On March 15, 2024, Water Watch Penang (WWP) successfully carried out the ‘Negalitres for Schools’ River and Water Education Programme at SJKC Kheng Tean. Under the Negalitres for Schools Programme, in the year 2022 during its kickoff, SJKC Kheng Tean was the first ever school to be installed with the water saving technology. This marks their inaugural educational talk in school for the year 2024 and also the third year of their participation in this programme.. A total of 300 students and 6 teachers participated in the program, which ran from 8:10 a.m. to 9:10 a.m.
Led by Mr. Hanson Yeoh, the WWP Programme Officer, and with support from WWP intern Mr. Dane Lim Chiu Tong, the session commenced with an insightful overview of WWP’s mission and past endeavors.
The conversation then pivoted towards the global, national, and local water crises, shedding light on water scarcity as a shared challenge that demands collective action. Penang’s own struggle with water scarcity, anchored by Sungai Muda in Kedah as its primary water source, underscored the urgency of the situation. Additionally, Mr. Hanson drew comparisons between water tariffs locally and internationally, emphasizing the need for Malaysian involvement in addressing this issue given the country’s relatively high-water consumption.
Moreover, Mr. Hanson underscored various water-saving techniques applicable to both the school and students’ households, notably highlighting the impact of the automatic push taps installed as part of the ‘Negalitres for Schools’ Programme. Under the newly improved module, a brief but crucial instructional video showcased the optimal handwashing technique, stressing the importance of using soap with the tap closed and embracing the efficiency of self-closing taps.
Throughout the session, interactive quizzes maintained an energetic atmosphere, with students rewarded for their participation with coloring books from Water Watch Penang. Water Watch Penang extends its gratitude to SJKC Kheng Tean for their collaboration and facilitation of an enriching environment conducive to learning and engagement.
For additional information, please reach out to WWP’s Executive Manager, Dr. Hong Chern Wern, at hong.wwp@gmail.com, or contact WWP directly at +6019-5751253
‘Negalitres for Schools’, launched on 22 March 2022, was coordinated by WWP, in partnership with Intel Corporation, CLEAN International and in collaboration with Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) and PBAPP. This project is fully funded by CLEAN International Inc. and Intel Corporation as well as supported by the Ministry of Environment and Water and Penang State Education Department. The local partners involved are Penang State Government via Penang Green Council, PBAPP and Green Educators Workgroup (GREW).