PENANG: Students and educators from Wawasan Open University (WOU) and SM Teknik Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra (STAR Putra) planted mangrove saplings along the riverbank in Malindo Beach in Balik Pulau to protect the coastal environment.
The planting project was organised by WOU’s Centre for Foundation Studies (CFS) in collaboration with the Penang State Government and the Penang City Council (MBPP), in conjunction with National Environment Day that falls today.
Thirty-one students and four lecturers of WOU, together with 20 students and three teachers from STAR Putra, planted 400 mangrove saplings in Malindo Beach.
The planting project, costing an estimated RM8,500, was sponsored by the State Government (RM2,500), WOU (RM1,000) and a few local companies in the community.
The objective of this WOU-led collaborative project is to protect the mangrove swamps and conserve the natural environment. On hand to launch the collaborative effort was Penang State Executive Councillor for Housing and Environment, YB Dato’ Seri Sundarajoo Somu.
According to WOU Chief Executive and Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Lily Chan, “This venture in preserving our natural world is part of WOU’s service to the community. The project will aid in the restoration of shoreline stabilisation and buffering, which are essential to coastal communities.”
She further added, “It will moreover educate the students on the importance of protecting our environment and creating a more sustainable future for our planet. The students will be encouraged to know that they are making a difference, and bringing a positive impact to climate change through this simple planting of mangrove trees.”
The planting project also aligns with the University’s mission of incorporating environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles into its MPU Co-Curriculum course to its students.
Mangroves are important for Penang’s coastal communities, as they are a valuable source of food and income, besides helping to protect the environment and conserve marine life.
“By participating in this project, we are empowering our students to become good stewards of the environment,” Prof Chan emphasised.
Contact:
Rasidah Mion,
Corporate Communications Manager
rasidahbm@wou.edu.my
019 314 2003