GEORGE TOWN, July 31 – Penang is set to become the beating heart of a nationwide conservation movement as the IKHTIAR Foundation launches its month-long “Love Our Turtles: Call-to-Action” campaign, a sweeping initiative dedicated to protecting Malaysia’s endangered sea turtles and promoting sustainable environmental stewardship.
Running from August 15 to September 14, the campaign will span the entire state, uniting education, community, culture, and innovation in a common mission to conserve marine life particularly the vulnerable sea turtle population.
The official launch, set for 16 August at Penang Town Hall, will be officiated by Chief Minister YAB Tuan Chow Kon Yeow and is expected to draw government leaders, academics, civil society organisations, and members of the public. The campaign will culminate on 14 September with a symbolic Turtle Release Ceremony at Kerachut Beach in Penang National Park, graced by the Yang di-Pertua Negeri Pulau Pinang, His Excellency Tun Dato’ Seri Ramli bin Ngah Talib.
Throughout the month, the campaign will roll out a comprehensive line-up of educational and cultural programmes. Among them is the “Love Our Turtles: Exhibition” (15- 31 August), an interactive showcase highlighting sea turtle ecology, the threats of marine pollution, and how ESG principles and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence are being used in modern conservation.
Another key highlight is the International Sustainability Congress 2025, which will take place on 3 and 4 September at Universiti Sains Malaysia. The forum will convene experts, policymakers, and environmental advocates from across the region to explore the latest in environmental governance and biodiversity protection positioning Penang as a thought leader in sustainability.
Community participation is central to the campaign. Beach clean-ups, public art murals, AI and sustainability workshops, trishaw and Grab rider engagement, creative youth events, and food truck festivals are among the many grassroots efforts that will run in tandem with the main events.
YBhg. Dato’ Seri Dr. Ahmad Jailani bin Muhamed Yunus, founder of the IKHTIAR Foundation, described the campaign as a powerful grassroots movement. “This campaign is not merely a series of events it is a national movement of care and action,” he said. “By integrating education, community spirit, and technological innovation, we are sending a clear message: the time to protect our turtles, and our environment, is now.”
The campaign also aligns seamlessly with Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship 2025 under the theme “Inclusivity and Sustainability.” That same ethos was echoed earlier this month by Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) representative Mr. Ashwin during the press conference for the 9th Asian Oceanian Congress of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine (AOCPRM), also to be held in Penang.
“It is a testament to what can be achieved when we work together to elevate Penang’s profile as a centre for impactful, knowledge-based events,” said Ashwin, adding that Penang’s growing reputation as a venue for international conferences reflects the global community’s trust in the state’s infrastructure, capabilities, and commitment to sustainability. He highlighted that ESG-driven practices such as digitalisation, carbon offset tree-planting, and inclusive tourism exemplified by programmes involving persons with disabilities—have become integral to how Penang hosts global events.
The convergence of environmental, educational, and professional initiatives marks a pivotal moment for Penang, which is increasingly recognised not only for its cultural and ecological wealth, but for its commitment to long-term, inclusive development. The “Love Our Turtles” campaign is not just a conservation push it is a reflection of Penang’s evolving identity as a sustainable and forward-thinking destination.
