SEGi College Penang hosted the Holistic Approach to Sustainability event, organised by the Brahma Kumaris Foundation, to explore sustainable solutions that integrate science, ethics, and spirituality. Held on 20 January 2025, the session brought together industry leaders, environmental advocates, and experts to discuss how a balanced approach can drive meaningful climate action and biodiversity protection.
Distinguished speakers, including YB Dato’ Seri Sundarajoo A/L Somu (EXCO of Housing & The Environment, Penang), Prof. Dato Dr GP Doraisamy (Secretary General of World Humanitarian Drive), and Mohan Singhal (Chairperson of Scientists & Engineers Wing, Brahma Kumaris HQ), shared insights on the urgency of sustainability efforts. With climate change accelerating, reports from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) indicate that global carbon emissions must be reduced by 45% by 2030 to prevent catastrophic climate impacts. The event emphasised that achieving this requires not just technological advancements but also ethical responsibility and a deep respect for nature.
A key highlight was the discussion on how spirituality and ethics can drive environmental action. Research from Harvard Business Review suggests that businesses and institutions that integrate sustainability with ethical leadership experience higher long-term impact and success. This event reinforced the importance of conscious decision-making, responsible resource management, and fostering global partnerships to protect the planet for future generations.
The role of education in sustainability was another critical theme. Studies by UNESCO highlight that integrating sustainability into education can increase climate literacy by 60%, equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills to adopt eco-conscious lifestyles. By bringing together students, staff, and external experts, the event encouraged a multi-disciplinary, collaborative approach to sustainability, demonstrating the power of collective action.
Biodiversity protection was also addressed, with discussions on deforestation, habitat destruction, and conservation. The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) reports that over one million species are at risk of extinction due to human activity, making it crucial to incorporate sustainable land management and conservation efforts into policy and education. By raising awareness about biodiversity loss and its impact on human survival, the event inspired attendees to adopt practices that preserve ecosystems and promote a harmonious relationship with nature.
This event reinforced the importance of partnerships in achieving sustainability goals. Bringing together government representatives, environmental organisations, and educational institutions showcased how cross-sector collaborations can accelerate sustainable progress. By empowering individuals to take action, the event served as a catalyst for long-term behavioural change and environmental responsibility.
This event is organised in support of the following United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG):
SDG 4: Quality Education
SDG 13: Climate Action
SDG 15: Life on Land
