A full-day Earth Hour programme took place at Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast on Saturday, 28th March 2026 where the spotlight was on insects and pollinators through a series of hands-on activities, expert sessions and a public lights-off gathering.
Titled “Little Creatures, Big Impact,” the programme highlighted how insects support ecosystems and contribute to nearly 75% of global food crops. Open to both hotel guests and the public, the initiative expanded Earth Hour beyond its usual one-hour switch-off into a day of accessible, family-friendly learning.
A key highlight was the Meet the Entomologist session led by Dr Aqilah Binti Awg Abdul Rahman, Senior Lecturer at the Department of Technology and Natural Resources, Faculty of Applied Sciences and Technology (UTHM) offering participants insights into insects as pollinators and their importance to agriculture, biodiversity and ecosystem balance.
Hands‑on activities throughout the day included a seed ball making to support pollinator habitats, insect‑Inspired Yoga connecting movement with environmental awareness, an educational biodiversity craft workshops for children and an insect specimen showcase featuring native species.
The Workshop participation was priced at RM50 per person, with 100% of proceeds donated to Pengerang Association for the Arts of Persons with Disabilities. In‑house guests receive a 20% discount.
Selected activities were open to both hotel guests and the public, alongside a community marketplace featuring stingless bee honey from Belungkor and handcrafted items produced by members of the association, highlighting native pollinators and local conservation efforts.
The programme concluded with the Earth Hour Lights‑Off Countdown from 8:20 PM to 9:30 PM at the resort’s iconic Mandala Guitar sculpture, bringing guests together for the global Earth Hour switch‑off moment at one of Desaru Coast’s most recognisable landmarks.
The evening then continued with an educational screening titled Most Amazing Insect Facts and themed refreshments at the Buzzing Bites Dessert Corner.
The initiative reflects Hard Rock’s global Save the Planet commitment and supports wider biodiversity awareness efforts in Malaysia through accessible environmental education designed for families, young visitors and the surrounding community.
