Co-founder, chairperson and executive director, The MareCet Research Organisation

Louisa Ponnampalam explains, “We must do our best to preserve planet Earth because, despite so much negativity, our planet is gifted with beauty. Nature is amazing, and I’ve been very fortunate that my line of work has provided me with countless opportunities to experience the breathtaking natural environment. At the same time, my work has exposed me to the severe degradation that Mother Earth is experiencing. It’s heartbreaking to witness. We need to step up efforts to save Mother Earth because she’s amazing, and without nature, we’d all cease to exist. 

“We are at a crossroads in time. The Earth is struggling to keep us human beings comfortable and sustain all our planet’s beauty. We can choose to make a difference in the future of planet Earth, or we can go down in history as having contributed to her demise. This Earth Day, I believe that everyone can be an everyday Earth hero.”

Read more: The conservationist who is protecting Malaysia’s marine mammals

Co-founder and group CEO, Plus Xnergy

“As an entrepreneur in the solar energy industry and a father of two sons, I believe that harnessing renewable energy sources like solar power is crucial for protecting our planet and ensuring a cleaner, healthier environment for our children and future generations,” shares Ko Chuan Zhen.

“Iceland holds a special place in my heart. There, I witnessed the mesmerising dance of the Northern Lights and that experience left me in awe. It reminded me of the profound beauty and significance of the world we inhabit.

“For Earth Day 2024, let us reaffirm our unwavering commitment to preserving and protecting our planetary home by embracing renewable sources of energy. Together, let us strive to create a cleaner, greener and more sustainable future for all.”

Country coordinator, Fashion Revolution

“Earth will survive without us. But if we continue to destroy it, it will likely be uninhabitable or extremely difficult for many species existing today, including ourselves. The sixth mass extinction is upon us. Earth will persist with its changes, bringing new adaptations and species, but they will likely look vastly different from the one we know today. In its current form, creation is so full of beauty that it inspires infinite awe and wonder,” says Melissa Tan.

“To put humans above God’s creations and assume we have the right to be dictators is a falsehood because we are of this Earth; we are of the ecosystem. Remembering [that] is returning to who we truly are.

“There are a few places I go to whenever I need to recharge myself: the river in Kuala Kubu Bharu, the hill near my house, and sanctuaries in Taiping for meditation. [These places] are where I can feel how alive everything is around me. My nervous system calms and my body eases into a restful, rightful state.

“My message this Earth Day is to connect with the natural world and allow that to expand within you. We will not protect what we do not love. Listen to what nature teaches you. Remember what it is to love and be fascinated by the natural world around us. We did not come from an exploitative, capitalist system built to consume, nor were we made for it. We were made to be part of a living, breathing planet.”

Read more: Sustainable Sunday: Melissa Tan on making the right fashion choices

Co-founder and director, Zero Waste Malaysia

“We humans need Earth more than the Earth needs us. Earth can live without humans, but humans can’t. Rather than thinking the Earth is worth saving, it’s more important for humans to save ourselves and be able to stay in a clean, safe and healthy environment,” says Khor Sue Yee.

“I love being everywhere with nature. The scent of clean air, the sound of birds chirping, the sound of the dripping rain, and the ocean breeze have connected me to being grounded and living in the present moment. Enjoying clean air and a safe and healthy environment is such a privilege. This Earth Day, pause what you are doing right now as you read this and take a deep breath. Observe your surroundings. Listen and feel what nature brings to you. Think about what we can contribute to the Earth. Let’s live consciously and mindfully.”

Read more: The entrepreneur who is inspiring others to live a waste-free life

Co-founder and board director, Nusanterra

Khairun Nisa Zabidi recalls, “There’s a joke I saw a lot in the early days of my activist career that says, ‘Save the earth. It’s the only planet with chocolate!’ On a serious note, beyond the moral and practical reasons to save the earth, it’s because it’s home, where we belong, and the foundation for what gives life its meaning.

“I don’t only find solace in a single place, I also cherish the lives of people around me, including family and friends. I appreciate the times in my life of remarkable richness and growth. I’ve had the privilege to live a wonderful life and call different places my home, but I am happy to be where I am.

“The scientist Albert Einstein said, ‘Look into nature, and you will understand everything better’. We’ve been disconnected from the world for so long in the pursuit of having more. It’s time to come home.”

Read more: Meet Khairun Nisa Zabidi, the environmentalist tackling climate change with innovation

Co-founder, Youths United for Earth

“Everything you know, everyone you love, is here on Earth. When I advocate for climate justice, I do so with the intensity that one would for their loved ones. It’s all interconnected. If, for instance, your child was in danger, wouldn’t you do everything in your power to protect them? Many people are already suffering and being impacted by climate change,” shares Max Han Kai Ding.

“My favourite place to be is my grandmother’s house in my hometown of Tampin, in the state of Negeri Sembilan. Nestled near the hills, it offers cool mornings with fresh air. I feel more connected with nature when I am there as I can be still and at peace with the world; it contrasts with the hustle and bustle of the big city. I don’t go back often, but I am inspired to build closer relations with others, much like how people in Tampin know each other and have a strong sense of community.”

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