The Sunway Education Group and United Nations recently shook up Malaysia as thousands gathered for Shine a Light on Sustainability: Rock The Goals 2019 – an event held to create awareness of and underpin the Group’s commitment to furthering the 17 United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG).
UN Resident Coordinator in Malaysia Stefan Priesner welcomed a crowd of almost 2,000 at the Jeffrey Cheah Hall. “The SDGs are about balanced development between economic growth, social inclusion and environmental protection (and repair) based on strong institutions,” he said in his opening address.
The goals, a key component of the Agenda for Sustainable Development which was adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015, were developed to provide a blueprint for peace and prosperity for people and the planet. Strategies they cover include ending poverty, improving health and education, reducing inequality, spurring economic growth and tackling climate change.
A total of 17 dignitaries were invited to speak at the event, addressing each one of the goals in turn. Meanwhile, a lively programme of entertainment wowed the crowd, including ROCKestra by the Malaysian Philharmonic Youth Orchestra, a performance by all-autistic Malaysian band Zimi J, and Malaysian act, Muzza and Arjuna.
Speaking on the importance of collaborations to realise the goals, Tengku Amir Shah Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Al-Haj said: “The successful sustainable development agenda can only be achieved with continuous and coordinated partnerships involving governments, private sectors, civil service and individuals. I urge everyone to play a more active role for delivering sustainable change within the community.”
The Sunway Education Group is dedicated to championing sustainability within and around its campus. In its continuous effort to make the world a better and greener place, the Group strives to instil sustainable practises into various aspects of students’ education experience, and to nurture a community of socially and economically responsible global citizens of the future.
The event went out with a bang as Queen’s timeless We Will Rock You capped off the evening. Adding her own sentiments, Sunway Education Group Chief Executive Officer Dr Elizabeth Lee hoped that the event would further inspire the Sunway Community and its guests to work together towards achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.