KUCHING: The Forest Department Sarawak marked Earth Day 2026 by hosting an environmental education visit for preschoolers at the Industrial Forest Research Centre (IFRC) Semengoh, aimed at instilling early awareness of conservation.
A total of 45 children aged between four and six from Tadika Bahagia, accompanied by 14 teachers, took part in the programme which emphasised hands-on, play-based learning to nurture interest in the environment.
The visit began with a demonstration of proper seedling-planting techniques conducted by the IFRC team led by Dr Pang Shek Ling, before the children were guided to plant their own seedlings in polybags.
Participants showed strong enthusiasm as they carried out the activity, with each child naming their seedling, reinforcing a sense of personal connection to nature.
The programme also included a leaf-stamping session, in which children created artwork using natural materials, encouraging creativity while strengthening their appreciation of the environment.
The department said such experiential learning approaches are key to fostering environmental responsibility from a young age.
The initiative forms part of broader Earth Day efforts to promote conservation awareness, particularly the importance of protecting forests and natural ecosystems.
The Forest Department Sarawak expressed appreciation to Tadika Bahagia for its participation and emphasised the importance of continued collaboration in cultivating environmentally conscious future generations.
“Early exposure to nature-based learning is essential in building awareness and appreciation for the environment, ensuring that future generations grow up with a strong sense of responsibility towards safeguarding the planet,” it said.
