KUCHING: The state government has agreed in principle to provide incentives for schools that establish and participate in the Nature Lovers’ Club (PALS) programme under the Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB).
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the initiative is aimed at encouraging greater participation among schools while cultivating a culture of environmental stewardship from a young age.
Commending NREB for its efforts in promoting environmental education, he expressed hope that the programme would continue to expand and achieve its target of reaching approximately 1,400 schools throughout Sarawak.
“I hope you will achieve that 1,400 schools. That is why we are looking at providing incentive to the schools,” he said when officiating at the NREB Excellence and Service Awards Ceremony here last night (June 19).
Abang Johari revealed that NREB Controller of Environmental Quality Datuk Jack Liam had proposed providing financial assistance to schools that establish environmental clubs, a suggestion he said he supports in principle.
PALS is part of NREB’s efforts to strengthen environmental awareness and sustainability education among students.
“For those who start the club, we want to give them an incentive to fund their activities and inculcate that culture that we must look after our environment.
“Jack did mention it to me and I agree in principle with the proposal for us to provide assistance to schools that start environmental clubs,” he said.
While the amount of funding has yet to be determined, Abang Johari stressed that environmental awareness must be nurtured from childhood to ensure future generations continue to value and protect Sarawak’s natural environment.
Drawing on a well-known Malay proverb of “melentur buluh biarlah dari rebungnya”, he said environmental values are most effectively instilled at an early age.
“If we want to shape a person’s character, we must start when they are young. Likewise, if we want to cultivate environmental responsibility, we must begin from childhood,” he said.
He said schools play a critical role in shaping future citizens who understand the importance of environmental conservation and sustainable development.
He said students who are exposed to environmental activities through school clubs are more likely to carry those values with them as they progress through higher education and eventually enter the workforce.
“We want environmental awareness to start in primary and secondary schools. When they go on to university and later into society, they will already have that sense of responsibility to look after the environment,” he said.
Abang Johari also praised NREB for its role in promoting environmental awareness through community outreach and educational initiatives, describing the agency as an important partner in supporting the state’s environmental agenda.
