At Jane Goodall’s Roots & Shoots, we believe that when young people are given the space to learn, collaborate, and take action, their ideas can grow into lasting change.

With the support of DP World, Roots & Shoots Malaysia is helping bring this vision to life through the Save the Earth Explorium — an innovative, cross-border initiative that will serve as a new centre for environmental education in Satun, Thailand.

Creating a space for connection and learning

This initiative represents a significant step for the Roots & Shoots network, establishing the first dedicated learning centre in the region, designed to connect youth, educators, and communities through hands-on environmental education.

The Explorium is being developed as a dynamic space where science, culture, and creativity come together — from conservation workshops and exhibitions to immersive learning experiences using digital tools.

Through collaboration with partners in Malaysia and Thailand, the project reflects the strength of the Roots & Shoots network: connecting local action with shared global purpose.

Cross-border collaboration in action

Even before its official opening, the Explorium has already begun creating opportunities for learning and exchange.

Young people from Malaysia’s One Academy in Kuala Lumpur have worked alongside the Satun team to design creative, technology-based experiences for future visitors — including virtual reality concepts, interactive storytelling, and educational tools that bring fossil history and local culture to life.

At the local level, the project has engaged schools, educators, artists, and community groups, building a strong foundation for long-term collaboration.

Early activities have already included:

• Hands-on workshops on Paleozoic fossils and natural dye techniques
• Participation from over 100 primary school students
• Engagement with at least six community partner groups, from educators to local artisans

These early moments reflect a growing ecosystem of learning, rooted in both local knowledge and global exchange.

Resilience in the face of challenges

Severe flooding in the region has presented unexpected challenges, delaying parts of the construction and damaging some equipment. Despite this, the project has continued to move forward through the dedication of the team and the support of the local community.

Workshops were adapted and delivered outdoors, ensuring that learning could continue even in difficult conditions. These efforts highlight the resilience and commitment of everyone involved — from organisers to students.

A growing project — with more to come

While important progress has already been made, the Explorium is still in development. The official launch, planned for later in the year, will mark an important milestone — expanding access to environmental education and welcoming even more young people into the space.

An estimated 300+ students are expected to participate as the programme expands following completion.

We look forward to sharing further updates as the project continues to grow — and as this new hub for learning, creativity, and conservation begins to reach its full potential.

Connecting local action to a global movement

This initiative demonstrates how Roots & Shoots continues to evolve — creating spaces where young people can learn from one another, explore new ideas, and take action in ways that reflect both their local context and global challenges.

In partnership with DP World, we are supporting the development of initiatives that connect communities, foster innovation, and empower young people to shape a more sustainable future.

In addition to supporting Roots & Shoots, DP World contributes globally through its education platform, offering free resources that inspire learning and innovation around sustainability.

Image Credits: R&S Malaysia