Trained to settle arguments | The Star

A total of 75 individuals have received their professional certificates in alternative dispute resolution after undergoing training at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM).

The training was under the guidance of USM-Advance Dispute Resolution Council (ADRC).

Thirty-three from this pioneer group will join the mediation working committee at ADRC after receiving their certificates from Yang di-Pertua Negri Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak who was guest of honour at the ESG (environmental, social and governance) Pioneer Award Ceremony and Graduation Dinner.

At the dinner, Penang Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo said having locally trained and internationally recognised mediators was a significant step towards realising the Malaysia Madani vision.

“As we are all aware, Malaysia Madani is the brainchild of our Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

“It envisions a multicultural society that is inclusive, sustainable and racially harmonious.

“Having such mediators can provide an alternative means of resolving societal, governmental, family and individual disputes, reducing the burden on our judiciary system, which is already inundated with litigious cases.

“This progress aligns with our country’s commitments to Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) set by the United Nations, particularly SDG 16 which focuses on peace, justice and strong institutions,” said Jagdeep.

A total of 27 organisations including Star Media Group (SMG) Bhd, Nanyang Siang Pau Sdn Bhd, Penang branch campus of Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT), SMJK Chung Ling and Penang Island City Council (MBPP) were given the ESG Pioneer Award by the alliance of USM, Yayasan Amal TYT Pulau Pinang, Penang Green Council (PGC) and ADRC.

SMG client brand marketing general manager Simone Liong, Nanyang Siang Pau northern region bureau chief Tan Hu Chuan and TAR UMT Penang branch campus head Assoc Prof Dr Janice Toh Guat Guan were present to accept the awards.

Also at the event were ADRC honorary senior advisor Tan Sri Mohd Yussof Latiff, MBPP mayor Datuk A. Rajendran, Yayasan Amal TYT Pulau Pinang chief executive officer Datuk Seri Rozali Mohamud, Penang Hindu Association (PHA) president P. Murugiah and dinner organising chairman Lai Menn Tatt.

In his opening speech, Mohd Yusoff, who is also Penang Consultative Goodwill Council chairman, said the ESG Pioneer Award aimed to honour and celebrate organisations that had made a significant impact by incorporating ESG principles into their operations and decision-making processes.

“This award not only acknowledges these commendable practices but also serves as a catalyst to recognise corporate leadership in this field.

“By highlighting exemplary ESG readiness, we aim to inspire more organisations to prioritise sustainability and, in turn, create a positive impact on society and the environment,” he said.

Mohd Yusoff said the collaboration between USM and ADRC in organising the Professional Certificate in Alternative Dispute Resolution Practice since March this year, further reinforced the commitment to fostering a just and harmonious society.

“This programme is designed to equip community members with the skills and integrity to resolve community conflicts, thus contributing to the maintenance of a peaceful and harmonious society.

“We also managed to raise RM100,000 for Yayasan Amal TYT Pulau Pinang, which will be used for charitable endeavours and as grants for ESG research,” he added.

Mohd Yusoff urged all Malaysians to join hands and strive for success as together, they could contribute to a better world for the present generation and those that follow.