Significance
Malaysia is endowed with rich biodiversity, evident in its lush rainforests, which are reservoirs of unique flora and fauna. However, these natural treasures are under grave threat from logging activities and expansive palm oil plantations, which are leading to deforestation, habitat loss at an alarming rate, and contributing to climate change through increased carbon emissions (Varkkey et al., 2018). Children, who will inherit this legacy, will need to play a crucial role in reversing or mitigating these adverse trends. It is imperative to instil in them a profound understanding and appreciation of the environment, as well as the skills and knowledge to advocate for sustainable practices (Sahani et al., 2022).
Yet, their connection to nature and understanding of the traditional ecological knowledge that could empower them to contribute to environmental conservation are often diluted in the face of modernisation and urban- centric education (Vinyeta & Lynn, 2013). The current educational curriculum arguably does not sufficiently emphasise or relate to the environmental realities that Malaysia faces, thereby potentially leaving children under-prepared to address the local and global environmental challenges ahead (Suhaimi & Mahmud, 2022).
This scenario underscores a pressing need for a transformative educational approach that not only enriches the learning experience but also prepares the younger generation to be environmentally responsible citizens. Embracing traditional ecological knowledge in the educational curriculum, particularly in the context of climate change education, has been shown to provide a more localised and relevant learning experience (Vinyeta & Lynn, 2013). This approach can bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical on-the-ground understanding, potentially fostering a generation of Malaysians who are not only aware of their environmental heritage but who are also equipped and motivated to protect it.
The proposed research is a timely initiative that seeks to harness the untapped potential of traditional ecological knowledge in enriching climate change education, promoting environmental stewardship among the younger generation, and fostering a culture of sustainability and respect for biodiversity in Malaysia, and consequently minimise the impacts of climate change on other regions. By integrating traditional ecological knowledge into climate change education in a participatory and inclusive manner, the research aims to contribute to a broader societal transformation towards environmental sustainability in Malaysia, precisely at a time when such a shift is most needed.
Economic development and welfare
The proposed activities and outputs for this research project have been designed to make a significant contribution to the economic development and welfare of Malaysia by addressing critical areas of sustainability, education, and cultural preservation. By co-creating a climate change curriculum framework enriched with traditional ecological knowledge, the project not only seeks to foster a more robust understanding of environmental sustainability among the younger generation but also to revitalise and integrate invaluable cultural heritage into centralised education in Malaysia. This juxtaposition of existing education with indigenous wisdom promotes a holistic learning experience, nurturing a sense of respect for the natural environment and cultural diversity.
The collaborative and inclusive nature of the project brings together a range of important stakeholders— educators, communities, policymakers, and potentially other sectors—facilitating a rich dialogue and shared learning experiences. This collaborative endeavour not only has the power to elevate the quality and relevance of education but also to instil a sense of communal responsibility towards preserving the environment and cultural heritage. Furthermore, the proposed activities aim to influence policy frameworks, advocating for an education system that is reflective of and responsive to the diverse socio-cultural and environmental context of Malaysia. Through these interconnected avenues, the project aspires to contribute significantly towards building a more sustainable, educated, and culturally rich society, which are fundamental pillars for the long-term economic development and societal welfare of Malaysia.