arthur Chung, who represented chief conservator of forests Datuk Frederick Kugan.
According to Chung, climate change is not just an issue for experts, adding that it is a matter that everyone should understand.
The organisers said early education is vital to building future leaders who can respond to climate challenges and drive long-term solutions.
By empowering participants to share what they have learnt with their peers and communities, the programme aims to expand its reach beyond the three-day camp.
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