KUCHING: The air buzzed with excitement and purpose at SK Rakyat Jalan Haji Bolhassan as Year 4 Strategic Communication students from Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) wrapped up their EarthSOS: Our Planet, Our Future campaign on Jan 2.
Spearheaded by Programme Director Nivitha V Baskaran with guidance from Course Instructor and Advisor Dr Vimala Govindaraju, the campaign aimed to ignite a passion for sustainability among Primary 5 students.
These young learners were introduced to the 5R principles: Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Repurpose, and Recycle, equipping them with tools to make a tangible difference.
The closing ceremony was filled with activities that captured the essence of the campaign.
A compelling Public Service Announcement (PSA) video highlighted the urgency of combating climate change, while keynote speaker Dr. Mohd Farid Atan inspired students to embrace simple, actionable steps in their daily lives.
He reminded them that small changes, done consistently, could lead to significant impact.
Interactive activities brought the 5R principles to life, as students turned egg cartons into chairs and crafted banners from recycled materials.
These hands-on tasks showcased how sustainability can be practical, creative, and enjoyable.
A reflection session followed, where students and teachers shared their newfound enthusiasm for eco-friendly habits.
Some even pledged to take the lessons learned home to their families and communities.
Programme Director Nivitha noted that leading the campaign had taught her that sustainability is not about grand gestures but about small, everyday changes.
She said that adopting the 5R principles has shown her how conscious consumption can drive real change, adding that “every small step we take creates ripples of transformation.”
She also shared a lighthearted moment from the campaign when a teammate, known for hoarding sticky notes, laughed at the suggestion of switching to a reusable whiteboard.
“She joked, ‘What if I forget where the whiteboard is?’ Now, she uses digital tools and has significantly reduced her paper waste. It’s these personal shifts that make a lasting impact,” she said.
The EarthSOS campaign left a lasting legacy by fostering a deeper understanding of climate change and sustainable practices.
The educational materials and experiences provided will serve as ongoing resources, ensuring the school community continues to champion sustainability.
The students of UNIMAS have demonstrated that meaningful change begins with purpose, creativity, and small, consistent actions.
Their efforts have inspired young minds and laid the foundation for a greener, more sustainable future—one step at a time.
