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Alumni

Insights V

Name:

Sharifah Zulaika binti Syed Abu Bakar

Which year do you participate in ASEP?

ASEP 2022 Online “Building Recycling Society and My Satoyama”

How participation in ASEP changed your perspective on environmental sustainability?

After participation, it taught me that true sustainability is not just about conserving

resources but also about maintaining a balanced relationship between humans and their

environment. I realized that sustainable development must account for local communities'

cultural, social, and economic dimensions. The discussions and collaborative projects at

ASEP highlighted the importance of preserving biodiversity while ensuring that human

activities do not disrupt natural ecosystems. It also reinforced the idea that environmental

solutions must be inclusive, considering the needs and wisdom of indigenous communities

and other stakeholders who have coexisted with nature for generations. I look forward to

participating and seeing firsthand how local communities in Japan implement the

Satoyama approach in the future.

In what ways do you believe the project has had a lasting effect on environmental

awareness or future sustainability initiatives?

Creating lasting networks and partnerships with all the participants. The connections

formed during ASEP among participants, experts, and organizations have likely led to

ongoing collaborations in environmental projects. These networks serve as a foundation for

future sustainability initiatives, allowing for the exchange of ideas, resources, and support.

For instance, make another programme in the future with among the participants and

stakeholders. These partnerships have created opportunities for ongoing cooperation in

areas such as policy advocacy, community outreach, and environmental education

between each countries in Asia. With this opportunity also, we can make a mentorship

programme between the Alumni and New Student Leader every each country in the future.

How did your involvement in the project influence your career choices/personal

commitment to environmental sustainability?

Currently, I am actively involved in community programs, where I contribute by proposing

ideas on how to integrate sustainability practices into each event or activity. My focus is

on reducing waste and ensuring that the programs are more environmentally friendly.

Whether it's suggesting ways to minimize single-use plastics, promoting recycling, or

encouraging the use of sustainable materials, I aim to make each program as low-waste as

possible. This approach not only benefits the environment but also sets a positive example

for others in the community to follow. On a personal level, the programme has solidified my

commitment to living a sustainable lifestyle. I’ve become more conscious of my daily

choices, from reducing waste to supporting eco-friendly products and practices. This

personal commitment extends to my involvement in local environmental initiatives and my

desire to lead by example, inspiring others to adopt more sustainable behaviors.

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