The BINUS Youth Ambassador program, held in Bali, Indonesia, brought together young leaders from across ASEAN, providing a platform for presenting innovative proposals focused on sustainability and innovation. As the representative for Malaysia, Tew Jia Yu, a current Universiti Malaya student who is taking Bachelor of Science in Environmental Management and also a research intern of Universiti Malaya Sustainable Development Centre (UMSDC) had the opportunity to share a proposal titled "Pioneering a Sustainable Future in ASEAN: Algae-Based Bioplastics," which addresses the environmental impact of conventional plastics by promoting algae-based alternatives. This proposal aligns with the overarching goal of reducing plastic waste and fostering a more sustainable future across the ASEAN region. The program was an invaluable opportunity for Jia Yu to connect with like-minded individuals, inspire change, and brainstorm solutions to the environmental challenges they deeply care about.
A highlight of the program was the roundtable discussion where Jia Yu presented the proposal to fellow ambassadors and industry experts. This discussion allowed for a deep dive into the feasibility and potential impact of algae-based bioplastics in ASEAN. The feedback received was invaluable, particularly the emphasis on local resource availability, cost-effectiveness, and the role of government policy in promoting sustainable materials. This exchange of ideas not only refined the proposal but also underscored the importance of collaboration between young leaders, industry stakeholders, and policymakers in driving sustainable innovation.
The program gathered a total of nine ambassadors from eight ASEAN countries—Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines—each bringing unique perspectives and solutions to the table.
The Bridging Industry and University for Sustainable Future (BINUS) Indo-Pacific Forum provided a dynamic space for exploring how academia and industry can work together to create sustainable solutions. A key takeaway from the forum was the potential for cross-border collaboration, where shared challenges in sustainability can be addressed through joint efforts and innovative thinking.
Throughout the program, BINUS Youth Ambassadors had the opportunity to visit Tempat Pengolahan Sampah, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle (TPS3R) Kedonganan, a pioneering waste management facility in Bali. This visit provided valuable insights into their innovative approach to waste separation. The facility employs a systematic setup of four bins designated for organic waste, food waste, recyclable waste, and non-recyclable waste, each equipped with a QR code. Staff at the facility award marks for proper waste separation, incentivizing the community with the chance to visit a revered Balinese temple as a reward for their efforts. This initiative, inspired by Japan’s successful waste separation model, underscores the importance of community involvement in advancing sustainability efforts.
In addition to observing the facility's operations, Youth Ambassadors engaged with the local community to gain a deeper understanding of their perspectives and practices related to waste management. This engagement was crucial in appreciating how local practices align with and support the facility’s initiatives. By interacting directly with community members, ambassadors were able to grasp the challenges and opportunities within the local context, which enriched their understanding and appreciation of effective waste management strategies. This holistic approach highlights how localized solutions and community engagement are essential for driving meaningful and sustainable environmental impact.
Reflecting on his time as a BINUS Youth Ambassador, Tew Jia Yu expressed deep gratitude for the connections made, the knowledge gained, and the inspiration received throughout the program.
He noted, “This experience has strengthened my commitment to advancing sustainability in ASEAN, and I look forward to applying the lessons learned to future endeavors.” Jia Yu also extended a special shout-out to the Universiti Malaya Sustainable Development Centre (UMSDC) for their unwavering support and mentorship. He acknowledged that UMSDC has been instrumental in shaping his understanding of sustainability and equipping him with the tools needed to contribute effectively to the program. Jia Yu concluded, “The experience has deepened my commitment to advancing sustainability in ASEAN, and I am eager to continue applying the insights gained from the BINUS Youth Ambassador program, with UMSDC's guidance, to make a meaningful impact in our region.”
Universiti Malaya Sustainable Development Centre (UMSDC) extends its heartfelt congratulations to Tew Jia Yu for his exemplary representation and unwavering dedication during the BINUS Youth Ambassador program.
Jia Yu's commitment to advancing sustainability not only highlights his personal achievements but also serves as an inspiring model for others. UMSDC envisions a future where more students, inspired by Jia Yu’s passion and drive, contribute to creating a sustainable world. We are hopeful that his efforts will ignite a broader movement within the country, the ASEAN community, and globally, fostering innovative solutions and driving meaningful progress towards a more sustainable future for all.
