KUCHING: Transport Minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin has commended Save the Earth From A to Z (ASEZ), an international volunteer group, for its commitment to environmental protection and youth-led volunteerism.
He said the responsibility to protect the Earth transcends borders, whether Korean, Malaysian or otherwise, as climate change affects all nations and communities.
Lee said this when receiving a courtesy visit from a six-member delegation of ASEZ at his office in Bangunan Baitulmakmur here Tuesday.
During the meeting, Lee also shared Sarawak’s ongoing efforts to address climate change through sustainable and low-carbon transportation initiatives.
He highlighted the Kuching Urban Transportation System (KUTS), which will feature hydrogen-powered Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART), as well as the deployment of 56 hydrogen-powered feeder buses under Phase One of the project, aimed at reducing carbon emissions and promoting cleaner urban mobility.
“The ministry continues to encourage greater public use of public transportation,” he said, citing the free Miri Smart Bus service as a positive example.
“Since its introduction more residents have opted to travel by bus, helping to ease traffic congestion while contributing to environmental sustainability,” he said.
Lee also noted that schools have played a role in promoting sustainable travel habits, with teachers bringing students to use public buses from a young age.
The meeting also saw an exchange of views on Sarawak’s sustainable public transport planning, with the minister listening to feedback and ideas shared by the university student volunteers, reaffirming the importance of engaging youth perspectives in shaping future transport policies.
ASEZ is involved in global initiatives related to environmental protection and human welfare, with volunteers from 175 countries.
Among its major global campaigns is “Zero Plastic 2040”, which aligns with international efforts to eliminate plastic pollution by 2040.
