The Institute for Tropical Biology and Conservation (ITBC), Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), co-organised the International Youth Sustainability Action Programme 2026 with UTSS Japan and SMK Taman Tun Fuad from Sept 30 to Oct 2.
The three-day programme brought together 19 Japanese delegates, approximately 30 Malaysian secondary school students and UMS undergraduates to enhance youths’ knowledge and skills in Bornean biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.
The initiative also supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG 2030) through regional networking and knowledge exchange among youths.
Throughout the programme, participants attended specialised talks by biodiversity experts, interpretive visits to Galeri BORNEENSIS and interactive sessions at the ITBC Tropical Botanical Garden.
They also took part in Project Cycle Management (PCM) workshops to develop actionable sustainability plans for implementation at their respective schools and universities.
At SMK Taman Tun Fuad, participants were introduced to local cultural diversity and educational inclusivity through activities including traditional dances, games and engagements with students from the Special Education Integrated Programme (PPKI) in farming, cooking and cupstacking.
Officiating the closing ceremony on behalf of ITBC Director Assoc. Prof. Dr. Fiffy Hanisdah Saikim, ITBC Deputy Director Ts. Dr. Soo Chen Lin highlighted the importance of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD).
“The programme was designed to offer our young Japanese guests the golden opportunity for transfer of knowledge and skills,” she said.
“It provides strong motivation to join forces in global biodiversity conservation and sustainable development efforts. Impacts and gains in green mindset growth among youths are equally as instrumental and valuable as any other achievements,” she added.
Representing the student participants, Yokozeki Koto expressed her appreciation for the experience and collaboration throughout the programme.
“Although there were some challenges, such as language barriers, the experience we gained here was very valuable,” she said.
“Through the workshops, we experienced the process of solving problems together. If I have another opportunity, I would like to discuss endangered species and conservation measures with local university students to broaden our knowledge,” she added.
Meanwhile, Programme Coordinator and Head of BORNEENSIS Living Lab, Kueh Boon Hee @ Kelvin, said the second cycle of the programme served as an important step towards its future development.
“Since 2023, BORNEENSIS Living Lab has organised more than 10 signature ESD programmes,” he said.
“We are very certain that this programme will be upscaled with more participants and a longer duration across more learning venues in Sabah. It will be developed into an annual flagship programme for ITBC and UTSS,” he added
