In a bid to empower the younger generation, schools, colleges, and universities across the ASEAN region are embracing the ASEAN Sustainable Future Leaders (AFSL) competition. This groundbreaking event focuses on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), challenging participants with SDG-related cases through five-minute video presentations, pitching, and intensive question-and-answer sessions. The competition serves as a platform to nurture and shape the leaders of tomorrow, fostering skills that promise a positive impact on society.
Participation in AFSL not only provides a unique learning experience, but also positions schools and universities as leading institutions dedicated to producing job-ready professionals with cutting-edge skills. Beyond the educational realm, the competition acts as a catalyst for fostering engagement among ASEAN countries, offering students the opportunity for cross-cultural experiences and potential exchange programmes, enriching their overall academic journey. Ultimately, AFSL 2023 aspires to mould the next generation of leaders equipped with skills and experiences grounded in the principles of SDGs.
Methodist College Kuala Lumpur (MCKL) proudly emerged as a standout participant in AFSL 2023. Four Cambridge A Level students—John Prasanth, Aghilan Naythean, Nurazani Intan Natasha, and Francis Paul—led by MCKL’s Physics Lecturer, Mr. Ben Chan, demonstrated exceptional prowess at the competition held at UNITAR International University.
The National Champions! (L-R) Francis Paul, Nurazani Intan, Ben Chan, John Prasanth, and Aghilan
At the National Levels, the MCKL contingent strategically focused on influencing policy makers, drawing inspiration from Bhutan’s successful model for positive change. Out of 30 Malaysian teams, MCKL clinched the gold, securing their advancement to the prestigious ASEAN Level. Mr. Ben Chan, reflecting on the journey, remarked, “It started with me posting in my class, seeking willing participants. Our initial goal was to win Nationals and gain exposure. The team excelled; I provided the starting point, and they took it from there. The online announcement of MCKL as champions was met with excitement in the classroom.”
Advancing to the ASEAN Level, MCKL stood out as the only college-level team. Their presentation focused on policies addressing inequalities, particularly in education and energy resources. Remarkably, out of the six teams at the ASEAN Level, MCKL secured the Bronze.
Our Future Leaders in Sustainability
Mr. Ben Chan noted the distinctive experience at the ASEAN competition, highlighting the youthfulness of MCKL’s pre-university students compared to university-level competitors specialising in sustainability. Despite these challenges, the team’s third-place achievement stood as a testament to their dedication, relying on online research and interviews with friends.
Aghilan recalled the euphoria of being announced National Champions, emphasising the unexpected victory and the ensuing celebration in the room. MCKL’s success in national competitions resonates with the institution’s core value of “Celebrating Excellence,” showcasing not only victory through dedication but also a commitment to the highest academic and personal standards. The resilience and work ethic of MCKL’s pre-university students are the culmination of the culture of excellence fostered within the MCKL community.