KUCHING: Incoming Rotary International District 3310 Governor Dr John Chan believes an emotional connection between youth and the environment is key to building a sustainable future.
And towards this end the Rotarian who will assume office in July has emphasised the importance of this year’s Rotary International theme of ‘Create Hope in the World’ in light of the challenging times the world is facing.
Dr Chan who will oversee Rotarian activities across Singapore, Brunei, Sarawak, Sabah, Johor, Malacca and Federal Territory of Labuan has been passionate about environmental sustainability.
“To this end, one of the major projects the Rotary clubs in the district will embark on is a tree planting project with a difference. Students throughout the district will be taught why we need to plant trees, how to plant a seed, raise seedlings and eventually plant them in the forest.
“I hope this project will change the mindset of one generation to one where environmental sustainability becomes the basis for their everyday decisions,” he said in a statement on Tuesday (March 21).
Dr Chan said the Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) has recently had a rare birth of a male baby orangutan which they have agreed to name Hope after the Rotary theme.
“I hope this will inspire both Rotary members and the general public to be more aware of the need to be environmentally sustainable. I believe that the orangutan, being an iconic species in the region can serve as a symbol of hope and a reminder of our responsibility to protect the environment for future generations,” he said.
He also encouraged everyone to take action in their daily lives to create a more sustainable world. “I look forward to a year where Rotary members and the people around us unite and take action to create lasting change across the globe in our communities and in ourselves,” he added.
