USM PENANG, 6 May 2026 – The 5th International USM CGSS x PaGamO Environmental Education E‑sports Game Competition (Malaysia) 2026 concluded successfully on 12 April, marking another significant milestone in the growing recognition of this innovative initiative.

Jointly organised by Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) and PaGamO, the competition was hosted at SJK (C) Puay Chai, SS2, Petaling Jaya.

The programme aims to raise awareness of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and strengthen environmental education by integrating environmental themes into engaging e‑sports gameplay.

This year’s championship brought together 99 enthusiastic participants from primary and secondary schools across Penang, Kedah, Perak, Melaka, and Johor, reflecting the expanding reach and impact of the event in fostering environmental consciousness among the younger generation.

Competitors engaged in two categories, with Category A designated for primary school students, and Category B for secondary school students and open participants.

This year’s competition stood out for its unique blend of gaming and education.

It combined environmental learning with gamification through the Tzu Chi PaGamO platform.

Participants experienced an engaging mix of video game elements and sustainability-focused challenges.

They enhanced skills in strategic thinking, resource management, virtual city building, and quiz-based problem-solving.

The competition tested participants across 12 major sustainability themes.

These included water resources, ocean pollution, climate change, crisis defence, circular economy, energy conservation, air pollution, recycling, food resources, current affairs, net zero emissions, and the SDGs.

The diversity of themes made the championship both exciting and rich in knowledge relevant to global challenges.

Knowledge-sharing sessions were also conducted with experts from NGOs, the private sector, and higher education institutions.

A total of 18 teachers participated, gaining valuable insights into sustainability education.

Among the highlights was an introductory session on the SDGs and a presentation on the ONE PASS Chart by Siow Eik Kwang from Tzu Chi Malaysia.

He shared Tzu Chi’s environmental philosophy and practical experiences in promoting sustainability.

Lee Bee Chu from the Green Educators’ Workgroup (GREW) discussed the roles and responsibilities of youth in achieving the SDGs.

Student representative Benjamin Beh offered perspectives from the younger generation.

Deputy Director of the Centre for Global Sustainability Studies (CGSS) at USM, Associate Professor Dr. Ng Theam Foo, presented “USM CGSS – Vision and Action Towards SDGs.”

He outlined the direction and aspirations of EPEHub and Centre For Education and Training In Renewable Energy, Energy Efficiency & Green Technology (CETREE) in advancing sustainability education.

The championship was further brightened by the presence of Wan Samsuri Wan Hassan, Assistant Director of the Student Talent Development Unit, Selangor State Education Department.

It was also attended by Chief Research Officer of CETREE, CGSS, Dr. Mohd Sukri Shafie.

Visitors explored the SDGs exhibition organised by Tzu Chi Malaysia, which attracted strong interest from parents and families.

The event received support from organisations including GREW, Swisspac Resources Sdn. Bhd., The Prestige Hotel, Masmeyer Foundation, San & Associates, OKS Group, ViTrox Foundation, and Unitech QS Consultancy Sdn. Bhd.

This support reflected a shared commitment to environmental conservation for the well-being of future generations.

Malaysia’s participants performed commendably, securing fifth, sixth, and tenth places in Category B against competitors from Taiwan and Thailand.

Organisers announced that the 6th USM CGSS x PaGamO Championship will open for registration soon and continue into 2026/2027.

Ng said, “Overall, the 5th International USM CGSS x PaGamO Competition successfully demonstrated how the integration of technology, education, and entertainment can create an enjoyable, high-impact learning experience.”

“It is hoped that such initiatives will nurture a generation that is more aware, responsible, and committed to preserving environmental sustainability,” he added.

Text & Photo: Dr. Mohd Sukri Shafie, CETREE, CGSS, USM; Syafiq Saifullah Azmi, & Hong Kheng Jhun, CGSS, USM/Editing: Tan Ewe Hoe