Fels's Blog: EDUCATIONAL VISIT TO ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL, AND GOVERNANCE (ESG) CENTRE KUALA LUMPUR

On 7th December 2024, a group comprising 14 engineering students and 6 lecturers visited the ESG (ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL, AND GOVERNANCE) Centre in Kuala Lumpur. The visit aimed to enhance participants’ understanding of sustainable practices and governance principles, providing an invaluable opportunity for experiential learning. It’s aligned with EAC 2024 manual that emphasize the requirement of sustainability knowledge and assessment within the courses and program.

The presentation during the visit was conducted by Haji Ismail bin Abdullah, President and Chief Sustainability Officer (CSO) of International Green Trends Cockpit (IGTC) Sdn. Bhd. His expertise and approachable manner significantly enhanced the learning experience for all participants.

The ESG Centre was conceptualized by YBhg. Datuk Seri PMgr Sr Haji Kamarulzaman Bin Mat Salleh, the Mayor of Kuala Lumpur, as a demonstration of DBKL's (Kuala Lumpur City Hall) commitment to global sustainability and support for ESG frameworks. The Centre was officiated by YB Dr. Zaliha Binti Mustafa, the Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Federal Territories), on 1st August 2024.

The Center's key roles include serving as a reference hub for ESG programs, providing up-to-date insights on carbon reduction initiatives, and acting as the first "Sustainability Insights" center established by local authorities and government agencies. Additionally, it mentions its role in greenhouse gas inventory management, facilitating stakeholder relations, and encouraging self-learning through its design and circulation concepts. This infographic is visually appealing, combining simple text with dotted illustrations that emphasize its diverse contributions to ESG efforts.

The ESG Centre Kuala Lumpur is designed as a comprehensive hub for advancing sustainability and governance practices. Its concept revolves around:

1. Sustainability Insights: Acting as the first "Sustainability Insights" centre established by local authorities and government agencies, the Centre offers expert knowledge and data on sustainability challenges and solutions.

2. Educational Platform: Providing self-learning opportunities through interactive exhibitions, workshops, and digital resources that promote a deeper understanding of ESG principles.

3. Carbon Reduction Initiatives: Serving as a dissemination center for information and initiatives related to carbon reduction, climate change adaptation, and environmental stewardship.

4. Collaboration Network: Facilitating connections between corporations, government agencies, and community organizations to support ESG-driven collaborations and partnerships.

5. Data and Research Hub: Housing resources like the Greenhouse Gas Inventory Management System (GIMS), which supports transparent reporting and research in ESG compliance.

6. Innovative Design: Incorporating a forward-thinking architectural concept that emphasizes functionality, circulation, and a learning-friendly environment for visitors and stakeholders.

The educational visit to the ESG Centre provided multiple benefits for both students and lecturers:

1. Enhanced Knowledge of ESG Principles

Participants gained a deeper understanding of the core elements of ESG—environmental responsibility, social equity, and governance transparency—and their relevance to various industries.

2. Practical Exposure

Through interactive sessions and case studies, students and lecturers were exposed to real-world applications of ESG practices, such as carbon footprint reduction, ethical labor practices, and corporate governance models.

3. Skill Development

Students enhanced their critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaborative skills by engaging in group discussions and activities led by the Centre’s experts.

4. Networking Opportunities

The visit facilitated connections with professionals and organizations committed to sustainability, providing potential opportunities for internships and future collaborations.

5. Inspiration for Academic and Career Paths

Lecturers and students were inspired to incorporate ESG themes into their academic projects, teaching methodologies, and career aspirations, fostering a generation equipped to address sustainability challenges.

The visit to the ESG Centre Kuala Lumpur was a highly enriching experience, equipping participants with valuable insights into sustainable practices and ethical governance. It underscored the importance of integrating ESG principles into both personal and professional domains, preparing students to be proactive contributors to a sustainable future. This educational experience will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on all participants, reinforcing the critical role of education in driving meaningful change.