JATI DIRI ALAM SEKITAR UNTUK PEMBUDAYAAN POLISI ALAM SEKITAR

Abstract

The successful implementation of a policy is not solely dependent on its formulation, but also on its acceptance, application, and culturalization within the community. The
culturalization of environmental policies can be achieved by cultivating an environmental identity in every community member, increasing environmental knowledge, and fostering positive perceptions and environmentally friendly practices. This study, conducted among undergraduate students at the National University of Malaysia, aimed to identify the level of environmental identity within the community. It examined the knowledge, perceptions, and practices of the respondents and explored the relationship between these levels. The survey method was used in this study, involving 372 second-year
undergraduates from 12 faculties of the selected university. The findings reveal that the majority of respondents were not only aware of the types of pollution, practices, beliefs, manufacturing technology, and the effects of unbalanced development, but also had both positive and moderately optimistic perceptions of environmental conservation and good practices related to environmental identity. The mean percentage and standard deviation for overall environmental conservation knowledge, perception, and action indicated that the scores for these aspects were at a moderate level. Multiple regression analysis showed a significant relationship between environmental conservation practices and environmental knowledge and perception. This case study showed that environmental knowledge and perception greatly influenced environmental conservation practices. This study proves that conserving environmental knowledge is instrumental in fostering environmental identity among individuals and inculcating environmental policies within the community.