Initiative draws participation of schools alongside public support
TO address growing concerns over electronic waste (e-waste), a school in Johor Baru rolled out a special initiative to motivate youth to take action.
SMK Mohd Khalid teacher and programme coordinator Fakhrur Razi Ahmad said the drop-off initiative rewarded schools collecting the largest volume of e-waste.
The initiative from July to September involved schools dropping off e-waste at several identified centres.
“Schools and students who collect the most e-waste will be given trophies and certificates as acknowledgement of their effort,” he said.
The initiative is a key component of the school’s “Kreatif Lestari: Creativity for an E-Waste-Free Environment” programme in collaboration with Sultan Ismail Library.
The programme drew participants from 10 primary and secondary schools across Johor, including SMK Nusajaya in Gelang Patah; SM IJ Convent in Johor Baru, SMK Taman Pelangi in Ulu Tiram; and SK Bandar Baru Uda 2.
There was also community support for the initiative with the public dropping off e-waste at collection centres in Johor Baru situated at SMK Mohd Khalid, Sultan Ismail Library, SMK Sultan Ismail, and SJK (T) Yahya Awal.
The programme also featured educational and creative activities.
These included interactive talks and live demonstrations by lecturers from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), officers from integrated solid waste management and public cleansing service provider SWM Environment Sdn Bhd and library representatives.
“During the knowledge-sharing sessions, students gained hands-on insights into managing e-waste responsibly and cultivating sustainable habits in everyday life,” said Fakhrur Razi.
Creative platforms were also used to engage younger students, such as a colouring contest for primary pupils and doodle contest for secondary students.
SMK Mohd Khalid principal Rostena Ismail lauded the school’s pioneering efforts and the students’ enthusiasm.
“This high-impact programme exposes students to environmental challenges while strengthening collaboration between schools, libraries and the wider community,” she said.
“I hope this effort continues in the future, as it delivers meaningful benefits to everyone involved,” she added.
