SMK Sungai Ara – Consumers Association Penang

*Mr Theeban from CAP guiding students of SMK Sungai Ara on the proper techniques of planting.*

SHAPING RESPONSIBLE STUDENTS THROUGH ENERGY CONSERVATION

I warmly welcome and fully support the energy-saving initiatives implemented in our school, says Ms Siti Nursufinah binti Yusop from SMK Sungai Ara. These efforts not only help to reduce school expenses but also provide students with early education on the importance of protecting the environment.

She shares the school’s energy-saving initiatives below.

To encourage responsible energy use, the school has taken several steps. Energy monitors are appointed in each class and awareness posters are displayed in all classrooms. Every Friday, the entire school participates in an activity where electricity is switched off for 30 minutes. During this time, the energy monitors oversee the practice in their respective classes.

*Mr Wong from CAP guiding students on how to safely make a hole at the bottom of a recycled container.*

One of the main challenges is ensuring consistency. At times, students are in a hurry and forget to switch off appliances, particularly during class transitions. For instance, when moving to the computer lab, students sometimes forget to turn off the switches before the next class begins.

Despite this, the overall cooperation from students has been very encouraging. Many students remind their classmates to switch off fans before leaving for recess, while some even ask me whether the school’s electricity bill has decreased. This reflects their concern and awareness of energy saving.

The school has also taken measures to regulate air conditioning use, allowing it only after 10.00 am. Based on my observations, the electricity bill has shown a slight reduction. Although the decrease is not very significant, it proves that the initiatives are making a positive impact. The continued use of large equipment, such as computers in the lab and air conditioning during examinations in the hall, still contributes to higher electricity consumption.

More importantly, this initiative nurtures students to be disciplined, responsible and environmentally conscious. These values are carried into their daily lives. For example, some students have shared with me that they apply the same discipline at home as they do in school.

The school is committed to sustaining this initiative even after the project ends, as it has already become a positive culture. For the information of the Consumers’ Association of Penang, our school has been practising energy-saving measures for the past three years. Each year, we have recorded a reduction in electricity costs.

*Ms Siti Nursufinah binti Yusop from SMK Sungai Ara*

At home, I personally set the air conditioning temperature at 25°C and use LED lighting to reduce energy consumption. Although my family initially found it difficult to adapt, over time they supported the effort, especially after I reminded them to unplug chargers and switch off plugs when not in use.

Students, too, have shared that they now switch off lights and fans after studying, reduce gadget usage and remind their parents to practise energy-saving habits.

The Parent-Teacher Association (PIBG) has also shown strong support, recognising the importance of educating students on this matter. They are excited about the electricity-saving activities, as these efforts not only conserve energy but also instil values of discipline, responsibility, trustworthiness and appreciation of resources. This initiative helps shape students to become more ethical, caring and environmentally responsible individuals.

Over the past three years, in my role of guiding students to adopt energy-saving habits, I have observed positive changes in both teachers and students, who are now more aware and committed to switching off electrical appliances when not in use. This is a meaningful achievement and a reflection of the effectiveness of our collective efforts.