KUCHING (Sept 19): The Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) Sarawak paid a courtesy visit to the Sarawak State Education Department (JPNS) with the presence of representatives from the Ministry of Education, Innovation and Talent Development (MEITD) explore potential collaboration on the PALS Club initiatives.

The meeting aimed to identify strategic approaches to promote the PALS Club, with the goal of achieving 100% club registration across Sarawak by 2027. Positive discussion outcomes include assurance from JPNS and MEITD in providing full support and assistance to speed up the registration of PALS Club among 1460 schools in Sarawak State by 2027, possible collaboration in organizing state-level events to promote environmental stewardship, sharing or improvisation of modules in adherence to the latest educational curriculum, and more in the future.  

Director of Sarawak State Education Department, Yang Berusaha Tuan Omar Bin Mahli, suggested a meeting with the district education office (PPD) to enhance awareness regarding the role of Environmental Lover Clubs (PALS) in promoting environmental stewardship among children and teachers at schools. The importance of having environmental education at a young age is highlighted. As mentioned, the subject of "Alam dan Manusia" will be introduced to students who enroll in primary one and primary two. 

In attendance were Controller of Environmental Quality, Datu Jack anak Liam, Deputy Controller (Operation) Penny Sumok, Head of the Environmental Education Division, Marinni binti Haji Khir, Environmental Control Officer, Ng Kai Ning and Senior Assistant Environmental Control Officer, Madam Enderawati.

The discussion marks the beginning of a closer working relationship between NREB, JPNS and MEITD, ensuring that environmental education initiatives benefit all schools across Sarawak, ultimately supporting the shared vision of a Green, Clean, and Healthy Sarawak.

Reported by Ng Kai Ning