KUANTAN: Public Bank Bhd became the first financial institution in the country to participate in the Eco-Schools Programme (ESP), which focuses on climate education initiatives using project-based learning methods in schools.
As part of its environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives, Public Bank has partnered with the Green Growth Asia Foundation (GGAF) to launch the ESP in 20 schools in Pahang, Selangor, and Kuala Lumpur from this year to 2025.
The sponsorship amounts to RM1.2 million.
Public Bank managing director and chief executive officer Tan Sri Dr Tay Ah Lek said as financiers, they believed that financing sustainability would drive future sustainable value creation for the bank and its stakeholders.
"Embracing ESG is an opportunity to build a world where economic prosperity coexists with environmental preservation and social harmony.
"The partnership between GGAF and Public Bank joins a global movement to address challenges while contributing to the nation's economic transformation and social wellbeing.
"We have made significant commitments to sustainability by balancing our mandate as a financial institution while embracing ESG as part of our business.
"On top of our commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2030, and net zero carbon by 2050, we also have committed to mobilise RM48 billion in ESG-friendly financing by 2025."
He described the collaboration with GGAF as timely, saying it would not only educate the future generation on climate and environmental matters, but also support other initiatives, such as data collection and research related to greenhouse gases to facilitate initiatives in achieving net zero carbon.
GGAF executive director Ir. Ts. Dr Mahadi Mohamad described the partnership between Public Bank and GGAF as a milestone in their efforts boost environmental sustainability and youth empowerment.
Tay and Mahadi had earlier signed the sponsorship agreement, witnessed by Public Bank deputy chief executive officer Datuk Chang Kat Kiam and GGAF chief executive Dr R. Balamurugan.
GGAF is a non-profit organisation that spearheads initiatives to promote a new green growth strategy by striking a balance between economic development, social inclusivity and environmental sustainability
GGAF has been implementing the ESP since 2016, and there are 206 schools in Melaka, Perak and Kedah participating in the programme, with more than 15 schools achieving the International Green Flag Award.