The Malaysian Youth Delegation hosted the annual Retreat at EPIC Collective over the weekend of the 28th and 29th April 2018. New members were asked to reflect the activities they took part in, what they learned along the way, and what they took away from the experience. Here’s what our new members had to say:
By Sarah Edrina
When was the last time I typed on Word? I remember when I was more active in writing articles, my thoughts used to flow like poetry and had emotive qualities to them. I wrote from emotions and a truth deep within myself. So, when I got the task to write on about the retreat, I was quite worried. I wanted to do a video, but I won’t embarrass myself.
28th April 2018
The event started with an ice-breaking session to get to know new friends and there were activities held to bond us as a group. An introduction to the Malaysian Youth Delegation was actually enlightening as I gained exposure on the things they did all this time that I had put a blind eye to – in achieving climate justice globally through the involvement of youth. Then, Ms. Lavanya; WWF representative, spoke on the early history of UNFCCC and COP. She did talk about the micro-stories of what happened in the previous COP. It was a good session to me as I did learn a lot of things about COP and Paris Agreement, Kyoto Protocol and the politics behind climate justice. p/s: (I love her – all hail women empowerment).
After that, Thomas’s session with us on the history of COP and agreements was mind-blowing. The history that I knew and read on COP was actually just a glimpse of Tom Cruise. He explained to us about the sexy agreements and the beginning of COP. I love history since I was a kid so I did listen to the whole session and I am proud to say, I had so much fun internally.
Later that day, Ms. Shakila; Head of Sustainability of Cenergi SEA Sdn. Bhd gave a talk about renewable energy and focusing on energy efficiency projects by her company. I find it very beneficial as I’d never knew these projects are running in my own country! She did explain about the solar energy projects that have been a success and hydro projects as well as answered my question on the acceptance by Malaysians on renewable energy.
At the end of the day, we had a screening of ‘Before The Flood’. As a movie/ documentary freak, I didn’t want to miss this, plus, it was produced by the angel of my heart, Leonardo Dicaprio. I was truly amazed by his achievements in his involvement with the UN and climate change. He fought hard in maintaining his responsibility as a human being and most importantly, as a public figure. In a nutshell, the first day of the retreat was magnificent!
29th April 2018
Unfortunately, I couldn’t make it to the second day as I had high fever. My group mates were so nice to text me and I appreciate the friends that I created here. I couldn’t express much on what I feel and experience cause I was not there but every time I miss something vital, I’ll ask someone to explain. At least, I could get a grip of it.
My friends told me that they listened to talks by the MYD members on their experiences and journey to COP and working in this field. Plus, they did listen to a session where they explained on role of global south and global north countries and progress of climate policies, globally.
Conclusion
My foray into climate studies has crystalised that further. Growing up, I admit that my exposure on climate and environment was limited but I believe in the power of seeking knowledge. I want to get involved in this to ensure that I can help my home as much as I can and as a firm believer that climate justice is not just about caring about the Earth but beyond. It’s humanity work and the truth about humanity is to acknowledge and immerse oneself in the ocean of emotions.
I believe that to lower down the global temperature to 1.5 degree Celsius as mentioned in the Paris Agreement could be a success if everyone put their hands together and contribute to this good will. After all, it is our home.
Looking forward to work together with the team in obtaining great success for Malaysia in fighting for climate justice.
