Sustainability
The key to sustainability lies in adopting a mindset that prioritises values and the return on those values, rather than being solely driven by profit maximisation.
Overview
We are committed to advancing sustainability by fostering education, research, and partnerships to support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through innovative programmes, we aim to address global challenges like climate change and promote sustainable development.
Commitment to Global Change-Sustainability
Sustainability is about values and long-term impact, not just profit. As Prof. Sanggaran Mahindheran emphasises, the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation (JCF) focuses on sustainability to inspire meaningful change. By promoting education, research, and action, JCF actively supports the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), empowering individuals, communities, and leaders to foster a more sustainable future.
JCF’s USD 20 million contribution established the Jeffrey Sachs Center, driving innovative solutions to address climate change and societal challenges across Malaysia and Asia. In 2022, JCF opened the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network’s (UNSDSN-Malaysia) third global office at Sunway University, joining New York and Paris as global hubs.
The Role of Education in Driving Sustainable Development
SDG Academy
The SDG Academy, with teams in the USA and Malaysia, offers 50 free online courses on sustainable development, including environmental sustainability and social justice. Taught by renowned experts, these self-paced courses equip students with essential skills, empowering them to drive sustainable change. The rising enrolment reflects the Academy’s growing impact, fostering a culture of sustainability and global citizenship with lasting benefits for the community and nation.
Foster Collaborative Partnerships to Provide Education Resources
Mission 4.7
Mission 4.7, a key initiative of the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation, integrates education for sustainable development into Malaysia’s K-12 system. Partnering with global institutions like UN SDSN and UNESCO, the programme empowers teachers with essential skills, including problem-solving and critical thinking. Through pilot programmes across seven schools, 385 teachers have already received training, with 210 more by 2024. By enhancing teacher development, JCF aims to elevate Malaysia’s public education system, fostering a transformative generation of students equipped for a sustainable future.
Our Approaches
Joint Initiatives to Tackle Climate Change
ASEAN Green Futures Project
The ASEAN Green Futures project, led by JCF and SDSN-Malaysia, focuses on decarbonising Southeast Asia by restructuring energy, transport, and economic sectors. Through collaboration among ASEAN nations, universities, and research groups, the project promotes collective action for greater efficiency and impact. Pathway models have been developed, offering governments practical solutions to drive regional progress in tackling climate change.
SDSN Malaysia’s Science Panel for Southeast Asia’s Biodiversity Protection
As a prime collaborator, our foundation actively implements the Science Panel for Southeast Asia’s Biodiversity Protection, a flagship project by SDSN-Malaysia. The Amazon, Congo Basin, and Southeast Asia are global biodiversity hotspots. Borneo Island is rich in biodiversity. Preserving our precious rainforests is crucial for decarbonisation.
Together, Let’s Strive for Change to a Better Future!
The Jeffrey Cheah Foundation is committed to building a sustainable future for Malaysia through quality education and collaboration with all sectors of society. By fostering a global perspective, we aim to inspire action towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Together, we can make a meaningful impact on our planet, creating lasting change. Your support is vital in driving this mission forward, and together, we can create a ripple effect for global sustainability.
Thank you for joining forces with the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation as we work together to heal and protect our shared home, Earth!