Taking a short trip to school could spell many things to students and their parents, whether it is joy, frustration, or even reflection on yesterday’s vexing homework. However, in today’s climate, the pilgrimage for knowledge can quickly turn into an unpleasant experience, with the sun’s relentless ultraviolet rays constantly beating down on us, turning an otherwise simple task into a sweaty ordeal.
In the 21st century, phenomena such as heat waves, wildfires, ozone layer depletion, and rising sea levels are becoming increasingly alarming. These issues are mainly linked to global warming and climate change, triggering a wide range of environmental and health risks. Hence, it is important for all individuals to understand the adverse effects of these phenomena and take proactive steps to mitigate the impacts.
Dr Chua giving an explanation on photovoltaic (Solar PV) system
UTAR Centre for Railway Infrastructure and Engineering (CRIE) Chairperson Assoc Prof Ir Dr Chua Kein Huat, who is also an academic at Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science (LKC FES), was invited by SMJK Chong Hwa, Kuala Lumpur to give a talk on the gravity of global warming to students of the secondary school.
Themed Our Earth is Getting Hotter, the talk session was organised on 21 February 2025 at SMJK Chong Hwa, Kuala Lumpur. Besides raising awareness among students about the earth’s increasing temperature, the talk also aimed to educate them about effective climate actions, inspiring the youths to practice sustainability in daily life and reduce carbon footprints.
During the talk, Dr Chua provided an insightful overview of global warming. He explained that the current rise in global temperature is highly driven by human activities, including notable contributors such as deforestation, industrial emissions, and excessive energy consumption.
To further elucidate the alarming threats posed by climate change, Dr Chua presented an assortment of data and contexts, displaying various ongoing phenomena affecting the globe, particularly the melting glaciers, extreme weather patterns, and rising sea levels.
As a personal responsibility to combat climate change, Dr Chua highlighted various practices for the effective reduction of one’s carbon footprint. These practices included practising energy conservation, reducing waste, and promoting green initiatives in daily life.
As the world transitions into the fourth industrial revolution, it becomes apparent that the impacts of global warming and climate change are irreversible as long as human activities exist in the world. Nevertheless, it is our responsibility to mitigate these adverse effects and ensure that the Earth remains habitable for posterity through sustainable and innovative practices as we live on our beloved planet.
Dr Chua exchanging insights on green initiatives with students during Q&A session
Amidst the active interactions between Dr Chua and students from SMJK Chong Hwa, it was prevalent to the wider community that environmental education is vital, even among youths. As they were introduced to green initiatives, the future pillars showed positivity and willingness to take small yet impactful actions to protect the planet.
Dr Chua (second from left) receiving a token of appreciation from SMJK Chong Hwa Principal Ms Tan Siew Choo, accompanied by the school’s teacher and student
In this technologically turbulent era, UTAR will remain committed to fostering sustainability within communities through its extensive community outreach and collaborative initiatives, empowering individuals to take on a dynamic role in shaping a greener future for all.
© 2025 UNIVERSITI TUNKU ABDUL RAHMAN DU012(A).
Wholly owned by UTAR Education Foundation (200201010564(578227-M)) LEGAL STATEMENT TERM OF USAGE PRIVACY NOTICE
