By Nikita Christye Mitchelle

ISKANDAR PUTERI: SMK Medini has taken a bold step toward shaping environmentally conscious youth by hosting its first Program Kesedaran Alam Sekitar, in collaboration with REKAYU and the Solid Waste Management and Public Cleansing Corporation (SWCorp).

The initiative brought together 185 eager Form 1 and Form 2 students for an afternoon of learning, innovation, and hands-on sustainability.

The event kicked off with two engaging talks that set the tone for the day. REKAYU introduced the students to the Model Ekonomi Kitaran Sisa Kayu, an innovative approach to reusing discarded wood. SWCorp followed with an eye-opening session on recycling, waste segregation, and maintaining cleanliness — reinforcing the importance of daily habits that protect the environment.

This collaboration was a landmark moment, marking REKAYU’s first partnership with a secondary school in Johor. For SWCorp, it was equally significant, as their outreach programs have traditionally focused on primary schools.

From 4:30 p.m. to 6:45 p.m., the spotlight turned to action. Under REKAYU’s guidance, students rolled up their sleeves for an Upcycling Wood Workshop.

Using waste wood, they transformed scraps into a two-tier planter box and a raised garden bed — practical creations that underscored the value of turning waste into resources.

The REKAYU founder expressed delight at the students’ energy and teamwork, praising their creativity and problem-solving skills.

Beyond crafting planter boxes, the program was rooted in bigger global goals. Students were introduced to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with activities tying directly to several key targets:

• SDG 4: Quality Education — through experiential, hands-on learning.
• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities — by encouraging responsibility for cleaner, healthier surroundings.
• SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production — with waste repurposing and upcycling.
• SDG 13: Climate Action — highlighting the impact of everyday sustainable choices.

The program also aligned with Malaysia’s 2027 School Curriculum (KP2027), which emphasises sustainability, global citizenship, and character development.

By linking classroom knowledge to real-world issues, the initiative encouraged students to think critically, collaborate effectively, and take responsibility for their environment — nurturing values of discipline, respect, and innovation.

In the end, SMK Medini’s program not only raised awareness but also strengthened partnerships between education and industry.

It provided students with a glimpse of how local efforts connect to global movements, preparing them to be future-ready leaders who care for the planet.

The school extended heartfelt gratitude to the Johor State Education Department (JPNJ) and the Iskandar Puteri City Council (MBIP) for their support, as well as to the Iskandar Puteri Low Carbon Community Grant, which made the initiative possible.

SMK Medini hopes this pioneering collaboration will inspire more schools to adopt similar programs — paving the way for a generation of responsible, innovative, and environmentally conscious Malaysians.