SIBU: The lights will be turned off at 8.30pm for an hour at 12 locations here on Saturday (March 23) in observation of Earth Hour.
Earth Hour is a global grassroots movement uniting people to take action on environmental issues and protect the planet.
The 12 locations are the Sibu Gateway and street lighting along Jalan Kampung Nyabor, Taman Ling, Sibu Central Market, Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) Public Library, Dataran Tun Tuanku Bujang Phase I, and Rajang Port Authority, Sanyan Tower (external lighting), University of Technology Sarawak (UTS), Laila Taib College (KLT), Sing Kwong Supermarket, Farley Supermarket, and the Sibu Municipal Council chairman's office.
SMC first started following the programme in 2010, but other local authorities in Sarawak have since followed suit, said SMC chairman Clarence Ting during a press conference.
"Local authorities in Sarawak have rotated hosting the programme and this year, Miri City Council will lead the initiative, with SMC and others participating virtually," said Ting.
"The public can tune in to the live broadcast on the Sibu Municipal Council chairman's Facebook page from 7.30pm. Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian will be the guest of honour," he added.
Ting urged the public to participate in the event, emphasising the importance of conserving energy and protecting the environment.
"This campaign is for anyone committed to making our planet a better place for the current and future generations. I urge parents to involve their children in this initiative to raise awareness," he added.
Ting also said that they would request electricity usage data from Sarawak Energy to monitor the programme's impact.
