KUCHING: Sarawak and Singapore have agreed to strengthen cooperation in environmental education for young people, focusing on student exchanges between primary and secondary schools.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the matter was discussed with Singapore’s Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong during a meeting yesterday (Oct 17).
He said the proposal came about as many young people in Singapore, which has limited natural forests, have never experienced wildlife or forest ecosystems up close.
“This morning, I met with Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong. He suggested closer ties to provide a way for the younger generation to learn about forests and its habitats.
“We agreed that primary and secondary school students from Singapore will visit Sarawak through a student exchange programme to learn about nature,” he said at the Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) Appreciation and Excellence Service Awards ceremony last night (Oct 17).
He said the initiative will not only enhance environmental awareness and knowledge among students but also allow SFC to share expertise and information with teachers and students from Singapore.
The programme will also include children of expatriates based in Singapore.
Abang Johari also proposed that Singapore grant more flight landing rights to Sarawak via AirBorneo to facilitate the exchange programme.
He expressed confidence that this interaction, not only with Singapore but also with other countries, will allow Sarawak to share its expertise and resources.
“This initiative can become a significant economic activity, enriching awareness while fostering economic collaboration between countries and us here in Sarawak,” he added.
