Sunway University Rallies Behind VM2026 With International Sun Bear Day Celebration

KUALA LUMPUR, May 17 (Bernama) -- Sunway University has reaffirmed its support for the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign by hosting the International Sun Bear Day 2026, an event celebrating biodiversity conservation, environmental education and sustainable tourism.

Held yesterday on campus in partnership with Tourism Malaysia, the event brought together Tourism Malaysia representatives, academics, students and community members to raise awareness about protecting the Malayan sun bear, while positioning Malaysia's natural heritage as a key pillar of the VM2026 narrative.

"We are proud to host this event in support of biodiversity awareness and in alignment with the VM2026 campaign," said Sunway University president and vice-chancellor Prof Sibrandes Poppema.

"As a Campus With A Conscience and a mission-driven fifth-generation university, sustainability is not a slogan. It is embedded in our teaching, our research, and our partnerships.

"We believe that education must go beyond the classroom, shaping individuals who are not only knowledgeable, but also responsible stewards of the environment," he said in a statement today.

Also present was Tourism Malaysia's senior director of Advertising and Digital and head of the VM2026 Secretariat, Mohd Akbal Setia.

Malaysia, one of the world's most biodiverse nations, is home to the Malayan sun bear, the smallest bear species on Earth, and a powerful symbol of the country's rich natural heritage.

The species has also been chosen as a key icon for the VM2026 campaign, represented by its official mascots, Wira and Manja. The duo reflects Malaysia's identity as a vibrant, welcoming and environmentally conscious destination.

According to the university, the presence of Wira and Manja alongside Sunway University's own mascots, Samson and Sophia, symbolised a shared vision between the university and Tourism Malaysia in promoting awareness and appreciation for the nation's biodiversity.

The celebration also coincided with Teachers' Day, offering a meaningful opportunity to honour educators who shape future generations to be not only knowledgeable, but also socially and environmentally responsible.

-- BERNAMA