Curtin Sarawak, STB and others plant trees as part of jazz festival activities

Miri – 15 May 2013 – Curtin University, Sarawak Malaysia (Curtin Sarawak), Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) and several others took part in a tree-planting programme at the university’s campus to mark the recent eighth edition of the Borneo Jazz Festival in Miri.

STB chief executive officer Dato’ Rashid Khan said the programme was part of their annual carbon footprint initiative to offset carbon emissions during the festival which attracts thousands of music-lovers locally and across the region over two days each year.

“This greening programme not only addresses carbon emissions but also traffic congestion, waste management and the use of eco-friendly products,” Dato’ Rashid said at the launching ceremony.

Among those present were Professor Ian Kerr, pro vice-chancellor and chief executive of Curtin Sarawak; Miri Resident Antonio Kathi Galis, Miri District Officer Boniface Intang Apat, police chief ACP Mun Kock Keong, sponsors of the Borneo Jazz Festival, other officials from STB and Curtin Sarawak, staff and students of Tenby International School, and student members of the Curtin Environmental Club (CEC).

Dato’ Rashid said that STB would continue to work closely with Curtin Sarawak, including getting its students to volunteer for the jazz festival, as well as expanding the industry internship programme for Curtin Sarawak students initiated under an MoU for collaborative development signed between the two organisations last year.

Kerr, who also spoke earlier, said the continued cooperation with STB including the tree-planting programme which entered its third year this year augured well for the preservation of the environment.

“This morning, we will be planting 200 saplings that will become living symbols of peace and hope, international friendship, universal love of music and green ideals that the Borneo Jazz Festival brings each year.

“The trees will benefit not only Curtin Sarawak but also the whole of Miri – contributing to the sustainability of our ecosystems and the reduction of the city’s carbon footprint for many decades to come,” he said.

He also thanked the Miri City Council for providing the saplings of various species, and all those involved in the programme.

Prof Kerr (standing centre in blue suit), Dato Rashid (on his left), the jazz performers and other participants pose for a photo call after the tree-planting programme.

Prof. Kerr and Dato’ Rashid exchange momentos at the conclusion of the programme.

Students of Tenby International School doing their bit to protect the environment.