YRE Symposium and Award Ceremony 2024 at Sunway University

The YRE Symposium launched with the talk from experts in the environmental reporting industry. The series of talks began with a presentation by Ms. Winnie Wong, who explored the power of environmental photography in sustainable marketing. Her session highlighted how impactful visuals can strengthen consumers’ emotional connections and engagement to eco-friendly brands– which she deemed crucial for these young reporters to apply for marketing strategy especially the environmental friendly branding.

The symposium ended with a talk from Mr. Irshad Mobarak, the Chief Advisor of The Datai Pledge. He captivated the audience with his talk on “Lessons from the Rainforest” and suggested for us to look for the environmental solutions embodied by the rainforest ecosystems. He also emphasised that nature produces no waste and we should be mindful of it, saying:
“Live within your means as much as possible. Save, spend what you have and do not go beyond what you need. Spend your children’s future.”

Associate Professor Dr. Izian Idris, Head of the Department of Marketing Strategy & Innovation at Sunway University continued the session with a welcoming address– encouraging the students to lead in the environmental efforts. She was also appreciative of the efforts of launching the YRE symposium, stating:
“I think we have a very good response from the students and I’m very happy that my team is helping a lot with this, especially Dr. Munerah. Sunway University is looking forward to extending this competition every year.”

The symposium concluded with the much-anticipated YRE Award Ceremony, where distinguished guests, including Datuk Dr. Mahadi Mohamad, Director of Green Growth Asia Foundation, and Dato’ Sri Mustapa Mohamed, Distinguished Fellow of SDSN Asia. They offered remarks on the significance of youth involvement in environmental reporting. Dr. Mahadi highlighted how young leaders—through their passion and reporting—can drive real change toward a sustainable future.

The event also featured a video presentation on Jeli and Taman Eko Rimba Lata Kijang, showcasing important local environmental initiatives.

The highlight of the ceremony was the Prize Presentation Ceremony, where the winners of the Young Reporters for the Environment 2024 competition were honoured. Dato’ Sri Mustapa Mohamed together with Datuk Dr. Mahadi Mohamad presented the awards, recognising the remarkable efforts of these young reporters in raising awareness and advocating for sustainability.

The YRE Symposium and Award Ceremony 2024 stands as a powerful reminder of the role that youth play in shaping a sustainable future. Through initiatives like YRE, these young reporters are not just documenting the environmental challenges we face but are also driving the solutions that will create a better world for generations to come.