Bridging The Youth, Restoring Mangrove Ecosystem: 582 Kg of Debris Cleared, 100 Saplings Planted
- EcoKnights
- November 25, 2023
- 12:12 pm
Written by: Shahirah Anuar
The entire team of 62 volunteers assembled at the big archways of Mangrove Point, ready to embark on their mission before the real work began
In a collaborative effort to nurture our coastal ecosystems, the Tree For Us Mangrove Conservation Programme, supported by Dow Malaysia and Singapore, unfolded its impactful chapters on the 25th of November, 2023, at the Mangrove Point. Situated in Kawasan 14 near the Klang River mouth, this conservation initiative spans approximately 70 acres of Selangor state land and the Hutan Simpan Kekal.
Our day started with 62 enthusiastic volunteers, a blend of passionate individuals from Dow employees and youth volunteers, gathered under the banner of environmental stewardship. The one and only mission on that particular day is to support an initiative of mangrove cleanup and sapling planting that would hopefully leave a lasting mark on the landscape. Mangrove Point features an exceptional mangrove ecosystem, surrounded by nature that promotes meditation, health, and well-being within a biophilic environment.
A picturesque view inside Mangrove Point, showcasing the vibrant greenery of thriving mangrove trees
The day commenced with the employees and volunteers who started their hard work in the mud and gunny sacks to remove common household and industrial debris, a testament to the team’s dedication to restoring the natural balance of our coastal habitats. More than a ton of waste, stemming from the Klang River, had accumulated in the mangrove site, necessitating regular efforts from volunteers to remove the debris. Coupled with heavy rainfall and irresponsible dumping of trash into the river, the condition at the mangrove site worsened.
Despite being covered in thick mud, these volunteers remained undeterred in their stewardship, diligently clearing debris at the planting area
Ultimately, the dedicated hard work of the volunteers paid off, resulting in the successful collection of 582 kg of waste in a remarkably short period. The cleanup, however, was only the first chapter of the day’s narrative. With sleeves rolled up and spirits high, the volunteers transitioned seamlessly into the planting phase in the same clean-up area, contributing to the growth of 100 new saplings of Rhizophora Mucronata commonly known as Bakau Kurap. These small, resilient beings hold the promise of a greener, healthier future for our coastal regions.
After wrapping up the cleanup, the volunteers jumped right into planting mangrove saplings, giving them more time to dive into the world of mangrove conservation
The success of such endeavours relies on collaborative partnerships. EcoKnights is grateful for the invaluable support extended by our sustainability partners, Selangor Maritime Gateway (SMG) and Jabatan Perhutanan Negeri Selangor. Their commitment to mangrove conservation has truly fueled the positive impact witnessed on this transformative day.
The community engagement, the collective cleanup efforts, and the growth of mangrove saplings signal not just a one-day event but a sustained commitment to the health of Malaysia’s mangrove ecosystems. If you are interested in joining our conservation initiatives or organising sustainable workshops for your area, school, or company, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at info@ecoknights.org.my. We would be thrilled to offer additional details and explore potential partnerships with you.
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