The adults non-formal environmental education (EE): A Scenario in Sabah, Malaysia

Abstract

Education and awareness are the Green Strategies outlined in Malaysia's National Policy on environment. Non-formal education aims to complement primary and secondary education and provide acquisition of new-updated knowledge and skills. It has certain advantages over formal education because its flexible programme offers environmental knowledge to various target groups at convenient places through different types of activities. At present, adult environmental education activity in Sabah is increasingly being developed and promoted by various sectors. This paper presents the scenario of non-formal environmental education among adults in Sabah, Malaysia. The data were gathered from review of literatures on non-formal environmental education conducted by the Environment Protection Department, Sabah. The findings of compilation of case studies conducted by the Science and Technology Unit were also used. The results showed that many environmental education activities were campaigns on awareness and participated by non-government organizations (NGOs). Other activities involved include environmental talks, exhibitions, seminars, workshops, conventions, and outdoor activities. All activities implemented were found to have increased public awareness on environmental protection.