1,000 mangrove saplings planted to mark tsunami anniversary

STAFF of Honeywell Aerospace Avionics Malaysia joined Penang Inshore Fishermen Welfare Association (Pifwa) members to plant 1,000 mangrove plant saplings at Sungai Chenaam in conjunction with the seventh anniversary of the tsunami tragedy.

The United States-based company’s senior health and safety manager K.G. Bathmanathan said the company took part in the event under its corporate social responsibility and Go Green programme.

“This is a very meaningful programme as it reminds us to take care of our environment in an effort to reduce the impact of any natural disaster,” he said after taking part in the planting ceremony.

He also said the company hoped to make the event an annual affair.

Pifwa president Ilias Shafie said the association had planted 200,000 mangrove plant saplings in the coastal areas of Penang since 1997 to protect the environment.

“Pifwa planted the saplings following massive erosion along the coastline and this effort was intensified after the 2004 tsunami that hit several Asian countries in 2004.

“We will carry out similar programmes from time to time to create public awareness on the importance of saving mangrove swamps.

“People have to realise that these swamps could act as a buffer should a tidal wave hit the shoreline,” he said during the Boxing Day event.

Ilias also said in several parts of the world, mangrove trees had played a major role in saving lives during the 2004 tsunami.

Source: The Star Online 28 Dec 2011