Forest Interactive Foundation Brings Sustainable Initiatives to Children’s Homes
KUALA LUMPUR, July 10, 2023: Forest Interactive Foundation (FIF) proudly announces the launch of #SeaTheChange, an initiative marking a significant step towards a more sustainable future. This programme aims to engage children in hands-on learning experiences in conjunction with World Environment Day and World Oceans Day in the hopes of empowering future leaders to take on a pivotal role in the conservation of our oceans and environment.
As part of this initiative to educate and empower children, FIF has organised visits to two orphanages: Pusat Jagaan Anak Yatim & Saudara Baru An-Najjah and Pertubuhan Kebajikan Islam Peribadi Mulia. Taking place at the children’s homes in June, the programme hopes to foster enthusiasm and impart a sense of commitment towards climate action and environmental preservation.
Through #SeaTheChange, the initiative introduces the children to environmental conservation at an early age and encourages the use of 21st century skills such as critical thinking in addressing environmental issues.
Each year, billion tonnes of waste, along with other pollutants finds their way into our ocean, posing an imminent peril to marine life. As the third largest contributor to the plastic pollution crisis, Malaysia has already produced a staggering 73,098 metric tonnes of plastic in recent years.
The increasing occurrence of catastrophic floods and landslides are becoming increasingly evident as we witness the devastating impacts, leaving many people affected. These events serve as reminder of the critical need for taking swift action to protect endangered species and our delicate ecosystem.
Forest Interactive Foundation’s #SeaTheChange initiative is committed to aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4 and 13: Quality Education and Climate Action.
Johary Mustapha, Founder and CEO of Forest Interactive Foundation, strongly believes in the transformative power of education, stating, “Through education, we can unlock the power within ourselves to make a tangible difference and truly see the change we wish to create for our environment.”
“The Foundation is actively working towards cultivating a generation of ecologically aware individuals for a sustainable future where future generations can thrive,” said Nisa Saharuddin, Community Engagement Lead of Forest Interactive Foundation. She added, “We hope that our initiatives can be the spark of change for these students and inspire them to make a difference in their communities, spreading the love of our environment one step at a time,” as she expressed that the organisation is devoted in helping these future eco-leaders.
Based in Datuk Keramat and Kajang, both orphanages extend its care to children from underprivileged backgrounds, single-parent households, individual with disabilities (OKU) and those who have recently embarked on a new spiritual path after embracing Muslim faith.
Puan Hawa, General Secretary of Persatuan Kebajikan An-Najjah Malaysia, expressed her unwavering support for these initiatives conducted specifically for the children, “Not only it is crucial for children, but also for people of all ages, that we take collective action to prevent further pollution and harm to our oceans and environment.”
In accordance with Puan Hawa’s viewpoint, the programme also extends its impact beyond engaging the children by promoting sustainable initiatives to internal talents within the Forest Group of Companies (FGOC). As part of this effort, reusable fabrics were collected from the talents and repurposed for the interactive activities, allowing the children to build their own planting pots and tote bags from scratch using the collected fabrics and recyclable resources.
One of the students, enthusiastically described her time participating in the #SeaTheChange. She voiced her excitement and appreciation for the enlightening and enjoyable lessons and activities delivered during the programme.
“Rarely do we get the chance to engage in hands-on activities. The knowledge shared was truly eye-opening, and each session brought us a new and thrilling experience. We are thankful to have been a part of #SeaTheChange,” said the student.
Having witnessed that the programme proved to be effective, Nurmanisa Nafiah, one of programme’s volunteers, highlighted the importance of starting the practices from home, “It’s amazing to see the kids learn and utilise DIY tote bag made from donated fabrics. They’re not just creating something cool, but also making a real difference for the environment.”
As the programme concludes, the children not only gained a significant awareness of urgent environmental concerns but also honed their skills in actively contributing to a greener future. In the hopes that our country’s children may grow up into future eco-leaders and embrace their role in creating a lasting impact in the community, Forest Interactive Foundation aims to conduct more environmental modules and educational programmes that integrate sustainability knowledge and best practices seamlessly into their daily lives.
About Forest Interactive Foundation
Founded in 2021 as the corporate social responsibility (CSR) arm of Forest Interactive, Forest Interactive Foundation (FIF) aims to safeguard the future of tomorrow by focusing on its three defined core pillars: Empowering communities, developing future innovators and bridging the gap for a sustainable environment.
FIF is a professionally managed, non-profit organisation set up by a group of citizens who want to bring about positive social change. Being a UN Global Compact member, FIF is committed to accelerating the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through its various initiatives, under its pillars.
Visit forestcares.org to learn more.
