The Lens
Green Wira Programme
Empowering educators in Malaysia for a zero-waste future.
By Krusha Khakhar, QS ImpACT
By offering comprehensive online modules, networking opportunities and personalised coaching sessions, the programme helps educators design and launch sustainability projects within their schools.
As Malaysia grapples with growing waste management challenges, there remains a significant gap in sustainability education. Schools, where the foundation for future environmental consciousness is laid, often lack the resources and knowledge to effectively implement zero waste practices.
Recognising this need, Zero Waste Malaysia founded the Green Wira Programme (GWP), a transformative initiative designed to train educators on sustainability and zero waste living. For their pioneering efforts in environmental education, the Green Wira Programme, led by Irene Chooi, is the recipient of the QS ImpACT Climate Education & Advocacy Champion Award 2024.
The Green Wira Programme focuses on equipping educators with the knowledge, tools and resources to integrate sustainability into their teaching and school practices. Currently serving primary and secondary schools in Malaysia’s Klang Valley region, which includes Selangor, Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya, the programme trains educators to implement zero waste principles and create environmental stewardship among students.
How It Works
By offering comprehensive online modules, networking opportunities and personalised coaching sessions, the programme helps educators design and launch sustainability projects within their schools. Participants can also apply for seed funding to turn their ideas into tangible actions. Notable projects funded by GWP include:
● Eco Smart Energy, which reduces electricity and water waste through energy-efficient systems and rainwater harvesting.
● Green Recycle House, a materials recovery facility that doubles as an environmental education hub.
● Snacky Box, a container rental system aimed at phasing out single-use plastics in school canteens.
Their Impact
Since its inception, the Green Wira Programme has made remarkable impact:
● 33,000 students impacted directly
● 1,000,000 people reached through educational initiatives
● RM 30,000 in seed funding awarded to impactful projects
● 3 zero waste schools built
● 50 educators trained and empowered
Why It Matters
The Green Wira Programme’s focus is on sustainable, long-term solutions that instil a culture of zero waste within the school system. As the programme grows, so does its potential to influence generations of students and educators, creating a ripple effect for future environmental leaders.
By embedding sustainability into the education system, the Green Wira Programme is laying the groundwork for a zero-waste future in Malaysia. Its model empowers educators while building a resilient, environmentally conscious future generation.
If this story inspires you and you’d like to support young changemakers like Irene in expanding their impact, reach out to QS ImpACT at partnerships@qsimpact.org.
As the winner of the QS ImpACT Climate Education & Advocacy Champion Award 2024, the Green Wira Programme is proving that education can be one of the most powerful tools for lasting environmental change.
50QS ImpACT is a UNEP accredited global charity registered in the UK and Whales. Our global community of young leaders grow and earn recognition for their positive impact on society. We connect universities, organizations and communities worldwide to develop young talent to lead through impact for a regenerative future. We recognize young people with Certificates, Badges, Scholarships and Awards. Last year, we impact over 112,000 people across 87 countries with over 2,100 community members and 50 Youth Ambassadors.
The culmination of the 2023 calendar year at QS ImpACT was marked by the prestigious QS ImpACT Awards, serving as our organization's flagship event. The overarching theme and mission of the awards were centred around the celebration of global regeneration.
It featured influential speeches and engaging discussions, showcasing the participation of distinguished leaders from the United Nations, Forbes 30 Under 30, and renowned global universities. A remarkable lineup of over 15 speakers and 16 judges contributed to the event's success, adding depth and value to the mission. The primary objective of the awards was to acknowledge and honour exceptional youth leaders spanning the globe, recognizing their remarkable contributions to community regeneration and transformation. After a rigorous evaluation, 45 finalists emerged from 18 different countries, with 8 emerging as winners.
Critical to the success of the event were the collaborative efforts with 15 impact partners, who played a pivotal role in supporting and enriching the journey towards creating a truly impactful and successful awards ceremony. The QS ImpACT Awards not only celebrated individual achievements but also fostered a collective spirit of regeneration.