GEORGE TOWN: Music, theatre and conversations on humanity's relationship with nature filled the grounds of the historic Shih Chung site as O-Earth 2026 opened in Penang.
The event, which saw about 200 participants gather, featured orchestral performances and theatrical presentations on how the pursuit of development had affected family relationships and humanity's connection with nature.
Penang Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo, who officiated at the event, said protecting the Earth was essential to ensuring future generations had a place to live.
"We may be of different colours, but if we do not take care of our Earth, none of us will have a space to continue living happily," he said at the launch on Saturday (Nov 14).
He said the initiative complemented the state government's agenda of making Penang a cleaner, greener, healthier and safer state, adding that much had been done since 2008, though more work remained.
Jagdeep later presented a RM20,000 mock cheque from the state government to organising chairperson Mei Tan.
The event, held at an open space named One Garden overlooking the former Shih Chung School building, centred on three values, namely Love for People, Love for All Life and Love for Earth, each showcased through a dedicated booth.
The two-day gathering on Saturday and Sunday (Nov 15) seeks to bring young people and adults together to explore ways of building a more sustainable future.
It also marked the launch of the Future Earthling Initiative, which aims to give children and young people opportunities to take part in real-world experiences and help shape the future.
O-Earth Founding Schools Circle coordinator Chan Quin Er said the success of education should be measured by how children felt in their learning environments.
"Whether in a rural home, a learning centre or a forest school, one question tells us whether education is working: How does a child feel in those places?" she said.
She said young people joining the 10 journeys across Penang would be co-creators, with their experiences helping shape the O-Earth learning blueprint.
"I ask everyone to listen before answering.
"When you feel your heartbeat rising, pause, breathe and ask yourself whether it comes from love or fear.
"Take something a young child or an elderly person tells you and bring it back to your homes, schools or workplaces," she said.
Using a dandelion as a metaphor, Chan said people should learn to let go and trust the journey.
"A dandelion does not know where it will land.
"It lets go and trusts the wind.
"That is the faith every parent and teacher should have," she said.
Also present was Asia Green Group founder Datuk Tan Boon Huat.
The 10 journeys will explore ecology, resources, oneness, media, all life, connection, education, creativity, wellbeing and technology.
Activities include visits to communities and meetings with practitioners before returning to One Garden to discuss solutions and potential projects.
More photos
