Cartoons used to spread the message of environment conservation.

A WAYANG kulit show was the highlight at a recent exhibition focusing on climate change.

The performance was narrated by 17-year-old Jes Ebrahim Izaidin, who conveyed the message of doing our part for the environment before it is too late.

The Shadow Puppet Show titled Empty Earth was performed at the launch of the Facing the Climate exhibition at Ikano Power Centre.

Artist at work: Lat (right) working his magic as Swedish cartoonist Magnus Bard looks on.

Tree Theatre Group president Jes Izman Izaidin said the shadow play was performed at the United Nation’s Tunza International Children’s Environment Conference, Daejon, South Korea last year and the Singapore Zoo Night Safari.

“It is choreographed by the kids and their parents. We incorporated silat and the Balinese kecak dance. It is our way of promoting our rich culture abroad,” he said.

The exhibition was organised by the Embassy of Sweden and the Swedish Institute to raise awareness on climate change and promote sustainable development.

Cartoonists from Sweden and Malaysia took on the subject of climate change, adding some humour while highlighting the serious issue.

Among the cartoonists involved were Magnus Bard from Sweden, Datuk Mohd Nor Khalid, Reggie Lee, Tan Faezal, Ridzwan A. Rahim, Cedrik Gan, Sheldon Goh, Samsudin Ismail, Choo Li Hsian, Julian Kam, and Michael Chuah.

The exhibition was officiated by Ambassador of Sweden to Malaysia Per-Arne Hjelmborn, Deputy Natural Resources and Environment Minister Tan Sri Joseph Kurup, and Datuk Mohd Nor Khalid, better known as Lat.

Fierce performer: A performer from the Tree Theatre Group dressed up as a tiger executing some silat moves.

In his speech, Per-Arne Hjelmborn said that Sweden has incorporated sustainable living, renewable energy, and recycling in their every day lives.

“I hope the cartoons will bring laughter yet make one think and react,” he said.

As for Malaysia’s effort for the environment, Joseph said in his speech, “We are committed in reducing carbon emission intensity by 40% by the year 2020. We have laid down our masterplan and will soon have a road show to spread the awareness,” he said.

The exhibition at the Ikano Power Centre ends tomorrow.

-The Star-