AS electricity consumption remains largely inefficient, the need to instil energy-conscious habits is becoming increasingly critical. Educating the next generation to embrace energy-efficient habits is key to paving the way for a more sustainable future.
To drive awareness and foster sustainable energy practices, Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) in collaboration with Star Media Group Berhad (SMG) introduced the “Powering The Future” school engagement series to educate local students and youth on energy conservation, aiming to cultivate energy leaders of the future.
The series provided students with an in-depth understanding of the energy sector, current methods of energy production, sustainable energy practices and the importance of transitioning to renewable energy sources.
It is also part of the National Malaysia Energy Literacy Programme (MELP) launched in 2023, which aims to enhance public understanding of the energy sector, the importance of energy transition into renewable energy sources, and the role of environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles in the energy industry, as part of achieving global sustainability.
Last year, the series engaged 10 primary and secondary schools across the Klang Valley. This year, the series expanded to cover 60 schools in Peninsular Malaysia, starting with Selangor before moving to Negri Sembilan, Melaka, Perak, Johor and Penang.
Guided by facilitators and trainers, the series included engaging workshops and interactive educational sessions related to energy efficiency, centred around the principles of Awareness, Application, Advocacy and Adaptation.
The activities and workshops included tasking students with designing an energy-efficient home by identifying the most cost-effective and energy-efficient household appliances, based on the knowledge and tips they learnt.
In total, this year’s series reached out to 4,545 school students across Peninsular Malaysia, comprising 2,276 primary school students and 2,269 secondary school students.
TNB said in a press statement, “We want to ensure a future, not for us, but for our children and their descendants, leaving behind a good legacy for them to follow. Children are the best advocates and by exposing them from a young age, we hope they can retain these values as they grow older and that these sessions become common practice at home.
“We believe the youth are the future decision-makers in ensuring Malaysia’s energy efficiency and smart lifestyle transition.”
Reflecting on the series’ success across six states and 60 schools in Peninsular Malaysia, TNB and SMG are committed to continuing their efforts in empowering youth to adopt sustainable energy habits.
By fostering greater awareness and encouraging practical applications of energy efficiency, the initiative aims to shape the next generation of environmental champions who will lead the charge towards a more sustainable future.