@ green | May-June . 2024

Highlights and initiatives from the Green Jobs Carnival 2024

BY ADELINE ANTHONY ALPHONSO

On June 1 , 2024 , MGTC hosted the Green Jobs Carnival , a groundbreaking event promoting sustainable careers and green job opportunities .

The carnival was more than simply a job fair ; it was a hub where job seekers could interact with top companies in the green sector , learn about the fastexpanding field of green technology , and participate in discussions on sustainable development .

This platform offers hope and motivation for those seeking to contribute to a greener future .

PROMOTING SUSTAINABLE CAREERS

The carnival featured 30 training programmes on energy management and green industry practices designed to produce a skilled workforce for the green technology sector .

It involved 50 corporate partners and government agencies , including the Employees Provident Fund ( EPF ) and the Social Security Organisation ( Perkeso ).

Moreover , the carnival promoted the Green Jobs Malaysia portal , which lists 10,915 jobs from 962 companies , demonstrating the country ’ s vibrant and growing demand for green jobs .

DIALOGUE SESSION

The Green Jobs Carnival was graced by the Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability , Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad , who actively participated in a dialogue session with attendees , underscoring the government ’ s commitment to green initiatives .

Moderated by Dr Yasmin Rashid , the founder and president of EcoKnights ( a non-governmental environmental organisation ), the dialogue session with Nik Nazmi covered topics such as the future of green jobs in Malaysia , his thoughts on green initiatives , and what the government is doing .

“ This effort is one of the ministry ’ s commitments to support skill development initiatives for the green technology sector in line with the country ’ s targets under the Green Technology Master Plan

Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad and MGTC Group CEO Shamsul Bahar Mohd Nor launching the GTCC programme .

Dr Yasmin Rasyid and Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad during the dialogue session .

2017-2030 ( GTMP ) and the National Energy Transition Roadmap ( NETR ),” Nik Nazmi explained .

ADDRESSING THE CHALLENGES

Nik Nazmi addressed the broader challenges and initiatives related to green job creation , underlining the government ’ s unwavering commitment . His emphasis on linking sustainability with economic growth and job creation was a testament to the government ’ s confidence in the potential of green jobs .

“ Climate change and sustainability have a direct link to the economy . Without a sustainable planet , there won ’ t be any jobs ,” he stated .

He drew parallels with the US Biden administration ’ s approach , which framed climate change legislation as an economic strategy through the Inflation Reduction Act , emphasising energy independence rather than directly focusing on sustainability .

He also noted the importance of engaging Generation Z , who prioritise sustainability in their career choices .

“ For Gen Z , it ’ s not just about wages . They want to work in companies they can be proud of , ones that are committed to doing the right thing ,” said Nik Nazmi .

This shift in priorities necessitates that employers adapt their practices to attract and retain young talent .

He also mentioned the government ’ s support for green entrepreneurship and green procurement programmes , which encourage businesses to adopt sustainable practices .

EDUCATION AND BEHAVIORAL CHANGE

Moreover , Nik Nazmi stressed the need to integrate sustainability into education at all levels , empowering individuals with the knowledge and understanding to make informed decisions for a sustainable future .

“ We must embed environmental awareness into all disciplines , whether law , medicine , or economics . Everyone needs to understand the challenges our planet faces .”

He explained the importance of

Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad .

integrating sustainability topics across various subjects and disciplines in primary and secondary education .

This approach would ensure that students , regardless of their future professions , understand environmental challenges and the importance of sustainable practices .

Nik Nazmi noted : “ Behavioral change is crucial , but we also need corporations and governments to take responsibility . It ’ s not just up to individuals .

“ While public transport and electric vehicles are steps in the right direction , individual actions alone are insufficient - government policies and corporate accountability are essential in driving significant changes .

“ We need policies that support green industries , like mandating a percentage of government procurement to be green .”

THE PATH FORWARD

After the enriching dialogue session , Nik Nazmi and MGTC Group Chief Executive Officer Shamsul Bahar Mohd Nor launched an online self-paced program titled Green Technology and Climate Change Essentials ( GTCC ).

Based on the micro-learning concept , this program covers over 50 essential topics related to green technology and climate change .

It aims to equip the workforce with the necessary knowledge and skills to contribute to sustainable and inclusive economic development .

MGTC announced 100 scholarships for graduates to enrol in the GTCC programme from June 1-9 , 2024 , to support this initiative further . Public enrollment will begin in July 2024 .

This initiative underscores the government ’ s commitment to cultivating a knowledgeable and skilled workforce capable of driving the green economy forward . – @ green

A good number of attendees at the Green Jobs Carnival 2024 . Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad touring the booths .