A convergent of innovation, inspiration, and dedication at Sunway University

25 September 2024

KUALA LUMPUR: Innovation, inspiration, and dedication converged at Sunway University as corporate leaders, non-governmental organizations, influencers, school children, special interest groups, and over 25,000 students gathered for a three-day festival in support of the United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Held from September 23 to 25 the event marked the 9th anniversary of the SDGs, which were launched in 2015, as part of the ongoing ‘Campus With A Conscience’ initiative.

The festival featured a vibrant array of activities, including daily flag parades, engaging performances, informative workshops, and a sustainable marketplace.

Notable highlights included corporate showcases from pioneering brands such as HP, Decathlon, Blueshark, Uniqlo, Origins, The Body Shop, and BloomThis, as well as a sustainable fashion show organized by Sunway College in collaboration with Stylo, the Fashion Design Technology Hub.

The event also welcomed a group of regional leaders, including representatives from UNICEF, the United Nations, the World Health Organisation, members of the European Union, and ambassadors from over 12 nations, all joining the enthusiastic visitors on campus.

The noteworthy occasion also received royal approval from Raja Muda of Selangor, Tengku Amir Shah Ibni Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Al-Haj, who visited the campus and enjoyed a live musical performance by members of the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra.

During the event, there was an e-waste collection where Sunway staff and students were able to environmentally dispose their unwanted electrical items. Since the start of the initiative, over 37,000 kg electrical waste has been collected.

Younger participants from schools across the country were invited to enjoy an interactive "Be A SDG Scout" trail map across the campus, learning new 17 SDG facts every step of their journey of enlightenment, helping to ensure the next generation will continue to carry the message of influence and action.

One of the most unique elements of this year's event was the Garden of Hope. In support of UNICEF Malaysia and flowered by BloomThis, this initiative encouraged the community to buy flower seeds from a vending machine, plant them, and contribute to the well-being of children in Malaysia.

All proceeds will be donated to UNICEF Malaysia, benefiting local underprivileged children. The vending machine was generously sponsored by Advanced Food Technologies (AFT).

Sunway University was also excited to collaborate with EU to launch the EU Pavilion, showcasing over eight dynamic booths that highlighted a wide array of EU-led initiatives in Malaysia. A standout feature of the pavilion was the "Experiential Room," offering visitors an immersive journey through the EU's rich history while envisioning a sustainable and innovative future.

The event was an overwhelming success and a great advert for Malaysia in the global world of sustainability. Professor Dato' Elizabeth Lee, Group Chief Executive Officer of Sunway Education said, "This event is a testament to the power of collective action. By coming together, we are raising awareness of pressing global issues and fostering a culture of sustainability within our community. It is about inspiring real change and ensuring our efforts today will lead to a more resilient and sustainable future for future generations."

"The European Union is proud to partner with Sunway University in advancing our shared commitment to the United Nations' SDGs. Sunway's dedication to sustainability aligns with the EU's 2030 Agenda," commented the EU while Post Malaysia stated that it was a wonderful opportunity for companies like Pos Malaysia to engage meaningfully with students from both universities and schools, as well as staff members, on the vital topic of sustainability. The event provided a unique platform for dialogue and interaction, allowing us to share our vision for a sustainable future."