SIJANGKANG, 9 June 2024 – A group of students from Kolej Siswa Jaya (KSJ) at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) Kuala Lumpur successfully conducted a mangrove tree planting activity at Taman Rekreasi Paya Bakau in Kg. Sijangkang. This activity is part of an environmental awareness initiative aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). It was organized by KSJ and Malaysia-Japan International Institute of Technology (MJIIT) in collaboration with UTM Campus Sustainability (UTMCS) and the Section of Occupational Safety, Health, and Environment (OSHE) at UTM Kuala Lumpur.
The project aims to protect the mangrove ecosystem, which is essential for ecological stability and marine life in the area. As part of this effort, we have planted 60 Rhizophora mucronata seedlings, also known as Bakau Kurap. These seedlings are at least 55 cm tall and have four to six leaves.
The Bakau Kurap species was chosen because it thrives in swampy areas at river estuaries, where freshwater meets seawater. Taman Rekreasi Paya Bakau, Kg. Sijangkang is an ideal habitat for this species, as it helps maintain shoreline stability and reduce soil erosion.
Rhizophora apiculata, also known as Bakau Minyak, is suitable for the mangrove swamp area. Before planting, these trees should be at least 30 cm tall and have at least four leaves.
The Programme Director, Sharifah Aina Zarifah binti Syed Ahmad Zamri, announced that KSJ has successfully organized an education and awareness program focusing on the significance of oceans, marine biodiversity, and the challenges faced by oceans, such as plastic pollution and climate change.
“We recognize the crucial role of oceans and coastal ecosystems in our lives. One of the key initiatives we are undertaking today is planting mangrove trees. Mangroves not only safeguard the coast from erosion and natural disasters but also provide essential habitats for marine life, support diverse biodiversity, and act as effective carbon sinks, assisting in our efforts to alleviate the impacts of climate change,” stated Sharifah Aina Zarifah.
Community leader Mr. Suhaimi emphasized that the mangrove planting effort helps in environmental conservation and educates the younger generation about the importance of preserving ecosystems.
“Taman Rekreasi Paya Bakau – Kg. Sijangkang has a long history and is the only mangrove swamp in the area. We are proud to collaborate with UTM and these students in our efforts to conserve this area,” he mentioned.
The activity provided valuable experience for the students and contributed to environmental conservation efforts. This initiative is expected to have a positive long-term impact through close cooperation between the community, educational institutions, and park management. It is hoped that efforts like these will encourage more parties to engage in environmental conservation activities and work together to ensure the sustainability of ecosystems for future generations.