KUALA TERENGGANU: Malaysians at large have been urged to practice a lifestyle that ensures the sustenance of a lasting, natural environment for mankind’s survival.
Making the call, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Nor Aieni Mokhtar said that this was in line with the United Nations objectives to ensure the continued healthy living of mankind by the year 2030.
“We have to begin practising the use of science and technology to preserve the environment, including marine life, through the optimal use of natural resources, biodiversity, energy and water.
“Action must come from the grassroots to the country’s administrators. Scientists are doing their part through research and development to preserve the environment and spur the economy,” she said at the launch of the ‘13th UMT International Annual Symposium on Sustainability, Science and Management 2016’ at the Primula Beach Hotel.
Nor Aieni added that scientists have innovated job opportunities for the younger generation through new creations and inventions towards developing the nation.
“Such efforts have resulted in inspiring the lesser fortunate to seek sustenance via ecological, economic and social means,” she said.
Universiti Putra Malaysia’s Emeritus Prof Datuk Dr Sulaiman Yassin said that one’s well-being and happiness were a useful measure of human progress and sustainable livelihood.
“Likewise, the prudent and wise use of resources is necessary for a nation’s continued economic well-being.
“This focuses on equitable and fair-sharing of the benefits of economic growth, promotion of a green development and measuring useful indicators for social, cultural, economic, political and sustainable outcomes,” he said.
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia’s Prof Dr Mohamed Mahmood El-Sayed Nasef said that the development of electrochemical based renewable energy devices like polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells and electrolysers, batteries and super capacitors provide more efficient, reliable and environmentally friendly systems.