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By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Sept 23: Canon Marketing Malaysia in collaboration with Malaysian Nature Society (MNS) Kuching and Kuching South City Council (MBKS) took a significant step today by planting some 100 indigenous trees within the Hornbill statue roundabout park beneath the Kenyalang Interchange and several other sites in MBKS’ jurisdiction.
Building on the success of previous tree-planting initiatives in Penang, Johor Bahru and Kuantan, this venture to Kuching marks Canon’s first foray into East Malaysia for its ‘One Canon One Tree’ campaign.
Furthermore, this partnership aligns with MBKS’ efforts to greening the Kuching South city, creating a mini rainforest to not only enhance the city’s aesthetic appeal but also, foster biodiversity, contribute to improved air quality and reduced urban heat island effect.
Commending this collaborative effort, MBKS mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng underscored the importance of collective community involvement, including both the corporate sector and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in safeguarding and sustaining the environment.
“Every small part by citizens will contribute to address climate-related challenges. We must make sure that this effort, be it small or big, continues. We work together for the common good of all,” he told reporters after officiating the campaign today.
Wee also highlighted the educational potential of this initiative, particularly for local communities, young children and students as they can learn and discover the rich diversity of indigenous tree species in Sarawak.
“A lot of people are not aware that there are over 3,000 indigenous tree species in Sarawak with the largest collection found in Semenggok Wildlife Centre.
“In MBKS, we have a lot of green spaces and parks and such initiative is most welcomed,” he added.
Canon Marketing Malaysia Kuching branch head Christopher Chin said this campaign represents an ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship.
“We believe in the power of collective action and through this partnership with MSN Kuching and MBKS, we are creating a lasting impact on our local environment,” he added.
MSN Kuching vice chair Solomon Hii expressed hope that this campaign would raise awareness not only among participants, but also within wider public about the importance of rewilding and regreening the city with native tree species.
He encouraged more people to actively engage in such impactful and meaningful tree planting activities.
MBKS Deputy Mayor Dato Dr Zaiedi Suhaili and Malesiana Tropicals Sdn Bhd chief tazonomist Peter Boyd were among those present. — DayakDaily
