TAN Kai giving the prize to champion of secondary and primary school category.
KUCHING: Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) Chairman Tan Kai has called on students to take an active role in protecting the environment by embracing recycling and sustainable practices from a young age.
Speaking at the prize-giving ceremony of the Recycled Materials Sculpture Design Competition for primary and secondary schools organised by MPP today, Tan Kai commended the participation and creativity of students, principals, and teachers.
“This competition, themed ‘Love Our Environment,’ is a platform for students to understand the importance of sustainability and climate change. Small efforts such as recycling, reducing plastic use, and keeping our surroundings clean will have a big impact in the future,” he said.
Tan Kai reminded students that they are the future custodians of the earth.
“By turning waste into something new, you are part of the solution to global challenges like climate change, flash floods, and pollution. Even simple actions, like separating household waste or carrying your own water bottle, make a meaningful difference,” he added.
He also stressed that solid waste management and environmental care are shared responsibilities, especially as population growth and development increase the volume of waste generated.
To further promote recycling, Tan highlighted MPP’s monthly campaigns for collecting recyclable items, used electrical and electronic goods, used cooking oil, and second-hand clothing at various locations around Padawan. He encouraged the public to follow the council’s official Facebook page for updates.
Congratulating the winners, Tan said the students have now become “MPP ambassadors for recycling” after showcasing their creativity and commitment through the competition.
“I believe big changes begin with small steps. Today, you are not only competing, but also learning to be the generation that saves our planet,” he said.
By Connie Chieng