LABUAN: A total of 500 Form Three students from 11 secondary schools here have been appointed as “Safety Ambassadors” to spearhead a safety-first culture among the youth.

The students received their appointments during the “Let’s Be Safe” safety campaign held at Desa Tunas Hijau on Thursday (July 23).

The corporate social responsibility initiative was driven and fully sponsored by oil and gas firm Hibiscus Petroleum, in collaboration with the Labuan Education Department (JPWPL), the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), and the Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM).

Labuan Education Department director Yahya Ahmad Puteh said the campaign’s success highlights the importance of strategic synergy between corporate bodies and government agencies in holistic student development.

“Education is not only about emphasizing academic and cognitive aspects.

“Students also need to be exposed to skills and values that are close to their daily lives, including safety aspects.

“Safety cannot be compromised because each of us constantly faces various risks in life,” Yahya said, extending his appreciation to Hibiscus Petroleum, PDRM, and the fire department for their commitment.

The single-day program exposed students to interactive demonstrations and talks focusing on personal safety, accident prevention, and risk awareness in both physical and digital environments.

Key highlights included live fire safety drills, safe motorcycle riding demonstrations, and flood preparedness briefings.

Students were also educated on digital threats, covering crucial topics such as cyberbullying, physical bullying, and online scams.

Hibiscus Petroleum’s Labuan Crude Oil Terminal (LCOT) plant manager Sylvester Untin said the campaign reflects the company’s core values, where safety remains the topmost priority.

“This campaign aims to empower students with knowledge and awareness to make safe and responsible decisions in their daily lives, particularly concerning social media safety, motorcycle riding, fire, and floods.

“Congratulations to all participants. From today onward, you are safety ambassadors.

“Practice all the tips and guidance learned today and share that knowledge with your family and friends,” Untin said.

The 11 participating schools were SMK Lajau, SMK Pantai, SMK Labuan, SMK Taman Perumahan Bedaun, SMK Rancha-Rancha, SM St Anne, SM St Anthony, SM Sains Labuan, SMK Mutiara, SMA MAIWP Labuan, and the Labuan Vocational College.

Also present at the event were Labuan Education Department Educational Technology Resources sector chief assistant director Mohamad Pindut, and Hibiscus Petroleum’s community and government relations senior executive Durie Rainer Fong.

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