USM PENANG, 16 July 2026 – Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) recently celebrated the 5th Green Ambassadors’ Appreciation Night at the TORAY‑USM Building, honouring the dedicated service and impactful contributions of the Green Ambassadors (GA) volunteer team.

Organised by the Environmental Protection and Education Hub (EPEHub) under the USM Centre for Global Sustainability Studies (CGSS), the event celebrated the dedication and service of GA members in promoting environmental awareness and advancing sustainability initiatives both on campus and within the wider community.

Their efforts also directly support several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

Distinguished guests included the Coordinator of EPEHub and Deputy Director of CGSS, Associate Professor Dr. Ng Theam Foo; Advisor to the Green Ambassadors, Dr. Mohd Sukri Shafie; and Coordinator of Tzu Chi Environment Protection Education Centre (EPEC) at Taman Sri Nibong, EK Siow; alongside representatives from Tzu Chi Penang.

Honouring Dedication and Leadership

In his opening speech, Ng congratulated the Green Ambassadors for their outstanding contributions, noting: “Your commitment to environmental protection and sustainability reflects the true spirit of volunteerism and leadership. The journey of the Green Ambassadors is a testament to how youth can drive meaningful change, advancing education, responsible practices, and climate action in line with the SDGs.”

Echoing this sentiment, Mohd Sukri commended the team’s passion and perseverance: “The Green Ambassadors have shown that continuity and growth in volunteer-driven programmes are vital. I hope you remain steadfast in your efforts and continue to be role models in environmental stewardship for future generations, strengthening institutions and partnerships that make sustainability possible.”

Voices from the Team

Main Coordinator Then Min Han expressed heartfelt appreciation for the team’s resilience and collaborative spirit: “Together, we have driven impactful initiatives. I encourage all members to keep leading by example and inspire others to embrace greener, more responsible lifestyles — this is how we fulfil SDG 12 and SDG 13 while educating communities under SDG 4.”

Project Leader James Choo, who spearheaded the PaGamO and E-Bike projects, reflected on the team’s journey: “We faced challenges, but teamwork and unity enabled us to overcome obstacles. These experiences made us stronger and more determined, showing how collaboration under SDG 17 can drive real impact.”

Similarly, Lim Hui Tyng, Project Leader of Volunteer to Tzu Chi EPC, shared her gratitude: “Being part of this team has been a rewarding journey. I am thankful for the support of my fellow members and our collaboration with Tzu Chi, which demonstrates the power of partnerships for sustainability.”

Strengthening Partnerships

Representing Tzu Chi EPC, Tan Beng Hin highlighted the value of collaboration: “Working with EPEHub and the Green Ambassadors has been deeply fulfilling. Together, we have promoted sustainable lifestyle practices and witnessed the positive change that teamwork can bring to communities, advancing SDG 16 and SDG 17 in meaningful ways.”

As a token of appreciation, GA members received certificates and recognition for their valuable contributions. The evening concluded with a group photo, symbolising the closure of a successful chapter and the promise of continued impact from future cohorts.

Text: Hong Kheng Jhun, Centre for Global Sustainability Studies (CGSS), USM/Editing: Tan Ewe Hoe/Photo: Fiona Lee, Green Ambassadors, USM