In conjunction with their 75th anniversary, Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) went the extra mile to cultivate an environmentally aware younger generation as Malaysia charts its course towards Net Zero 2050. In a groundbreaking collaboration with eight esteemed universities and higher education institutions, TNB orchestrated “TNB Reimagining The Future: Better Energy Visualised by Our Future Generation“, an immersive initiative that saw 64 students delve into sustainability workshops and showcase their innovative showpieces in a competition!
We had the honour of being a part of this awe-inspiring event and we were completely captivated. Join us as we unravel the unforgettable experiences of these young trailblazers and their quest to shape the future of sustainability!
1. Driving towards Net Zero 2050
Dedicated to leading sustainable energy solutions in Malaysia, TNB launched the transformative TNB Better Energy campaign in 2023. Since then, the company has embarked on an inspiring journey towards Net Zero 2050 fueled by Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives, social efforts, and a deep commitment to preserve the environment.
This time, through organising “TNB Reimagining The Future: Better Energy Visualised by Our Future Generation”, TNB extends its focus onto aspiring undergraduates, passing the baton to our future leaders who are poised to lead the charge for sustainability. The goal is to equip these vibrant minds with knowledge about renewable energy and inspire them to build a net zero future!
“By tapping into their diverse ideas and imaginative spirit, we foster an environment that champions creativity and innovation on the journey to Net Zero 2050. It’s through their incredible showpieces that we catch a glimpse of the future we’re striving to build.” said Madam Leo Pui Yong, the Chief Sustainability Officer of TNB.
2. Fun and insightful activities
Over the course of three weeks, the participants took part in interactive workshops conducted by experts from various industries, including:
- “Malaysia Energy Literacy Program (MELP) by Eng Oi Wei, Project Leader (PMO MELP), TNB
- “National Energy Transition Roadmap and TNB’s Energy Transition Plan” by Dr. Noor Miza Muhammad Razali, Program Director (PMO Energy Transition), TNB
- “Electrifying The Future, EV Revolution” by Aisha Daniyal, Lead (Regulatory and Advocacy), TNB
- “Sustainability 101” by Melissa Tan, a climate action and sustainability advocate
- “Storytelling Through Installation Design” by Aishah Mokhtar, an interior architecture lecturer
- “Climate Change Reality Within Malaysia” by Tasha Sabapathy, a sustainability advocate and abstract artist
- “The Connection Between Light Art and Architecture With Psychology” by Jun Ong, a light artist
- “Seeking Inspiration Through Waste” by William Koong, a zero-waste artist
Inspired by these transformative workshops, 16 groups of students unleashed their creativity and crafted unique showpieces that vividly conveyed their perspectives on sustainability. Part of the criteria involved presenting innovative uses of recycled materials in their creations, all while keeping with the theme of “Accelerating Responsible Energy Transition Together towards Net Zero 2050.”
After a fierce competition at Leo Moggie Convention Centre, TNB Bangsar on 20th January 2024, three outstanding winners were announced:
- Champion (RM8,000 cash prize): TO-GATHER, Malaysian Institute of Art (MIA)
Committed to illustrating the butterfly effect, their art piece features a gearwheel mechanism sourced from an old bicycle. When this mechanism is turned, it causes the wings of multiple butterflies to flutter, setting off the turbo light. This masterpiece serves as a powerful symbol, demonstrating that small habits in our daily lives can have significant environmental impacts!
- First Runner-Up (RM6,000 cash prize): Eco Warriors, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR)
Their captivating showpiece is a diorama of a sustainable city. Developing a keen interest in electric vehicles, the story follows an electric car that tours through the city, revealing various types of renewable energy used in Malaysia. Beyond the realistic cityscape, audiences were drawn in by the team’s compelling and vivid storytelling!
- Second Runner-Up (RM4,000 cash prize): Eco Vanguard, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM)
Their remarkable showpiece takes the form of a human head crafted from electronic waste, with tears streaming down the face. This poignant representation symbolizes the dire consequences humanity may encounter in the future if electronic waste is not disposed of properly.
But the spirit of appreciation didn’t stop there! Recognizing the hard work of all participants, RM1,000 consolation prizes were given to every group that poured their hearts into their projects.
3. Tune into the voices that truly matter
In an exclusive interview, we acquired valuable insights from some of the undergraduates as they shared their experiences with “TNB Reimagining The Future: Better Energy Visualised by Our Future Generation”. Here’s what these brilliant minds had to say!
“I’ve learnt that making small changes in our habits can significantly contribute to sustainability. Simple actions, such as opting for a reusable tumbler instead of disposable cups for my morning coffees, can have a profound and lasting impact!” — Ng Kai Wei, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR)
“There’s a strong emphasis on creativity in our workshops, and I’ve come to appreciate its significance in building a sustainable future. By thinking outside the box, we pave the way for innovative technologies and solutions that drive us towards Net Zero 2050.” — Chris, Universiti Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN)
“Being more mindful of my daily choices and their environmental impact, I can now educate my family and peers through leading by example and motivating them to make sustainable decisions, like choosing tote bags over plastic for our grocery trips!” — Nazrin, Universiti Malaya (UM)
“While visiting a recycling centre for materials, we found that improper disposal rendered many items unusable. That was when we realised that Malaysians need education on proper recycling methods, whether through school programs or awareness campaigns.” — Salehah Athar, Malaysian Institute of Art (MIA)
It seems like the students gleaned valuable insights from “TNB Reimagining The Future: Better Energy Visualised by Our Future Generation”, and now, they’re ready to share their newfound knowledge with families and friends!
Through immersive workshops and hands-on projects, this campaign has successfully raised awareness and inspired its young participants to advocate for sustainability. As these students carry forward their newfound insights, the impact of “TNB Reimagining The Future: Better Energy Visualised by Our Future Generation” is bound to resonate far beyond the event itself, making a lasting impact on our collective journey towards Net Zero 2050!
Want to play your part in sustainability too? Be sure to follow TNB on Facebook and Instagram to keep yourself updated with the latest sustainability news and campaigns!
