THE Penang Island City Council (MBPP) will organise the Earth Day Xplore Race 2026 next month to promote environmental awareness and sustainable living practices among the public.
MBPP councillor Rohaizat Hamid said the programme, held in conjunction with Earth Day, would take place on April 25 from 8am to noon around the Lebuh Acheh Youth Centre area.
“The programme aims to increase public awareness on environmental issues, including climate change and biodiversity, while encouraging daily practices such as waste segregation, recycling and composting,” he said in a media conference today.
Rohaizat added that the explorace-style event would combine learning elements with physical challenges through sustainability-themed checkpoints.
“Participants will go through various stations focusing on recycling, composting, waste management, climate action and biodiversity in an interactive and engaging manner,” he said.
He said the programme would be carried out in collaboration with several strategic partners, including Tanjung Synergy, Riiicycle Sdn Bhd, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Malaysian Plastics Recycling Association, Life Line Clothing Malaysia, Techom, Miraico and Water Watch Penang.
“A total of nine checkpoints will be set up to provide exposure on waste segregation, environmental practices and the use of technology in waste management processes,” he added.
Among the activities are used cooking oil recovery, eco-brick making, food waste conversion, plastic recycling innovation, textile recycling, e-waste challenges and water conservation initiatives.
Rohaizat said the collaboration reflects the importance of public-private partnerships in strengthening recycling initiatives through the sharing of expertise, resources and community networks.
The programme is open to 18 teams, with each team comprising four participants aged 13 and above.
“The limited participation is to ensure a quality, interactive and safe experience for all participants,” he said.
He added that MBPP is targeting participation from youths, students, families and local communities, as well as individuals interested in environmental issues.
“We also welcome members of the public to come as supporters and visitors to enliven the programme,” he said.
Rohaizat said MBPP hopes the programme would serve as a platform to cultivate sustainable lifestyles and instil a greater appreciation for the environment.
“This initiative is in line with Penang’s aspiration to become a smart, green and resilient city,” he added.
Registration can be done via a QR code provided in promotional materials, while further updates are available on MBPP’s official social media platforms.
The fees are priced at RM50 for each team.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat