Students and dignitaries on stage at Sunway University’s Rock the Goals event, in Petaling Jaya, marking the 10th anniversary of UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
IT HAS been 10 years since United Nations (UN) member states adopted the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for peace and prosperity for people and the planet.
Sunway University commemorated the milestone with its Rock the Goals 2025 celebration, bringing together nearly 1,500 students, staffers, dignitaries from the UN, United Nations Children’s Fund (Unicef), European Union and World Health Organisation, as well as ambassadors.
The event featured electrifying performances by popular Malaysian artistes such as Zimi’J, Uriah See and DJ Blink, who brought the audience to its feet.
Among the highlights was the Rock the Goals Adaptive Fashion Show inspired by punk rock, showcasing inclusivity and sustainability.
It featured individuals from diverse backgrounds modelling creations by Sunway Fashion Design and Technology students.
There were also video messages of support from world organisations and even chef Gordon Ramsay who congratulated the university for advancing the SDGs, saying, “Sunway, you really are a ‘Campus With A Conscience’.”
UN Malaysia resident coordinator Robert Gass said: “To all the young people here, you are the heartbeat of this movement.
“Ten years ago, the world united over the 17 SDGs, but these goals need more than governments and the United Nations; they need your ideas, your courage and your action.
“Music inspires, unites and reminds us that change is possible.
“Every action, big or small, brings us closer to the world we want.
“Together, we can achieve the SDGs and let’s keep rocking the goals.”
University president Prof Sibrandes Poppema said: “We are honoured to host this landmark celebration in partnership with the United Nations.
“The energy and passion of our students and community reflect Sunway’s commitment to sustainability and inclusivity.
“Rock the Goals 2025 truly shows how education can inspire action and nurture a generation ready to achieve the SDGs.”
Rock the Goals 2025 was hailed as a credit to Malaysia, amplifying the nation’s commitment to sustainability on the global stage.
