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May 2015
My Experience at Sepang EIC
by Melanie Bon
I recently joined MNS and my first outing as MNS member with the Flora group was organized by Koon Hup on the 21st and 22nd of March. It was a great pleasure as I spent 2
days at the Environmental Interpretive Centre (EIC) in Sepang helping establish a garden.
On Saturday morning, after looking around at the facilities in the education centre, we took
a short walk where we were introduced to the mangroves and the amazing adaptability of
these trees. Then, we picked up some tools and started weeding the garden area. One
team built a trail from donated tiles and completed it reusing pieces of concrete and tarmac; while another one planted some medicinal and ornamental plants. After our lunch
break at Sg. Pelek, we stopped on the way back to enjoy some freshly squeezed dragon
fruit juice and purchase some fruits from a local farm. In the afternoon, we continued with
the trail construction, the planting and preparing labels for the plants.
Our Garden walkways, finished at last.
At night, the hard work was rewarded by a delicious BBQ prepared by Chef
Derek and his helpers. The night walk event following dinner was a bit limited
due to the condition of the mangroves trail but we learned some more about
the mangrove trees and even spotted a frog in one of them.
Next morning, we had a good breakfast and did some more planting while other members helped with the cleaning and packing. We were blessed by a
heavy rain that watered all the plants and had our lunch on the EIC balcony
looking out at the mangroves.
It was great to see how fast work can be done by a team of motivated
people of every age. I hope that the donators will continue their contribution to
the garden so that other projects of the next stage can be implemented which
include a spring and a small wall around the garden. This way, school students and other visitors can enjoy learning about medicinal and ornamental
plants and also rest by being seated in the garden while enjoying the area.
Lovely yellow and green Dragon Fruit flower buds
Our garden walkway
completed at last.
Lovely yellow and green
Dragon Fruit flower buds
Volunteers hard at work
Beautiful Syzygium grandis (Jambu Laut) in
full bloom. .
Volunteers hard at work
The lovely volunteers that helped out at the Garden
VOLUNTEERING WITHOUT LEAVING YOUR HOME
By Wong Ee Lynn
(wongeelynn@yahoo.com)
The Green Living and Eco Kids team often receives queries from big-hearted people who wish
to volunteer for worthy causes but are unable to commit to a regular volunteering schedule.
Some of these people are elderly folk, some are busy parents, some live very far from town
and some just do not have the time, resources or means of travelling in order to volunteer at
a particular place on a regular basis. A great many of these queries come from children who
want to be able to do something to help people, animals or the environment.
If you are a young person with no income, no driving license and a busy school schedule, here
are some suggestions as to how you can still volunteer without leaving your home.
1. SET UP A COLLECTION CENTRE FOR E-WASTE AND RECYCLABLES: As you know, there are
collection bins for light bulbs, used batteries, old phones and broken electrical appliances
outside the front door of the Malaysian Nature Society (MNS) headquarters in Jalan Kelantan.
There are also recycling bins to collect paper, glass, plastic and metal waste at the MNS office
as well as in other locations.
2. CLOTHES AND TOILETRIES FOR THE POOR: People often inquire about where they can
send old clothes for donation or recycling. Many recycling centres collect old clothes to sell
in developing countries, especially in Africa. The money goes to the charities that collect the
clothes here in Malaysia. A better option would be to donate the clothes directly to the
groups and people that need them the most. Your job is to set up a Used Clothes Collection
Centre in the same fashion as the recycling and e-waste collection centre described above.
Launder and dry any clothes that do not seem particularly clean, or that smell musty. Sort
the clothes into Men's, Womén's and Children's clothes. Set aside anything torn, worn out
or badly stained.
Groups such as Need To Feed The Need (NFN) (https://www.facebook.com/ftnbenefit) will
accept all clothes for the homeless and urban poor. Groups such as Reach Out Malaysia
(https://www.facebook.com/ReachOutMalaysia)
and
Kechara
Soup
Kitchen
(www.kechara.com/soup-kitchen/) need mostly men's clothes for the homeless in Kuala
Lumpur, which comprises mostly men. Refugee organisations and refugee schools will usually also accept clothes for women and children, so please give them a call to see if they will
take your donation. You can also request your friends and family to bring you unused travel
-sized bottles of shampoo and soap from their hotel stays, and once you have enough, you
can hand them over to these organisations to distribute to the homeless, who will find
these small toiletry items easier to take with them than regular-sized toiletries. This is a
good way of putting these toiletries to use, rather than let them clutter up your cabinets.
Some of these recycling collection centres also collect reusable items such as books, clothes
and toys, for charity. If there are no recycling bins near your home or in your school, ask your
parents' permission to set up a small area to collect and store recyclables in your home. It can
be a series of boxes, bins or sturdy bags hung on a hook. Once your parents have consented
to collecting and transporting these items for you, you can inform your friends, neighbours,
classmates and relatives about your recycling centre, and encourage them to pass
their recyclables to you. You can make flyers and posters to inform others of what they can or
cannot hand over for recycling, or you can announce it via social media and phone.
3. TOYS FOR SHELTER ANIMALS: What can you do with the torn, worn out and stained
clothing described above? You can make toys for shelter animals using the said items. Toys
help animals feel more relaxed and less stressed out. Playing games keeps animals alert,
active and happy. Cut the old clothes into thick strips and braid them into tug toys. If you
don't know how to braid, ask your mother, sister or friend to show you how. Tie the rag
braids at both ends tightly so that it would not come undone easily. You can also make a
cloth ball by knotting strips of cloth repeatedly until it forms a tight ball. Or you can make a
rug for baby animals and nursing mama cats and dogs by laying several braided tug toys
together and then stitching them all into a rug. Make as many tug toys, cloth balls and pet
rugs as you can. When you do get the opportunity to visit the nearest animal shelter, hand
them your contributions. This project will keep old clothes out of landfills and also create
inexpensive, waste-free toys for shelter animals.
Your job is to keep the recyclables organised and clean. Wash or rinse out all cans and bottles.
Keep used batteries in a dry, clean jar in a dark, cool place to reduce the risk of leakage and
corrosion. Sort items into their correct categories. Once your bags or boxes are full or whenever you or your parents are passing through areas where the recycling and collection bins are
located, drop these items off and bring home your empty bags and boxes to be filled up all
over again. This way, you prevent a lot of waste from ending up in landfills, and you reduce
the need for others to drive. It's a win-win situation for all.
4. START A SEEDLING FARM FOR A COMMUNITY GARDEN: Some of the community gardens
and edible gardens in the Klang Valley include the Free Tree Society of Kuala Lumpur
(http://www.freetreesociety.org/), the TTDI Edible Garden (http://kgi.org/ttdi-edibleproject) and Eats Shoots and Roots (http://eatsshootsandroots.org/). Some gardens may
not have their own websites and Facebook pages but are managed by residents' associations next to community centres and playgrounds and can be found in neighbourhoods all
over the country.
Contact the volunteers managing the gardens and offer to grow plants for them to replant or give
away.
This
is
rather
like
being
a
foster
parent
to
plants.
Young plants often get eaten by insects, snails or other pests, so you can help these gardens by
growing and caring for plants until they are big or strong enough to be transplanted into the
ground. Collect used paper cups, juice cartons and other containers that you can use as planting
pots. Poke little holes in the bottom of the cups and cartons for drainage so that your plant's
roots will not be waterlogged. Fill around 1/3 of the cartons and cups with gravel or pebbles for
drainage. Fill the rest of it with potting soil. Collect the seeds from the fruits and vegetables that
you eat. Leave a ripe tomato or chilli on the kitchen counter to dry out for the seeds. You can also
collect carrot tops, sweet potato stalks and mint stems for planting. Plant these into your planters and water your plants in moderation. Your successful plants can be donated to these community gardens.
5. BE A POSTCARD PAL :
Request nicely for unused postcards from relatives and friends who
travel or collect free postcards. Sign up for YellowHouseKL's e-volunteering programme at http://
yellowhousekl.com/e-volunteer/. Fill in the postcards and mail them to YellowHouseKL for their
onward transmission to children in hospitals and juvenile detention centres. This is a good way of
using up postcards that you would not otherwise know what to do with.
6. BOOK COLLECTION CENTRE AND BOOK HOSPITAL :
As with collecting clothes and recyclables, you can set up a Book Collection Centre and Book Hospital to collect and repair books for
charity. Collect books from your friends and family and sort through them. Catalogues, used and
outdated reference books and schoolbooks and manuals should go into the paper recycling bin.
Sort books into books for children and adults. Wipe the covers with a damp cloth to clean them
and air-dry them for a day before you wrap them. Repair torn pages and wrap book covers in
plastic wrap (You can reuse the clear smooth plastic bags that new clothes come in to wrap books
with). Books for adults can go to community libraries (often in community centres) or the Green
Living Little Free Library at the MNS HQ. Books for children can go to various refugee schools and
community learning centres, and organisations such as The Revolving Library (https://
www.facebook.com/therevolvinglibrary) and the Lorong Kurau Bangsar Community Library.
As with collecting clothes and recyclables, you can set up a Book Collection Centre and Book Hospital to collect and repair books for charity. Collect books from your friends and family and sort
through them. Catalogues, used and outdated reference books and schoolbooks and manuals
should go into the paper recycling bin. Sort books into books for children and adults. Wipe the
covers with a damp cloth to clean them and air-dry them for a day before you wrap them. Repair
torn pages and wrap book covers in plastic wrap (You can reuse the clear smooth plastic bags
that new clothes come in to wrap books with). Books for adults can go to community libraries
(often in community centres) or the Green Living Little Free Library at the MNS HQ. Books for
children can go to various refugee schools and community learning centres, and organisations
such as The Revolving Library (https://www.facebook.com/therevolvinglibrary) and the Lorong
Kurau Bangsar Community Library.
"How beautiful a day can be when kindness touches it."
- George Ellison
GREEN LIVING COLUMN
ENFORCEMENT, NOT AWARENESS, NEEDED TO DETER
LITTERING
Your recent reports, “Warning for outdoor holiday-seekers” and “Doc: Malaysians need to be
more civic-conscious” (The Star, 16/3/2015) highlight the challenges faced in keeping national
parks and other outdoor recreational areas clean and free of litter. Littering is not just a matter of
aesthetics, but one with serious environmental, economic and health implications, especially in
light of the increase in leptospirosis and dengue cases.
As a volunteer with various environmental organisations, I have coordinated and participated in public clean-up programmes for over 20 years. From my experience, Malaysians are fully aware of the health and environmental problems associated with littering, yet are not motivated
to keep recreational and public areas clean, as the prevailing attitude seems to be that“someone
else is paid to clean up after me” and “I don’t live here so it’s not my problem”.
Once, at an ecotourism event, I observed a group of university students throw junk food
wrappers into a wooded slope. When I asked them why they would deliberately mar the beauty of
an ecologically sensitive area when there are rubbish bins a mere 100 metres away, they shrugged
and responded that they didn’t think it was important, because they would be leaving the same
evening and will not be around to witness any harm their litter may have caused.
Education and awareness campaigns, therefore, will have little, if any, positive impact on
an informed but apathetic population. Different strategies are required to deter littering.
The solution to the problem of litter and waste management is not to have an ever-increasing
budget for awareness programmes and clean-up campaigns. The solution lies in finding ways to
deter littering and to create incentives for waste reduction. My recommendations include:
1.
Litter begets litter. As long as there is uncollected litter present in recreational areas, people are less hesitant about leaving their litter behind as well. Since most recreational areas
collect an entrance fee, effort should be made to collect and remove litter on a regular basis, and to assign staff to monitor the area and fine visitors on the spot for littering. In the
long run, this will be less expensive than organising massive clean-up efforts every few
months, which will require more manpower and transportation services. At present, the
“Penalty for littering” signboards at recreational sites are mere objects of ridicule, with
litter deliberately left under the said signs since there isno enforcement of the rules.
The lamentable thing about most clean-up campaigns in Malaysia is that most of the volunteers are not local to the area, and thus the locals who visit the recreational areas most frequently can afford to remain apathetic. The local authorities, Education Ministry and relevant government agencies should collaborate with environmental organisations to compel
the participation of the local communities, particularly those in the neighbouring schools,
factories, fishing and farming cooperatives and residential areas, in order that they understand the time and effort involved and the health implications of littering.
During one particularly tiring clean-up campaign, a few teenagers from a local school were
overheard to moan that they would henceforth kick any of their friends who are spotted littering, since they have put in so many backbreaking hours into cleaning it all up. If we could
inculcate a sense of pride and stewardship in the local communities, half the battle would be
won.
2. Imposing conditions on the sale of refreshments and other items inside or directly outside
recreational areas, since stalls and shops are responsible for a large percentage of litter in
picnic sites and parks. Apart from our national parks, most recreational areas fall within the
purview of the local councils. The councils should implement regulations to ban or restrict
the use of plastic bags and foam packaging, as these form the bulk of the rubbish left behind.
Stalls and shops should also be made responsible for the cleanliness of their surroundings,
and business owners should be fined for any rubbish within a radius of 50 metres from their
stalls/shops that are not disposed of properly. If they fail to comply with these regulations,
they could face a fine or be deprived of their right to ply their trade in that area.
3. Local councils and the management bodies of recreational areas must set up a system to
charge a deposit on all food and beverage containers and disposable packaging brought into
park premises. In order for this measure to be effective, all concession and snack stalls must
be
outside
park
premises.
Park attendants can check the belongings of all visitors and charge a deposit of, say RM1,
for each cigarette packet, plastic bag and food and beverage container or packaging brought
into the park at the entrance counter and inform the visitors that they will get their deposit
back if they were to bring the items back for disposal upon exit. This system has been implemented with a high degree of success in Mysore Zoo and Bannerghatta National Park in
India. Currently, many recreational areas charge visitors an entrance fee, which is ostensibly
used for maintenance and cleaning services. This does not deter littering and many recreational areas are in a disgraceful state. It would not cost the local councils or management
bodies more to just assign the fee collector the duty of checking bags and picnic baskets for
disposable packaging and imposing a deposit sum on them. Visitors who are unable to pay
the deposit will be barred from entering the recreational area and be required to consume
their food and dispose of their waste and food packaging properly before entering the site.
Awareness and education campaigns can then focus on informing the public on the new nowaste policy and advising visitors not to bring disposable packaging into outdoor and picnic
sites.
To ensure its effectiveness, all unofficial entrances to parks will have to be closed off and
the park gates must be closed at night, not only to maintain the cleanliness of the area, but
also to prevent the parks from being utilised for vice, illegal activities and drinking sessions
after which broken bottles are left lying around.
4.There should be a national policy to impose a higher fee on plastic bags and Styrofoam
packaging to reflect their cradle-to-grave cost and the true environmental cost of cleaning
up clogged drains and rivers. This will, in turn, encourage manufacturers, retailers and
consumers to look for alternatives to disposable and non-biodegradable packaging.
The plastics industry often argues that the improper disposal of plastic waste is a result of
aberrant behaviour, namely, littering, rather than an indication that plastic products cause
harm to the environment and wildlife. If such is the case, then the banning and restriction
of sale and use of plastic bags, polystyrene packaging, and excessive packaging of any
kind will greatly reduce the opportunity for such "aberrant behaviour" to happen in the
first place, especially since plastic bags and foam packaging frequently get blown away
from picnic sites into waterways and seas.
5. Instituting a nationwide deposit system for recyclable items such as aluminium cans,
PET bottles and beverage cartons. The cost of purchasing packaged food and beverages in
Malaysia does not reflect the cost of disposing of them and managing the waste generated.
If a 20-sen deposit were to be charged for each unit of recyclable packaging, which will be
claimable at designated recycling centres, it would create an incentive for people to collect
and redeem their recyclables for cash, and also create economic opportunities for scrap
material collectors. This would also translate into less litter ending up in public and outdoor spaces.
Ultimately, this will reduce waste collection and transportation costs, as it will be the consumers who bring the items in for recycling themselves, instead of waste collection agencies being engaged to carry out such services.
One of the problems with recycling and waste management efforts in Malaysia is that
manufacturers are not made responsible for the environmental consequences of their products. If manufacturers were made to pay for the cradle-to-grave environmental cost of
their products, then ease-of-recycling would become a design criterion, and there would
be greater incentives to explore closed-loop production cycles and to create products with
a high percentage of recyclable or post-consumer recycled content. Unless there is a solid
and predictable market for recycled and biodegradable products, private companies will
not invest in the facilities to recycle, and market prices for recycled and biodegradable
WONG EE LYNN
COORDINATOR,
GREEN LIVING SPECIAL INTEREST GROUP,
MALAYSIAN NATURE SOCIETY
Disclaimer: All events’ times and venues are correct at the time of publishing this newsletter. For latest updates, kindly contact the Special Interest Group or check the MNS website. Booking priority might be given to the organizing branch’s members unless
stated otherwise.
MAY 2015
PERSATUAN PENCINTA ALAM
(MALAYSIAN NATURE SOCIETY)
JKR 641, Jalan Kelantan, Bukit Persekutuan, 50480 Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia.
Tel: 603-22879422 Fax: 603-22878773 E-Mail: mns@mns.my
Join us in Taiping for the MNS 68th
Annual General Meeting!
Date
Venue
:
:
12th September 2015 (SAT)
Taiping Perdana Hotel, Taiping, Perak ------------------- Detach Here (PLEASE FILL IN BLOCK LETTERS) ------------------
There are various packages arranged for members that would
include activities such as Charcoal Making Factory Visit,
Mangrove Education Boardwalk at Kuala Sepetang, Fireflies
Education Tour by boat at Kuala Sepetang, Kuala Sepetang
Eco River Cruise at Kuala Sangga, Bukit Larut – Bird watching & nature walk, Taiping Heritage Guide Walk, Fellowship
Dinner in conjunction with the celebration of 75th MNS Anniversary & many more.
Please select the package that you wish to participate in:
Min. No. of
Participants
Member
Activity
(A) &
(B)
10
RM310
Activity
(A) &
(C)
10
Package
Activities
Package 1
11-3/9/2015
(FRI – SUN,
3D2N)
Package 2
11-3/9/2015
(FRI – SUN,
3D2N)
Package 3
11-3/9/2015
(FRI – SUN,
3D2N)
Package 4
12-3/9/2015
(SAT – SUN,
2D2N)
Package 5
12-3/9/2015
(SAT - SUN,
2D1N)
Package 6
12-3/9/2015
(SAT - SUN,
2D1N)
AGM Meeting Package
Fellowship
Dinner
Buffet
Activity
(A) &
(D)
YOUR ATTENTION:
Activity (A): Charcoal Making Factory Visit, Mangrove Walk, & Firefly
Tour;
Activity (B): Kuala Sepetang Eco River Cruise;
ACtivity (C): Bukit Larut: Bird Watching & Nature Walk;
Activity (D): Taiping Heritage Guided Walk
Accommodation is priced on twin sharing basis. All rooms are air conditined.
Rates mentioned above include cost of accommodation, meals + Fellowship
Dinner and tour packages 1 – 6. ** For payment, please bank into MNS account (HSBC BANK 305194920108 or MALAYAN BANKING 012-138-304679), thereafter email the bank in slip together with this form to memberhsip@mns.org.my.
NonMember
No. of Pax Order
Member
Non-Member
Package 1 (3D2N)
RM 310 x (
)
RM 410 x (
)
Package 2 (3D2N)
RM 275 x (
)
RM 375 x (
)
Package 3 (3D2N)
Package 4 (2D1N)
RM 285 x (
RM 235 x (
)
)
RM 285 x (
RM 235 x (
)
)
Package 5 (2D1N)
Package 6 (2D1N)
RM 200 x (
RM 210 x (
)
)
RM 300 x (
RM 310 x (
)
)
AGM Meeting Package
RM 35 x (
)
Fellowship Dinner
RM 35 x (
)
Tentative Itinerary
Date
Time
Description
11/9 (FRI)
03:00 pm
Check in Hotel Taiping Perdana
05:00 pm
From Hotel Taiping Perdana to Kuala Sepetang Jetty (about 35 minutes dr ive) for
Charcoal Making Factory visit + Mangrove
Education Boardwalk.
08:00 pm
12/9 (SUN)
10:00 am
01:00 pm
02:00 pm
04:00 pm
04:15 pm
06:00 pm
07:00 pm
Amount
08:00 pm
16/9 (MON)
07:00 am
08:00 am
Total Amount
RM410
Participant Detail:
10
RM275
RM285
RM275
Name: ___________________________________________________
________________
Membership No. ______________
RM285
Address:
___________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________
Activity
(B)
10
Activity
(C)
10
Activity
(D)
10
Lunch &
Tea
RM235
RM200
RM210
RM35
-
RM35
RM235
Title:
RM300
RM310
Hse) _______________ Email: ______________________________
PLEASE READ: I, hereby, understand that this is non-refundable once a place has been
booked for me. I confirm that I am participating in this trip/event at my own request, and
hereby release and discharge the Malaysian Nature Society (MNS) and their agents or other
persons authorized by MNS from all claims that I, my personal representatives and/or dependents may have for any injury (including injury resulting in death) howsoever caused or sustained by me, for loss of and/or damage to me or my personal belongings suffered at any time
during this trip/event.
Signature: _______________________
Date: __________________
Breakfast
EGM
Lunch
AGM
Tea Break
Continuation of AGM
End
Audio Visual Presentation by Cheang Kum
Seng on Limestone Hills & Caves
Fellowship Buffet Dinner
Breakfast - check out after breakfast)
Tours Package 1 - 6 :
Package 1 & 4 - Kuala Sepetang Eco River
Cruise, including Eagle feeding, old har bor
& dolphin sighting (if lucky) at Kuala Sangga
(90 minutes)
Package 2 & 5 – Bukit Larut for bird watching and nature walk (ar r ange own tr anspor tation to Bukit Larut Foothill Station, about 10
-15 drive from Hotel Taiping Perdana. Jeep to
Bukit Larut is included in the package)
Package 3 & 6 – Taiping Heritage Guided
Walk (3-4 hours walk)
Things to bring:
Tel No: ____________ (O) _________________ (H/P) ____________________
Dinner
08:00 am
** Dinner on your own (either at Kuala
Sepetang Jetty or nearby Kuala Sepetang
town)
Fireflies Education Tour by boat
1.
Swimming attire, goggles, shorts, slippers, sunblock (optional)
2.
Water bladder/bottle
3.
Day Pack / small back pack(Jeram & Gabai Trips), raincoat/poncho
4.
A good pair of hiking shoes
5.
Binoculars (optional)
6.
Camera & batteries
7.
Hat/cap
8.
Insect repellent
9.
2 plastic bags (for wet & dry clothes) – package 3 & 6
Disclaimer: All events’ times and venues are correct at the time of publishing this newsletter. For latest updates, kindly contact the Special
Interest Group or check the MNS website. Booking priority might be given to the organizing branch’s members unless stated otherwise.
MAY 2015
2D1N SEKINCHAN HOMESTAY, 23rd - 24th May, 2015
Day 1 : 23/5
TIME
PARTICULARS
Begin
End
09:00
09:30
Meet @
09:30
11:30
Convoy to Sekinchan
11:30
14:00
1) Stop by Tanjong Karang to watch sea birds.
2) Lunch @ Kuala Selangor
1) Kuala Selangor Nature Park, etc etc etc
14:00
15:30
2) Proceed to Sekinchan
3) To PLS Marketing * / Paddy Field / Orchard
4) Check-In Homestay
15:30
17:00
1) Freshen-Up / Rest / Nap / Tea/Coffee Break
17:00
19:00
1) Proceed to Redang Beach for Sunset / Nesting Birds **
2) Seafood Dinner
3) Return to Homestay for the night.
Day 2 : 24/5
* PLS Marketing (M) SB is a local paddy grower in Sekinchan and process their harvest themselves. They are located not far from the town centre and if we are lucky enough, we could witness the harvesting in action. Otherwise, pay a minimal sum and watch a video presentation on
how paddy is grown, harvested and processed. Keep the ticket to exchange for a small but beautifully vacumn packed rice. You may also like to purchase some rice from their showroom and
mind you, there are a few choices for your picking! Pearl rice is strongly recommended.
** On the way to Redang Beach, you may be struck awe watching some big birds nesting on the
trees beside the fishing village. It's really a sight to behold. So don't forget to get ready your
binocular and camera ready. Good luck!!
06:00
07:00
Breakfast
1) To watch sunrise at Paddy Field
MNS Selangor Flora SIG AGM 2015
07:00
10:00
2) Rent Bicycle to Ride Alongside Paddy Field @ Own Cost
The Flora SIG will be having an AGM for the session 2015/2016. We're intending to form a new committee to better organise events and continue to feed our common interest. There would be a short
guided walk too after the AGM. Refreshments will be served. We're seeking out your interest, so
here are the details for you to mark your dates and come:
3) Free & Easy Time for Own Exploration
10:00
12:00
1) Lunch (Possibly at own cost if we do not have enough in the
kitty)
2) Check-Out
Date: 6 June 2015
3) Goodbye Sekinchan
Time: 9am to 12noon, registration starts at 8.30am
We are setting the pax fee at RM 150/ person for now and we will top it up as
necessary. Since this is an activity where the cost is shared among members more
members would mean a lower fee/person. We still have empty slots available. An
advance booking fee payment must be done by May 5 th to the homestay. So kindly confirm participation by the 5 th May, 2015
Venue: Auditorium, MNS HQ, Jalan Kelantan, Bukit Persekutuan, Kuala Lumpur
Let us know if you're coming by stating your name and MNS membership number and expiry date,
and email to kevinchoongck@gmail.com, koonhup@hotmail.com or vented_bulbul@yahoo.com.
See you there!
Disclaimer: All events’ times and venues are correct at the time of publishing this newsletter. For latest updates, kindly contact the Special Interest Group or check the MNS website. Booking priority might be given to the organizing branch’s members
unless stated otherwise.
MAY 2015
“One of the best “Cuti-Cuti Malaysia” trips I’ve done! I have learned
so much about turtles and terrapins in
just a weekend. Wonderful and
amazing excursion! Highly recommended to locals and tourists alike!”
The Turtle Discovery Trip
is a one-day turtle-watching programme designed to give members
of the public an introduction to the different turtles in Malaysia; the
river terrapin research and conservation projects carried out by Turtle Conservation Society of Malaysia in Kemaman; as well as a rstin-a-lifetime opportunity to watch sea turtles nest.
“One of a kind Turtle Discovery Trip that we
joined last year. It is a very educational trip
about not only sea turtles, but freshwater turtles
too. A must for all!”
“It was heartening to see efforts made by the
Trip Includes
Turtle Conservation Society of Malaysia to promote awareness on the plight of turtles. Enlightening, educational and fun! A great way to spend
the weekend with family or friends!”
 A visit to the Sea Turtle Sanctuary managed by the Department of Fisheries in Cherating, Pahang
 A visit to the River Terrapin Conservation Project by the Turtle Conservation Society of Malaysia in
Kemaman, Terengganu
 An opportunity to watch sea turtles lay eggs in Monica Bay,
Kemaman, Terengganu
Not included: Transport from KL
or elsewhere to Cherating and
KemamanHotel or Accommoda-
 A complimentary river terrapin adoption
Turtle Conservation Society of Malaysia (4454-11-TRG)
Rates
Adult
RM 180
Youth (12-18 years old)
RM 90
Family (2 Adults + 2 Children below 12 years old) RM 360
Each additional child to be charged
RM 40
TCS member
RM 144 (20% discount)
2.00pm
Meet & greet @ the Turtle Sanctuary, Cherating. Briefing & looking around. Photo opportunity.
3.00pm
Leave Cherating for Kg. Pasir Gajah
4.00pm
Arrive@Kg. Pasir Gajah. Briefing on the river terrapin project. Photo opportunity. Light refreshments.
5.00pm
Leave Kg. Pasir Gajah for hotel.
5.30pm
Check-in hotel. Free and easy.
7.30pm
Dinner(inclusive) at pork-free restaurant.
9.00pm
Proceed to the sea turtle nesting beach
9.15pm
Brieng. Watch sea turtles lay eggs.
11-12am Return to hotel.
* Optional: You could extend your trip by driving northward to Kuala Terengganu to see Turtle Alley in Chinatown. The drive from Kemaman to
Kuala Terengganu is approximately 2.5 hours.
For
more
info
www.turtleconservationsociety.org.my
contactus@turtleconservationsociety.org.my
www.facebook.com/TurtleConservationSocietyOfMalaysia
Marine Volunteer Training Workshop 2015
Marine SIG (Selangor Branch) will be conducting a 1-night, 1 morning workshop in Port Dickson from 1213th June 2015 (Fri night-Sat noon) for MNS members who wish to volunteer at our annual World Oceans
Day event. You will learn about marine life, fish ID, animal symbiosis, how to conduct a low-tide beach
walk, how to carry out a clean coast index study and many more exciting activities!
The itinerary looks something like this: Head to PD after work on Friday, low-tide beach walk (be
prepared to stay up late!), overnight at accommodation, continue next morning till lunch time then head back
home.
Requirements: you must know how to swim proficiently, be comfortable in the sea, have a desire to
share your knowledge of the marine environment with adults and children, and after "graduating" from the
workshop, be able to volunteer at least once a year for a MNS marine event.
For more information about details including costs, schedule, car-pooling, accommodation, what to
bring etc or to register, please e-mail Wee Liem at wlwong983[at]gmail.com with 1) your full name 2) valid
MNS membership number 3) mobile number 4) specify if you are a diver / non-diver 5) any other qualifications you have e.g. reef check diver, SSI snorkel diver
Click on to >> http://mnsmarine.blogspot.com/ for the marine special interest group (selangor branch) run
by volunteer members of the malaysian nature society.
Disclaimer: All events’ times and venues are correct at the time of publishing this newsletter. For latest updates, kindly contact the Special
Interest Group or check the MNS website. Booking priority might be given to the organizing branch’s members unless stated otherwise.
MAY 2015
MNS Photo Group
May 2015 Newsletter
Photographing Kelantan International Kite Festival
Thurs, 28th May to Sun, 31st May 2015 (4 days)
RM250/pax
May is the time where the wind blows strongly in Kelantan and colourful majestic kites soar proudly in the east coast.
Photo Group has planned for almost a year this photography outing and to
coincide with Kelantan’s annual International Kite Festival. This is purely a
photography trip and we accept a limited number of participants only.
The cost of the trip is RM250/pax include food and lodging EXCLUDING
TRANSPORT. Photo group however, will facilitate carpooling.
Exclusively for MNS members only.
Visit
this
link
http://mnsphotogroup.org/page28/page42/page43/
page43.html to view the scenes captured during our recce this year excluding
the kite event.
Please email Mrs Salmah Forbes at salmah1950@gmail.com with your contact details, membership number and its expiry date to secure a place before
it disappear with the wind.
MNS Photo Group Indoor Talk
Wed, 20 May 2015 @ 8pm
MNS Head Quarter’s Auditorium
Session A: Two (2) photography training sessions would be conducted as follow:
1.
Landscape by Alex Foong
2.
Depth of Field by George Ng
Those who wish to improve their photography skills in these areas are encouraged to
attend. Furthermore, it is nice to meet and network with your fellow nature friends
here too. Come along!
Session B: Photo Sharing on Rantau Abang trip on 18 – 19 Apr 2015
Participants to the recently concluded photography trip is encouraged to submit their
photographs for review with the objective to improve their skills. Email at least 5
photos to mnsphotogroup@gmail.com or bring your thumb drive on event date.
Share and learn together.
*Pictures sourced from the Internet.
Disclaimer: All events’ times and venues are correct at the time of publishing this newsletter. For latest updates, kindly contact the Special Interest Group or check the MNS website. Booking priority might be given to the organizing branch’s members unless stated otherwise.
MAY 2015
Checklist of things to bring:
1.
2.
Healthy Oceans Healthy Planet
5th June, 2015 - 7th June 2015
NEC FRIM, Kepong
MNS-FRIM-SHELL NATURE EDUCATION CENTRE (NEC)
3.
NEC School Holiday Camp is back!! This summer in June in conjunction with the World Oceans Day, our holiday camps for kids that are designed to instill an appreciation for their natural environment will focus on the study of
marine life and ocean conservation. Your children are going to embark on an unforgettable adventure filled with fun
while learning to become marine champions in the aim of protecting our awesome oceanic wonders.
The camp will include hands-on activities, up-close marine diversity encounters at Aquaria KLCC, stream sampling,
nature walk and other fun and educational experiences. We are now open for enrollment and welcome young adventurers aged between 7 to 15 years of age. We’re going to have loads of fun in the sun and a WHALE of a time learning about the ocean and loving it!
Fee: RM 250/child for MNS /K PA members
RM 280/ child for Non-MNS member
Fee inclusive of meals, accommodation, insurance,
entry fee into FRIM and certificate.
Payment Details: Bank in to MNS account:
Maybank
: 012138304679
HSBC
: 305-194920-108
NOTE: Please fax or email the bank in receipt and
retain it as proof of payment. The same has to be
presented to us on the actual day of the commencement of the camp. **(Get your family/group discount
by registering in a group of 3 kids and above)
To book contact :
Siti Mastura Nasah/Wan Noor Zalikha
Phone: 03-62771703 / 019-7768243
Fax: 03-62754376
Email: nec@mns.org.my
REGISTRATION DETAILS:
Nature Camp Theme: SHP: Healthy Oceans Healthy
Planet
Date:
5th - 7th June, 2015
Name:
Gender:
Age:
Birth cert/ IC number:
Parent’s name:
MNS membership no:
Contact number:
E-mail:
Address:
Vegetarian: YES/NO
On Medication: YES/NO (If yes, please
specfy :__________)
Car plate number (for entrance to FRIM):
** Please attach together with the copy of bank in receipt
of your payment.
PROPOSED ITERINARY
DAY
Day 1
05/06/15
Friday
TIME
1500
1530
1600
1630
1830
1900
2000
2100
2230
2300
0630
0800
0830
Day 2
06/06/15
Saturday
Day 3
07/06/15
Sunday
1030
1200
1730
1800
1900
2000
2100
2230
2300
0630
0730
0800
0830
1030
1100
1230
1300
ACTIVITIES
Arrival & check in
Camp briefing and Ice Breaking
Tea Break / Solat Asar
Let’s Get Wet!
- Educational Games and activities for turtle conservation
- Stream Sampling
Rest & Relax
Dinner / Solat Maghrib
Night Walk
Ocean Talk and Video
Supper / Solat Isyak
Lights Off
Rise & Shine / Solat Subuh
Breakfast
Walk with Nature!
- Meet the Trees
- Forest Exploration
Rest & Relax and morning tea
Depart to Aquaria KLCC
- Activities/ Lunch / Solat Zohor at KLCC
Going Back to NEC
Rest & Relax / Solat Asar
Dinner and Solat Maghrib
Art & Craft
- Ocean Life Craft (**from recycle material)
- World Ocean Day Pledge
Movie Night
Supper / Solat Isyak
Lights Off
Rise & Shine / Solat Subuh
Morning Exercise
Breakfast
Ocean Games: Ocean Ladder
Pack & clean
Presentation: Ocean Life! followed by Closing ceremony
Refreshment
Adjourn
** This itinerary is subject to change
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
Medications
Suitable clothing and extra change: such as Tshirt, track bottom, Sport shoes for trekking,
casual footwear for regular use, towel, light
jacket or sweater, raincoat, cap / hat
Toiletries such as toothbrush, toothpaste, soap
& shampoo
Insect repellent & sunscreen
Plastic bags (to pack dirty and wet cloth)
Water bottles (water will be provided for refill)
Torch light
Notebook / pen
Sleeping bag (if any)
For Muslim participants ~ telekong or sarung &
prayer mat and tudung for muslimah
NEC will provide the following
1.
2.
3.
4.
Catered halal meals
Accommodation (dormitory)
Bed sheet, blanket, pillow and pillow case
Insurance coverage
14th June, 2015 (Sunday)
Trip to Genting Tea Estate, Pahang
Selangor Branch is organizing the annual visit to the home of Dato’ Henry Barlow. This is open to
MNS members only. The house is 1.5 miles down a field road accessible from above the tunnel at
Genting Sempah. The gate will open only at10.00 a.m.
A brief introductory talk at 11.00 a.m. will be followed by a walk around the orchard
(sensible shoes recommended), arriving back at the house in time for lunch. Cold beverage will be
provided. Bring your own picnic lunch and enjoy the lush, verdant serenity at the lawn with your
family and friends. After lunch, Dato’ Henry will give a talk on his extensive collection of moths and
butterflies.
This trip is suitable for a family outing for children of 8 years and above. Carpooling is recommended as parking space is limited.
For registration and enquiries, please contact Shirley Tan (Nature Guide SIG) at shirleytan7@gmail.com or sms her at 019-3175047.
REGISTRATION DETAILS:
1) Full name
2) MNS membership no. and expiry date
3) Email address and hp. no.
Please note that Family membership covers the immediate family, and includes only children below
18 years old. If you are bringing your children, please provide their full name and dates of birth.
The meeting point & time : Genting Sempah R & R carpark, outside McDonald-- 9.15 a.m.
Book early as places are limited.
Disclaimer: All events’ times and venues are correct at the time of publishing this newsletter. For latest updates, kindly contact the Special
Interest Group or check the MNS website. Booking priority might be given to the organizing branch’s members unless stated otherwise.
MAY 2015
The MNS Bird Conservation Council
Meeting (BCC) 2015 will be held as follows:
Date: May 16 2015 (Saturday)
Time: 10.00am
Venue: Malaysian Nature Society (Persatuan Pencinta Alam
Maalaysia), JKR 641, Jalan Kelantan, Bukit Persekutuan, 50480
KL,
GPS Coordinates: 3.1397°N, 101.6812°E
Agenda
i) Report of BCC for year 2014-2015 by Acting BCC Chairman
ii) Election of BCC committee for new term 2015-2016
iii) Election of RSG committee for term 2015-2016
All MNS members are cordially invited to attend
the meeting. Light refreshment may be served.
Introduction to
MY GARDEN BIRDWATCH
Long Birding Trip to Taman Negara Kuala Tahan
Date: 23rd May, 2015 to 26th May, 2015
Selangor Bird Group is organising a 3 nights 4 days birding trip to Taman Negara, Kuala Tahan. The trip is open to
MNS members only.
Cost of trip is RM400.00 per person. This covers the following expenses, basic accommodation, 9 meals (3
breakfasts, 3 lunches and 3 dinners), transportation, insurance, boat trips and permits.
Maximum number of participants is limited to 20 and is on first-come first-serve basis, based on receipt of full payment. For further details and to confirm your bookings, please contact Heikal Pinto at 019-3399914 or email at
heikal.pinto@yahoo.com.
NOTE: No refund will be given for those who cancel their trip.
Kuala Tahan is a village located at the confluence of the Tahan and Tembiling Rivers in the state of Pahang. The Park was established in 1939 and it is the known to be one of the oldest tropical rainforest in the world. It has evolved over a span of a hundred
million years and its rich flora and fauna is truly a feast to every sense. Expect the birds to be more vocal and active as this is close
to the breeding season. Boat trips will be organized, to take us to less crowded areas like, Blau/Yong hides and Kuala Trenggan for
birding.
28.06.15 (Sun): Bird Watching trip to Sungai Perdik Forest Reserve, Hulu Langat, Selangor
Open to all MNS members.
An opportunity to see and identify common garden birds is
scheduled at Taman Rimba Kiara, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, Kuala
Lumpur from 7am-11am. Enjoy a bit of birdwatching as we carry
out a MOCK survey in the company of fellow citizen scientists.
(This prepares you for the actual MY Garden Birdwatch survey that is to be carried out on the 20th & 21st of June.)
It is suggested you wear suitable attire in dull colours, sunhat and
bring along a notebook and pencil/pen. Also bring along some
drinking water and a light snack. This event is suitable for the
whole family and those interested in learning more about Garden
birds. For details, please contact Lim Bing Yee +6012 250 9122
(whatsapp) or email chirp@mygardenbirdwatch.com
Come and join Selangor Branch Bird Group for a morning of bird watching at Sungai Perdik Forest Reserve. This is a popular retreat for locals
and is located in Hulu Langat, nestled beside a tropical rainforest. This is the time of the year when breeding season of most resident species
already peaked. There with likely be sightings of juveniles newly fledged. There may still be some vocalization, in breeding mood.
Meeting point & time: In front of the mosque at Pekan Batu 14 ( 14th mile ) Hulu Langat (3.112980, 101.815377) at 7.30 am. From here we will
convoy to the site.
Direction: From Cheras-Kajang Expressway, after passing Batu 9 Toll Plaza, take the 1st left turning. Follow this road straight till you reach a
traffic lights with a Police Station on the right, take a left turn into Jalan Hulu Langat. Go straight along this long kampong road and look out for
the mosque on the left.
Bring along binoculars, drinking water, light snacks, mosquito repellant & umbrella/poncho. Wear dull colored clothes & comfortable shoes.
The event shall end at noon.
MOUNTAIN GOAL ADVENTURE CONSULTANT (742912-V)
Website: http://www.mymountaingoal.com
E-mail: goalus@mymountaingoal.com
Everest Base Camp via Gokyo lake trek from 24/09/2015 to 09/10/2015 (16D15N) (Confirm trip)
Experience the culture of the Sherpas en route to Khumbu village. Enjoy a climb to the scintillating Kalapattar
5,545m. /18190ft, one of the most spectacular vantage points in the Everest region. Explore enchanting views of
Everest, Pumori, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, Lhotse, Makalu and many other towering peaks.
Two free Training trips will provided for the Everest Base Camp trip.
Tamang Heritage with Langtang Trek from 10/10/2015 to 22/10/2015 (13D12N) (Confirm trip)
Tamang Heritage with Langtang Trek give an exciting trekking opportunity into the Himalayas with a mix of
mountain adventure and Himalayan culture. The Langtang region is as wild as any Tibetan highlands with idyllic
rural landscape and the rich cultural heritage of ethnic Nepalese Tamang people. Inspite of being just a few hours'
drive from Kathmandu, the trek along the off the beaten track of the rural and rugged mountains and the high passes dotted with chortens, stupas and prayer flags flapping in the wind make every trekker marvel and see the country is called a "Walker's Paradise". A land of magic, meditation, and shamanism., Langtang is also the region of
ancient Tibetan monasteries, rhododendron and bamboo forests, majestic waterfalls, snow-capped Himalayas, and
many sacred lakes, or what the devout practitioners call the "Kunda".
Two free Training trip will provided for the Tamang Heritage with Langtang trek.
Contact : Thong at goalus@mymountaingoal.com H/P : 016-6375622 (WhatsApp, Wechat and Viber) Off : 03-40248896
Further info please sign in http://www.mymountaingoal.com/backpackn-lantang2.htm
MNS HQ
JKR 541, Jalan Kelantan
Bukit Persekutuan, 50480
Kuala Lumpur
(just before the Seri Perdana turn off to
Jalan Mahameru)
Open: Monday –Friday ; 9:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
T: 03-22879422 F: 03-22878773
mns@mns.org.my www.mns.my
Membership: Leong Wee Chin
Branch Committee Members
JOHOR BRANCH
c/o Vincent Chow, 32, Jln Molek 3/11, Tmn
Molek, 81100 JB, Johor
Website: http://mnsjohor.blogspot.com/
Chairman Vincent Chow
vkkchow@yahoo.com
Vice Chair Wee Soon Chit
soonchit@hotmail.com
Secretary Belinda Wong Mei Lang
belinda@bellogistics.com
KEDAH BRANCH
3, Jalan Timur 1, Kawasan Perusahaan Mergong
Barrage, 05150 alor Setar, Kedah
kedahmns@yahoogroups.com
Chairman Left Kol Husamuddin bin Yaacob
husaya@gmail.com
Vice Chair Wan Muhaimin bin Wan J amil
wanatc@yahoo.com
Secretary Phang Fatt Khow
fkphang05@yahoo.com
KELANTAN BRANCH
204, Jln Sultan Yahya Petra, 15150 Kota
Bharu, Kelantan
meklawa@gmail.com
Chairman Aweng a/l Eh Rak
aweng@umk.edu.my
Vice Chair Amir Hamzah Abdul Shukor
amrieta@yahoo.com
Secretary Nazahatul Anis Amaludin
anisamaludin@gmail.com
LANGKAWI BRANCH
mnslangkawi@yahoogroups.com
Chairman Eric R. Sinnaya
morahols@gmail.com
Vice Chair Kamal Ibr ahim
ezkamal@gmail.com
Secretary Pr eti Babu Sashikant
summerfurnishing@yahoo.com
NEGERI SEMBILAN/ MELAKA BRANCH
Chairman Dr Zor ina Khalid
drzorina@moh.gov.my
Vice Chair Peter Loke
peterpkloke@yahoo.com
Secretary June Teng
MNS.N9Melaka@gmail.com
PAHANG BRANCH
30 1st Floor Jalan Gambut, 25000 Kuantan,
Pahang
mnsphg@yahoo.com.sg
Chairman Zela Azni binti Nahizan
palia_potter@yahoo.co.uk
Vice Chair Nur ul Azne Ibr ahim
puteriaznie@yahoo.com
Secretary Noor Hassikin Binti Hamsah
noor_hassikin@yahoo.com
PENANG BRANCH
Nature Information Centre (NIC),
673-B Jalan Kebun Bunga,
10350 Penang
Open: Monday –Saturday;
7:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m. (please call before visiting)
Website: www.geocities.com/mnspenang
mnspenang@yahoogroups.com
Chairman Tan Choo Eng
chooengtan@yahoo.com
Vice Chair J ames Ooi Teik Kok
jamesooiteikkok@yahoo.com
Secretary Tan Pek Tao, Peggy
tpeggypeach@yahoo.com
PERAK BRANCH
70, Jln Chan Chee Keong, Ipoh Garden South, 31400
Ipoh, Perak
mnsperak@yahoogroups.com
mnsperak@gmail.com
Chairman Ooi Beng Yean
bengyeah@gmail.com
Vice Chair Leow Kon Fah
leow_kingfisher@yahoo.com
Secretary Tham Yim Fong, Georgia
georgi8tham@yahoo.com
SABAH BRANCH
No. 5, Taman Bukit Saujana, Lorong Saujana 2, Jalan
Fung Yie Teng, 88460 Kolombong, Kota Kinabalu,
Sabah
mns_sabah@yahoo.com.sg
Chairman Anna Wong
anna888@ums.edu.my
Vice Chair J immy Omar
jemyomar@gmail.com
Secretary Dewina Saidin
dewinuwa@gmail.com
SABAH (SANDAKAN) BRANCH
Lot 322, Lorong Pertama 17, Taman Pertama, 90000
Sandakan, Sabah
Chairman Chong Ket Vui Dusun
dusun_chong@yahoo.com
Vice-Chair Gengadhar an G Pillai
genga_pillai@yahoo.com
Secretary Quah Joo Lee
jocquah104@gmail.com
SARAWAK (MIRI) BRANCH
mnsmiri@yahoo.com
Website: mnsmiri.blogspot.com
Chairman Musa Musbah
sammua@yahoo.com
Vice Chair Yeo Hong Yan, J ohn
drjyeo@gmail.com
Secretary Mair ead Boland
maireadgboland@gmail.com
SELANGOR BRANCH
c/o MNS HQ address
Website: www.mns.org.my/selangor
mns.selangor@gmail.com
E-group: malaysiannaturesociety@yahoo
groups.com
Chairman K. S. Goh, Henr y
henrygks10@gmail.com
Vice Chair Pasupathy J ayar aj
pasupathy_jayaraj@yahoo.com
Secretary Wong Pui May
wongpuimay@hotmail.com
TERENGGANU BRANCH
1926 Bukit Kubang Jambu,
20050 Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu
mnsterengganu@gmail.com
ChairmanWong Chee Ho
cheeho@umt.edu.my
Vice Chair Wee Seng Whatt
swwee88@gmail.com
Secretary Anuar Abdullah McAfee
anuar@ms.kusza.edu.my
SARAWAK (KUCHING) BRANCH
mnskuching@gmail.com
Chairman Anthony C. Sebastian
aonyxenvironmental@gmail.com
Vice Chair Rose Au Nyat J un
njau44@yahoo.com
Secretary Asha Devi Kaushal
princezhope@gmail.com
Computer Recycling
Collection Centre
The MNS Penang, Nature Information Centre (NIC) is a designated
recycling collection centre for old computers and computer parts by
the Penang City Council. Please send your unwanted computers and
parts to the NIC to be send for recycling by DOE approved recycling
establishment. Contact Kanda at 013-4537992 for more information
or check out Penang Branch web pages
Roots & Shoots,
What you do makes a difference and you have to decide what kind of difference
you want to make.
– Dr. Jane Goodall
Malaysia
In 1991, Dr Jane Goodall, the legendary primatologist and wildife conservationist, gave talks at
some schools in Tanzania. Then 12 students went to her home to further discuss some environmental issues they were facing, and what they could do about it. It was then, in such humble beginnings, that Roots
& Shoots, (aptly named to imply the young and the grass roots level where change begins) the non-profit
organisation focusing on environmental, conservation and humanitarian issues, was founded. Today,
Roots & Shoots has local chapters in over 132 countries, with more than 100,000 young people involved
in more than 8,000 local groups around the world. One of the original 12 students who met with Goodall
later became the environment minister of Tanzania. Another became the Roots & Shoots national director
for the Tanzanian chapter.
Following is an excerpt from an interview with Jane Goodall by Marianne Schnall “What it aims
to do, first of all - its main message is that that everyone of us makes an impact on the world every day.
And so it's helping individuals to understand that though they may feel their small actions don't make a
difference - which if it was just them, they would be right probably. But it's not just them and cumulatively our small decisions, choices, actions, make a very big difference. The other is that it's youth driven, so
it's young people sitting around either on their own or at their high school or university, or sitting with the
teacher if they're children in Kindergarten or first grade, or with parents, or with older children - it's
doesn't matter - thinking about the problems around them, talking about them, and then between them
choosing three projects that they feel would make things better: one for people, one for animals, and one
for the environment. So, in almost any group of kids, you get those passionate about animals, you get
some who want to really, really do community service for people and you have some who want to recycle
or clean streams or something like that. So every child can become involved in a project which they
helped to choose and about which they feel passionate. ”
Last year, the Malaysian chapter was established. It held its first activity, a fund-raiser, in December followed by it’s launch this January in Kuala Lumpur. In Malaysia, the Roots & Shoots programme
is supported by Berjaya Youth, an empowerment initiative set up by the Berjaya Corporation. More than
two thousand people came to hear her talk, “Reasons for Hope”, in the Berjaya Times Square Hotel in
Kuala Lumpur. "It is easy to be overwhelmed by feelings of hopelessness as we look around the world.
We are losing species at a terrible rate, the balance of nature is disturbed, and we are destroying our beautiful planet. We have fear about water supplies, where future energy will come from – and most recently
the developed world has been mired in an economic crisis. But in spite of all this I do have hope. “…”So
let’s move forward in this new millennium with hope, for without it all we can do is eat and drink the last
of our resources as we watch our planet slowly die. Let’s have faith in ourselves, in our intellect, in our
staunch spirit and in our young people. And let’s do the work that needs to be done, with love and compassion."
PENCINTA ALAM is a monthly newsletter made possible by dedicated volunteers
and contributors from the Malaysian Nature Society. Accuracy is the contributor’s
responsibility. The Editor reserves the right to edit for length and content.
Submissions: Articles including the author and photographers’ names (max. 800
words), advertisements, digital images (100 dpi & no larger than 640 x 480 pixels
& separately from the article), etc. must reach the Editor by the 13th of each
month (unless noted otherwise) via the following e-mail address: tapir2005@gmail.com.
Advertising rates:
Classifieds: RM5 per column inch
Quarter page ad: RM30
Half page ad: RM60
•All payments must be made to ‘Malaysian Nature Society Selangor Branch’.
•Please bank in cash or cheque to Maybank Account no 014150307352.
•After banking in, please scan the slip and e-mail it with your advertisement to:
tapir2005@gmail.com and berniechin118@yahoo.com.
Discount rate for ads paid in advance:
3 adverts paid in advance – 5% off published rate;
6 adverts paid in advance – 10% off published rate;
9 adverts paid in advance –15% off published rate;
12 adverts paid in advance – 20% off published rate.
This issue’s editor : Alina Thomas
Next issue’s editor : Hui Min Khor
Renew Your Membership via Online Credit Card Payment
Settling your MNS membership fee is now made easier with on-line credit card payment via the MNS
website.
To renew, please visit https://www.mns.my/subscription/.
For inquiries, contact Wee Chin at membership@mns.org.my
Don’t Leave Home Without It
All members are required to show their membership cards to participate in any of the Branch‘s
activities. New members who haven't received
their cards will be required to show their membership payment receipts. Lost your card?
Contact Wee Chin at HQ.
Budding writers, naturalists and travel-bugs.
Have you been to an MNS activity lately?
Why not share your experience with other
members by writing an account of your activity
and submitting it (preferably with photographs)
for publication in Percinta Alam.
Email your article to: tapir2005@gmail.com