In partnership with the United Nations (UN), Sunway University organised the “Rock the Goals 2025” celebration to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the launch of the UN 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in 2015.
The event brought together some 1,500 students, staff and guests alongside distinguished dignitaries from the UN, Unicef, European Union, World Health Organization, and ambassadors from all over the globe.
The night featured performances by popular local artists, including Malaysia’s neurodivergent band Zimi’J, and award-winning artist Uriah See, before concluding with a high-energy finale by DJ Blink.
The evening’s highlight was the “Rock the Goal Adaptive Fashion Show, inspired by the spirit of punk rock to showcase fashion as a force for inclusivity and sustainability.
The runway featured individuals from diverse backgrounds, all dressed in sustainable fabric creations by Sunway Fashion Design and Technology students.
The celebration also featured video messages of support from world-leading organisations, including the world-renowned chef Gordon Ramsay, who sent a personal message all the way from London, congratulating Sunway University on its efforts in advancing the SDGs.
“Sunway, you really are a campus with a conscience,” he said.
Describing young people as the heartbeat of this movement, UN Malaysia resident coordinator a.i. Robert Gass said 10 years ago, the world united over the 17 SDGs, but these goals need more than governments and the UN; 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,” he said.
Its president and vice-chancellor Prof Sibrandes Poppema said Sunway University was honoured to host the landmark celebration.
“The energy and passion of our students and community reflect Sunway’s commitment to sustainability and inclusivity.
“‘Rock the Goals 2025’ truly showed how education can inspire action and nurture a generation ready to achieve the SDGs,” he said in a press release dated Sept 29.
