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Showing posts with label Environment. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Environment. Show all posts
Mini RaSE: Duduk2 Baca Quran KLCC
Diploma in Environmental Health, Unisel
Environmental Health addresses all the physical, chemical and biological factors external to a person, and all the related factors impacting behaviours. It encompasses the assessment and control of those environmental factors that can potentially affect health. It is targeted towards preventing disease and creating health-supporting environments. This definition excludes behavior not related to environment, as well as behavior related to the social and cultural environment, and genetics.
PROGRAMME DESCRIPTION
Diploma in Environmental Health is a three years program including six months practical attachment. The first five semesters, students will be exposed to environmental health knowledge and any related issues arising such as the public health nuisance, environmental protection, food safety and sanitation, legal procedures and occupational safety and health. The last semester, students are placed to undergo practical attachment. In addition to the overriding themes, operational and communication skills are essential for environmental health practitioner.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
1. Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) or its equivalent
2. Certificate in a related field from a recognized institution with a CGPA of 2.00 and above OR
- Three (3) credits in SPM Including a PASS in any pure science subject (Biology / Physics / Chemistry) OR Credit in General Science) OR
3. Any other equivalent qualification recognized by the Malaysian government
COURSE EXPENSES
- Indicative tuition fee: RM31,620*
ACCREDITATION STATUS
- This program is accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) to have attained the quality standards and criteria set by the MQA and to be in compliance with the Malaysian Qualifications Framework.
- Date of Accreditation : 14 November 2010
- Registration No: A1836
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
1. Public Sector
- Local Authorities
- Institutions of Higher Education
- District Health Office
- Ministry of Housing and Local Government
- Cooperation of Solid Waste Management and Public Cleansing
2. Private Sector
- Environmental Consultant
- Food Industries
- Health Care Industries
- Environment Organization (Private Bodies / International)
- Pest Control Companies
Source: Brochure for Diploma in Environmental Health, Faculty of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Universiti Selangor. Address: Faculty of Biomedical & Health Sciences, Jalan Zirkon A 7/A, Seksyen 7, 40000, Shah Alam, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia. Tel:603-5522 3421.For more information, visit Diploma in Environmental Health Unisel official website HERE.
Punish litter bugs
FROM Bandar Sri Damansara and Kepong to Bukit Bintang and Ampang, the indications are clear that Kuala Lumpur is a dirty city.
It is an unhealthy situation that needs prompt and stern action by the authorities, including the municipal councils and Ministries of Health and Tourism.
Wherever you go -- shopping malls, train station, schools, car parks or back alleys -- you see rubbish dumped on pavements, floors and roads. The state of affairs is equally bad at bus stops, taxi stands, pavements and five-foot ways.
It is commonly known that street sweepers and rubbish collectors are not instructed or employed to clean many of these places which are glaring eyesores to passers-by, commuters, shoppers and tourists. There seems to be a "Who cares?" attitude.
There is a shortage of dustbins in Kuala Lumpur and other cities, which should be provided for by the authorities.
Building contractors and decorators have to share the blame for this deplorable situation which is also evident in Petaling Jaya and the city's outskirts. Contractors discard debris, bricks, stones and wood on roadsides near construction sites.
In Singapore and Hong Kong, the authorities are firmly against littering. Plain-clothes inspectors go out on the beat to catch offenders red-handed.
The authorities must act swiftly and seriously before mountains of trash build up and turn cities into slums.
Warning notices should be put up at construction sites and strategic locations to warn potential offenders. Inspections should also be made to ensure that residents, pedestrians, shopkeepers, builders and motorists abide by the law.
There ought to be a stern crackdown on the offenders. We have the regulations but no one is enforcing them. It is because of this lack of enforcement that they get away scot-free.
By Roselina Hajjar Taman Sri Batu Caves, Batu Caves, Selangor.
It is an unhealthy situation that needs prompt and stern action by the authorities, including the municipal councils and Ministries of Health and Tourism.
Wherever you go -- shopping malls, train station, schools, car parks or back alleys -- you see rubbish dumped on pavements, floors and roads. The state of affairs is equally bad at bus stops, taxi stands, pavements and five-foot ways.
It is commonly known that street sweepers and rubbish collectors are not instructed or employed to clean many of these places which are glaring eyesores to passers-by, commuters, shoppers and tourists. There seems to be a "Who cares?" attitude.
There is a shortage of dustbins in Kuala Lumpur and other cities, which should be provided for by the authorities.
Building contractors and decorators have to share the blame for this deplorable situation which is also evident in Petaling Jaya and the city's outskirts. Contractors discard debris, bricks, stones and wood on roadsides near construction sites.
In Singapore and Hong Kong, the authorities are firmly against littering. Plain-clothes inspectors go out on the beat to catch offenders red-handed.
The authorities must act swiftly and seriously before mountains of trash build up and turn cities into slums.
Warning notices should be put up at construction sites and strategic locations to warn potential offenders. Inspections should also be made to ensure that residents, pedestrians, shopkeepers, builders and motorists abide by the law.
There ought to be a stern crackdown on the offenders. We have the regulations but no one is enforcing them. It is because of this lack of enforcement that they get away scot-free.
By Roselina Hajjar Taman Sri Batu Caves, Batu Caves, Selangor.
Shah Alam landfill for PJ waste
TO enable better waste management in the city, all home and garden waste will soon be disposed of at Section 21 Shah Alam's landfill.
Petaling Jaya mayor Datuk Mohamad Roslan Sakiman said the current arrangement to dispose of city waste at Jeram, Kuala Selangor, was time consuming and inconvenient for the contractors.
The council hopes more frequent trips to a closer landfill in Shah Alam will ensure all waste in the city is collected on time.
During public holidays and weekends, the landfill at Jeram closes at 4pm.
The long journey slows the contractors from gathering more waste and disposing it of in time.
"We are waiting for approval from the authorities and once the matter is finalised, we can dispose of all waste at the Section 21, Shah Alam landfill instead of the one at Jeram,
"If this plan takes place, the contractors will also be able to save travel time. Jeram is too far for the contractors and they can't make more trips.
"The contractors also encounter difficulties getting rid of their garbage if they do not reach the landfill in Jeram in time.
"We can't blame the contractors for not clearing all the rubbish in the city, because they are faced with several problems.
"They can't take home the rubbish which they have collected if the landfill is closed when they arrive," said the mayor.
He hope by shifting to a closer landfill, the city's waste management will improve greatly.
Recently it was highlighted in the media that the mayor goes on his bike in the evenings to check on waste management in the city.
He observed that monitoring of waste collection by those in charge was found lacking.
By SHEILA SRI PRIYA
PETALING JAYA
streets@nstp.com.my
Petaling Jaya mayor Datuk Mohamad Roslan Sakiman said the current arrangement to dispose of city waste at Jeram, Kuala Selangor, was time consuming and inconvenient for the contractors.
The council hopes more frequent trips to a closer landfill in Shah Alam will ensure all waste in the city is collected on time.
During public holidays and weekends, the landfill at Jeram closes at 4pm.
The long journey slows the contractors from gathering more waste and disposing it of in time.
"We are waiting for approval from the authorities and once the matter is finalised, we can dispose of all waste at the Section 21, Shah Alam landfill instead of the one at Jeram,
"If this plan takes place, the contractors will also be able to save travel time. Jeram is too far for the contractors and they can't make more trips.
"The contractors also encounter difficulties getting rid of their garbage if they do not reach the landfill in Jeram in time.
"We can't blame the contractors for not clearing all the rubbish in the city, because they are faced with several problems.
"They can't take home the rubbish which they have collected if the landfill is closed when they arrive," said the mayor.
He hope by shifting to a closer landfill, the city's waste management will improve greatly.
Recently it was highlighted in the media that the mayor goes on his bike in the evenings to check on waste management in the city.
He observed that monitoring of waste collection by those in charge was found lacking.
By SHEILA SRI PRIYA
PETALING JAYA
streets@nstp.com.my
Miri hit by water contamination
MIRI: Water supply to the city’s 300,000 residents was cut yesterday when a major diesel contamination was discovered at its main water treatment plant.
The plant was shut down at 8.30pm on Saturday immediately after the discovery.
The contamination was traced to a leaking skid tank at the fuel depot of a road construction company.
The Northern Sarawak Water Board (Laku) sent an emergency alert to oil companies to help clean up the spill in Sungai Liku in Lambir, feeding the water treatment plant.
More than 14,000 litres of diesel were believed to have leaked into the river from the skid tank, located 2km from the plant.
Laku general manager Lo Sun Onn said water supply was reduced to a trickle in the city and resulted in dry taps in Piasau, the Tudan resettlement area, Permyjaya and Kuala Baram.
Lo reassured residents that Laku had to draw water from its emergency storage but this was only good for five hours. “However, the clean-up of the river went faster than expected and we have started to treat the water again. Supply should be back to normal by tomorrow (today),” he said last night.
However, residential areas further away from Lambir, like Kuala Baram, its surrounding areas, including Tudan and Permyjaya, and those on high ground, like Taman Tuanku and Taman Jelita, will only have their water supply restored later in the day.
Sarawak Shell Berhad (SSB) and Petronas responded to Laku’s request to send men and equipment to Lambir to help in the clean-up.
An SSB spokesman said a thorough clean-up could take several days and would be difficult as much of the spilled diesel had seeped into the river bed.
The water disruption triggered a rush to buy bottled mineral water.
A resident, Joshua J, said he was among hundreds who rushed to stores to stock up on bottled mineral water. The rush prompted some store owners to hike up the price of mineral water.
“I bought a carton of 1.5-litre bottles for RM9 although the normal price is between RM7 and RM8. Friends now tell me they had to pay RM12, RM13 and RM14 per carton.”
Critical areas, like hospitals, have been assured of water supply but some small hotels have reportedly refused to take in guests.
By DESMOND DAVIDSON
The plant was shut down at 8.30pm on Saturday immediately after the discovery.
The contamination was traced to a leaking skid tank at the fuel depot of a road construction company.
The Northern Sarawak Water Board (Laku) sent an emergency alert to oil companies to help clean up the spill in Sungai Liku in Lambir, feeding the water treatment plant.
More than 14,000 litres of diesel were believed to have leaked into the river from the skid tank, located 2km from the plant.
Laku general manager Lo Sun Onn said water supply was reduced to a trickle in the city and resulted in dry taps in Piasau, the Tudan resettlement area, Permyjaya and Kuala Baram.
Lo reassured residents that Laku had to draw water from its emergency storage but this was only good for five hours. “However, the clean-up of the river went faster than expected and we have started to treat the water again. Supply should be back to normal by tomorrow (today),” he said last night.
However, residential areas further away from Lambir, like Kuala Baram, its surrounding areas, including Tudan and Permyjaya, and those on high ground, like Taman Tuanku and Taman Jelita, will only have their water supply restored later in the day.
Sarawak Shell Berhad (SSB) and Petronas responded to Laku’s request to send men and equipment to Lambir to help in the clean-up.
An SSB spokesman said a thorough clean-up could take several days and would be difficult as much of the spilled diesel had seeped into the river bed.
The water disruption triggered a rush to buy bottled mineral water.
A resident, Joshua J, said he was among hundreds who rushed to stores to stock up on bottled mineral water. The rush prompted some store owners to hike up the price of mineral water.
“I bought a carton of 1.5-litre bottles for RM9 although the normal price is between RM7 and RM8. Friends now tell me they had to pay RM12, RM13 and RM14 per carton.”
Critical areas, like hospitals, have been assured of water supply but some small hotels have reportedly refused to take in guests.
By DESMOND DAVIDSON
Kanak-kanak Orang Asli dikhuatiri dijangkiti virus air kencing tikus
JERANTUT: Tiga kanak-kanak Orang Asli dari Kampung Sungai Lintah di sini, dimasukkan ke Hospital Jerantut semalam selepas dikhuatiri dijangkiti virus air kencing tikus atau leptospirosis.
Menurut sumber hospital tersebut, kanak-kanak Orang Asli berkenaan, Arini Mary a/p Yusof, 4, Muliana a/p Yusof, 5, dan sepupu mereka, Jun a/p Man, 11, kini ditempatkan di bilik berasingan di wad kanak-kanak hospital itu.
"Ketiga-tiga mereka didapati mengalami komplikasi demam kuning, sakit kepala dan lesu," katanya ketika dihubungi, di sini hari ini. Menurut sumber berkenaan, pihak hospital mengambil sampel darah mereka dan keputusan dijangka diketahui dalam tempoh dua minggu ini.
"Kanak-kanak ini sudah ditempatkan di bilik berasingan untuk memudahkan pegawai perubatan memantau rawatan dan perkembangan kesihatannya," katanya.
Menurut sumber itu lagi, jika keadaan ketiga-tiga kanak-kanak itu semakin teruk, mereka akan dipindahkan ke Hospital Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah (Hoshas) di Temerloh bagi mendapatkan rawatan lanjut.
Sementara itu, ibu kepada Arini Mary dan Muliana, Musliza a/p Batin Bakar, 30, ketika ditemui di sini, berkata anaknya dan sepupu mereka sebelum itu dipercayai minum dan makan di satu majlis kenduri di kampung Orang Asli Sungai Petai, dekat sini baru-baru ini.
Musliza berkata, selepas pulang dari kenduri itu, anaknya dan sepupunya itu mengalami demam dan tidak berselera makan.
"Melihat keadaan mereka semakin teruk, mereka kemudiannya di bawa ke hospital dan kini ditahan di wad," katanya. - BERNAMA
Menurut sumber hospital tersebut, kanak-kanak Orang Asli berkenaan, Arini Mary a/p Yusof, 4, Muliana a/p Yusof, 5, dan sepupu mereka, Jun a/p Man, 11, kini ditempatkan di bilik berasingan di wad kanak-kanak hospital itu.
"Ketiga-tiga mereka didapati mengalami komplikasi demam kuning, sakit kepala dan lesu," katanya ketika dihubungi, di sini hari ini. Menurut sumber berkenaan, pihak hospital mengambil sampel darah mereka dan keputusan dijangka diketahui dalam tempoh dua minggu ini.
"Kanak-kanak ini sudah ditempatkan di bilik berasingan untuk memudahkan pegawai perubatan memantau rawatan dan perkembangan kesihatannya," katanya.
Menurut sumber itu lagi, jika keadaan ketiga-tiga kanak-kanak itu semakin teruk, mereka akan dipindahkan ke Hospital Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah (Hoshas) di Temerloh bagi mendapatkan rawatan lanjut.
Sementara itu, ibu kepada Arini Mary dan Muliana, Musliza a/p Batin Bakar, 30, ketika ditemui di sini, berkata anaknya dan sepupu mereka sebelum itu dipercayai minum dan makan di satu majlis kenduri di kampung Orang Asli Sungai Petai, dekat sini baru-baru ini.
Musliza berkata, selepas pulang dari kenduri itu, anaknya dan sepupunya itu mengalami demam dan tidak berselera makan.
"Melihat keadaan mereka semakin teruk, mereka kemudiannya di bawa ke hospital dan kini ditahan di wad," katanya. - BERNAMA
Love for the environment
It has been an eventful 12 months in the Klang Valley. StarMetro Yearender series continues with spotlights on Shah Alam, Subang Jaya and Selayang.
One of the notable initiatives this year was the Shah Alam Rivers and Trees For Life programme by the Shah Alam City Council (MBSA) together with government agencies and several non-governmental organisations.
NGOs such as Eco Warriors, Trees for Life, Sathya Sai Baba centre, Leo Club and public and private institutions of learning planted about 40,000 fruit trees in the city.
The project, which began in April, involved about 1,500 volunteers and covered areas along the Damansara River, Renggam River and the Jelutong Industrial area.
Mayor Datuk Mohd Jaafar Mohd Atan will also be upgrading the 51.7ha Shah Alam Lake Gardens in the next three years to attract more visitors not only from Shah Alam but also those living in the Klang Valley.
Environmentalists and non-governmental organisations gave brownie points to the mayor when he decided to plant fruit tress like guava, soursop, mangosteen as well as ornamental ones like the weeping willows instead of raintrees in parks and the city.
“When we have fruits trees, birds and insects will make the park their home,” Mohd Jaafar said.
With a well planned city-within-a park concept in mind, Mohd Jaafar should now look into his other promise of making the city a cleaner one.
Certain areas which were far from towns and those highly populated housing areas like Taman Sri Muda which was once listed as a clean zone is now a far cry from its previous state.
Roads and other public amenities such as food courts, football fields, markets and the public halls should also be given the same attention as these areas are common meeting areas for residents.
The indiscriminate dumping of rubbish by factories in the Klang river has caused much anger among Taman Sri Muda residents.
This ongoing problem was apparent especially during high tide and rainy weather when the rubbish from Petaling Jaya and Kuala Lumpur is washed up in Shah Alam and Klang.
The dumping of rubbish in upstream areas is affecting residents living downstream.
One can see the huge amount of rubbish including styrofoam boxes and bags of unwanted material floating in the river near Taman Sri Muda.
MBSA public relations officer Shahrin Ahmad said the council had been monitoring the river’s condition on behalf of the Drainage and Irrigation Department which was responsible for the cleaning up process.
“Such incidents only happen during a downpour. So far we have not received any complaints from the public since the one that took place early this year,” said Shahrin.
In December, Mohd Jaafar introduced yet another green initiative with a landscape design competition for its 28 roundabouts in the city.
The contest, which is open to public, was aimed at drawing a new image and identity for Shah Alam.
Among the popular roundabouts were Bulatan Kayangan, Bulatan Megawati, JVC roundabout and UiTM roundabout.
‘The mayor had said that the roundabouts should be the identity of Shah Alam so that they would leave a lasting impression on visitors and tourists.
“The designs could also reflect the city’s culture and tradition,” he said, adding that people often related Shah Alam to roundabouts.
The council also bought iPads for all its heads of department and council’s branch offices to reduce the use of paper.
“We have meetings every other day and these officers have to print a stack of documents,
“By enforcing that they have to bring the iPads for meetings, we hope to reduce the usage of paper,” he said, adding that councillors who attend the monthly full board meeting had also been going digital this year.
Senior citizens and the disabled had a pleasant surprise when the council launched its community vehicle to cater to their needs.
The van provides free transport from their homes to health clinics in Section 7, Section 19 and Bukit Kuda in Klang as well as the Sungai Buloh Hospital, Universiti Malaya Medical Centre and the Univesiti Kebangsaan Hospital in Cheras.
The daily service available from 8am to 5pm was an initiative by the council to help the old folk and the disabled to seek medical assistance.
There is no hospital nearby and the nearest government hospital is either in Klang or in Petaling Jaya,
Travelling in a taxi can cost a lot and the free service was to help them save money.
Five months after being appointed mayor in May, Datuk Mohd Jaafar Mohd Atan faced a boycott against him.
Several councillors protested in the usually quiet council meeting after they failed to secure contracts for themselves and their cronies.
The councillors were apparently unhappy that Mohd jaafar did not entertain their request for contracts.
The councillors had approached Mohd Jaafar for favours by asking for on-the-spot maintenance jobs that were below RM20,000. The mayor stuck to his decision in ensuring that good governance was upheld within the council.
By CHRISTINA LOW
christinalow@thestar.com.my
One of the notable initiatives this year was the Shah Alam Rivers and Trees For Life programme by the Shah Alam City Council (MBSA) together with government agencies and several non-governmental organisations.
NGOs such as Eco Warriors, Trees for Life, Sathya Sai Baba centre, Leo Club and public and private institutions of learning planted about 40,000 fruit trees in the city.
The project, which began in April, involved about 1,500 volunteers and covered areas along the Damansara River, Renggam River and the Jelutong Industrial area.
Mayor Datuk Mohd Jaafar Mohd Atan will also be upgrading the 51.7ha Shah Alam Lake Gardens in the next three years to attract more visitors not only from Shah Alam but also those living in the Klang Valley.
Environmentalists and non-governmental organisations gave brownie points to the mayor when he decided to plant fruit tress like guava, soursop, mangosteen as well as ornamental ones like the weeping willows instead of raintrees in parks and the city.
“When we have fruits trees, birds and insects will make the park their home,” Mohd Jaafar said.
With a well planned city-within-a park concept in mind, Mohd Jaafar should now look into his other promise of making the city a cleaner one.
Certain areas which were far from towns and those highly populated housing areas like Taman Sri Muda which was once listed as a clean zone is now a far cry from its previous state.
Roads and other public amenities such as food courts, football fields, markets and the public halls should also be given the same attention as these areas are common meeting areas for residents.
The indiscriminate dumping of rubbish by factories in the Klang river has caused much anger among Taman Sri Muda residents.
This ongoing problem was apparent especially during high tide and rainy weather when the rubbish from Petaling Jaya and Kuala Lumpur is washed up in Shah Alam and Klang.
The dumping of rubbish in upstream areas is affecting residents living downstream.
One can see the huge amount of rubbish including styrofoam boxes and bags of unwanted material floating in the river near Taman Sri Muda.
MBSA public relations officer Shahrin Ahmad said the council had been monitoring the river’s condition on behalf of the Drainage and Irrigation Department which was responsible for the cleaning up process.
“Such incidents only happen during a downpour. So far we have not received any complaints from the public since the one that took place early this year,” said Shahrin.
In December, Mohd Jaafar introduced yet another green initiative with a landscape design competition for its 28 roundabouts in the city.
The contest, which is open to public, was aimed at drawing a new image and identity for Shah Alam.
Among the popular roundabouts were Bulatan Kayangan, Bulatan Megawati, JVC roundabout and UiTM roundabout.
‘The mayor had said that the roundabouts should be the identity of Shah Alam so that they would leave a lasting impression on visitors and tourists.
“The designs could also reflect the city’s culture and tradition,” he said, adding that people often related Shah Alam to roundabouts.
The council also bought iPads for all its heads of department and council’s branch offices to reduce the use of paper.
“We have meetings every other day and these officers have to print a stack of documents,
“By enforcing that they have to bring the iPads for meetings, we hope to reduce the usage of paper,” he said, adding that councillors who attend the monthly full board meeting had also been going digital this year.
Senior citizens and the disabled had a pleasant surprise when the council launched its community vehicle to cater to their needs.
The van provides free transport from their homes to health clinics in Section 7, Section 19 and Bukit Kuda in Klang as well as the Sungai Buloh Hospital, Universiti Malaya Medical Centre and the Univesiti Kebangsaan Hospital in Cheras.
The daily service available from 8am to 5pm was an initiative by the council to help the old folk and the disabled to seek medical assistance.
There is no hospital nearby and the nearest government hospital is either in Klang or in Petaling Jaya,
Travelling in a taxi can cost a lot and the free service was to help them save money.
Five months after being appointed mayor in May, Datuk Mohd Jaafar Mohd Atan faced a boycott against him.
Several councillors protested in the usually quiet council meeting after they failed to secure contracts for themselves and their cronies.
The councillors were apparently unhappy that Mohd jaafar did not entertain their request for contracts.
The councillors had approached Mohd Jaafar for favours by asking for on-the-spot maintenance jobs that were below RM20,000. The mayor stuck to his decision in ensuring that good governance was upheld within the council.
By CHRISTINA LOW
christinalow@thestar.com.my
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
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
Setting a record in recycling
JOHOR BARU: It took more than 4,000 recycled egg trays and 100 cans of paint for Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) students to enter the Malaysia Book of Records.
The 60m by 6m project was a first to enter the record books for the biggest painted logo on recycled egg trays in the country and all for the sake of environmental awareness.
A team of 107 people from UTM led by the project’s organising chairperson Chong Wei Hoong, spent 12 days hand painting each tray with environmentally friendly paint during their free time.
He added that it took them about three weeks to collect all the egg trays, which they gathered from various shops on and off campus.
“The masterpiece will be exhibited at the campus’s football field for a few weeks to bring awareness to UTM’s student and staff to lead a greener lifestyle,” he said during the opening ceremony of the university’s Green Generation programme here yesterday.
Chong added that other than the university and sponsors’ logos, they also painted bicycles and a picture of the Earth to remind students to love nature.
Meanwhile, in his speech read out by the Energy, Green Technology and Water Ministry deputy secretary-general Nor’aini Abdul Wahab, minister Datuk Seri Peter Chin said that green transformation would not be successful without the cooperation from all parties.
“Green transformation will not only help us secure a clean environment for our next generation, it will also benefit our economy because there are unlimited opportunities to venture into green business,” he said.
By YEE XIANG YUN
xiangyun@thestar.com.my
The 60m by 6m project was a first to enter the record books for the biggest painted logo on recycled egg trays in the country and all for the sake of environmental awareness.
A team of 107 people from UTM led by the project’s organising chairperson Chong Wei Hoong, spent 12 days hand painting each tray with environmentally friendly paint during their free time.
He added that it took them about three weeks to collect all the egg trays, which they gathered from various shops on and off campus.
“The masterpiece will be exhibited at the campus’s football field for a few weeks to bring awareness to UTM’s student and staff to lead a greener lifestyle,” he said during the opening ceremony of the university’s Green Generation programme here yesterday.
Chong added that other than the university and sponsors’ logos, they also painted bicycles and a picture of the Earth to remind students to love nature.
Meanwhile, in his speech read out by the Energy, Green Technology and Water Ministry deputy secretary-general Nor’aini Abdul Wahab, minister Datuk Seri Peter Chin said that green transformation would not be successful without the cooperation from all parties.
“Green transformation will not only help us secure a clean environment for our next generation, it will also benefit our economy because there are unlimited opportunities to venture into green business,” he said.
By YEE XIANG YUN
xiangyun@thestar.com.my
Do your part for the environs
KUALA LUMPUR: The people have been urged to do their part for the environment and not just leave it to the authorities.
Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek said protection of the environment depended on initiatives by the Government and private bodies.
“Everybody must be committed and have a greater awareness of their responsibility in protecting the environment,” said the MCA president after launching the GoGreen Winter Solstice Celebration 2011.
“It is the individual's action that matters most. For example, if you buy a loaf of bread, (you will find that) it is already inside plastic. Some still want another bag to put the bread inside, which is unnecessary.
Dr Chua said the “traditional teaching” of “reduce, reuse and recycle” is still relevant.
“Another example is household waste which, until today, we do not take efforts to separate. We just dump everything into the dustbin.
“Kitchen waste can be dangerous because it releases methane gas. But if methane is properly treated, it can produce energy. Kitchen waste can also be recycled as fertiliser. But we are not doing it,” said Dr Chua, a former health minister.
The GoGreen Winter Solstice Celebration was organised by the Malaysia Youth 4 EcoGreen Coalition (MY4Eco).
MY4Eco founder Lim Teck Hoe said festive occasions, like the Winter Solstice celebration, was one of the best avenues to promote environmental awareness.
“For example, for the Winter Solstice celebration, we could play our role by not wasting food.”
Besides a tang yuan (glutinous rice ball dessert) making session, the event also featured a catwalk with models wearing clothing made out of organic material.
There were performances by Malaysian Idol winner Daniel Lee and Jeffry “Beatboxer Tuxy” Goh.
Source: The Star Online 23 Dec 2011
Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek said protection of the environment depended on initiatives by the Government and private bodies.
“Everybody must be committed and have a greater awareness of their responsibility in protecting the environment,” said the MCA president after launching the GoGreen Winter Solstice Celebration 2011.
“It is the individual's action that matters most. For example, if you buy a loaf of bread, (you will find that) it is already inside plastic. Some still want another bag to put the bread inside, which is unnecessary.
Dr Chua said the “traditional teaching” of “reduce, reuse and recycle” is still relevant.
“Another example is household waste which, until today, we do not take efforts to separate. We just dump everything into the dustbin.
“Kitchen waste can be dangerous because it releases methane gas. But if methane is properly treated, it can produce energy. Kitchen waste can also be recycled as fertiliser. But we are not doing it,” said Dr Chua, a former health minister.
The GoGreen Winter Solstice Celebration was organised by the Malaysia Youth 4 EcoGreen Coalition (MY4Eco).
MY4Eco founder Lim Teck Hoe said festive occasions, like the Winter Solstice celebration, was one of the best avenues to promote environmental awareness.
“For example, for the Winter Solstice celebration, we could play our role by not wasting food.”
Besides a tang yuan (glutinous rice ball dessert) making session, the event also featured a catwalk with models wearing clothing made out of organic material.
There were performances by Malaysian Idol winner Daniel Lee and Jeffry “Beatboxer Tuxy” Goh.
Source: The Star Online 23 Dec 2011
Know how to create awareness on the environment?
KUALA LUMPUR: If you have an out-of-the-box idea on how to raise environmental awareness effectively, let us know, said Energy, Green Technology and Water Minister Datuk Seri Peter Chin Fa Kui.
“Many are still unaware of environmental issues, so we want to send the message out more aggressively,” he said.
“However, the ministry cannot do it alone, so we need the public to come forward,” he added at the launch of the Green Kids television programme at Angkasapuri here yesterday.
Green Kids focuses on environmental preservation and use of green technology, and is targeted at children aged from six to 12. The pilot episode will air over TV2 at 5.30pm on Jan 28.
The programme is a collaboration be- tween the ministry and the Malaysian Green Technology Corporation (GreenTech Malaysia).
The first season has 13 episodes with five different segments. Each episode will run for 30 minutes.
Chin hoped that the programme would inspire the younger generation to contribute towards developing green technology and conserving the environment.
Source: The Star Online 23 Dec 2011
“Many are still unaware of environmental issues, so we want to send the message out more aggressively,” he said.
“However, the ministry cannot do it alone, so we need the public to come forward,” he added at the launch of the Green Kids television programme at Angkasapuri here yesterday.
Green Kids focuses on environmental preservation and use of green technology, and is targeted at children aged from six to 12. The pilot episode will air over TV2 at 5.30pm on Jan 28.
The programme is a collaboration be- tween the ministry and the Malaysian Green Technology Corporation (GreenTech Malaysia).
The first season has 13 episodes with five different segments. Each episode will run for 30 minutes.
Chin hoped that the programme would inspire the younger generation to contribute towards developing green technology and conserving the environment.
Source: The Star Online 23 Dec 2011
Dapur tempat paling kotor
Benarkah dapur adalah tempat paling kotor jika dibandingkan dengan tandas?
Menurut Ketua dan Perunding Pakar Perubatan Kanan, Penyakit Berjangkit, Jabatan Perubatan, Hospital Sungai Buloh, Dr. Christopher Lee, setiap orang akan membersihkan tandas berulang kali tetapi kurang melakukannya di dapur.
Persepsi ini bakal berubah andainya anda didedahkan dengan realiti bahawa barangan
terkotor di rumah rupa-rupanya bukan di tandas tetapi dapur anda.
Satu kaji selidik Kebersihan Global Dettol baru-baru ini mendedahkan, kain pengelap di dapur merupakan antara barangan universal paling tercemar dalam sesebuah isi rumah.
Di Malaysia pula, 100 peratus kain pengelap di dapur didapati sangat tercemar. Cuba bayangkan apa akan berlaku apabila kain pengelap yang sama digunakan untuk kerja-kerja membersih? Alamatnya, risiko tempat-tempat yang dibersihkan itu terkena sebaran bakteria turut bertambah.
Si ibu atau suri rumah pula tidak mengendahkan perkara tersebut sehingga meningkatkan risiko jangkitan pada kanak-kanak.
Penyakit berjangkit
Menurut laporan Dana Kanak-kanak Pertubuhan Bangsa-Bangsa Bersatu (UNICEF), lebih kurang 1.1 juta kematian kanak-kanak di seluruh dunia adalah akibat penyakit berjangkit yang menyebabkan cirit-birit. Tidak hairanlah penyakit berjangkit dan parasitik berada di tempat keempat dalam senarai penyebab utama kemasukan ke hospital di Malaysia pada tahun 2010 .
Selain itu, kes-kes keracunan makanan, tuberkulosis dan HFMD (penyakit tangan, kaki dan mulut) adalah antara penyakit berjangkit tertinggi di negara ini. Penyebaran penyakit berjangkit di Malaysia memerlukan pemahaman yang lebih mendalam mengenai sifat bakteria, dekontaminasi yang berkesan dan pencetus bagi mengekalkan amalan kebersihan yang betul.
Pakar kebersihan Dettol berkerjasama dengan Majlis Kebersihan Global bagi mengumpul maklumat mendalam daripada kajian dan memberi cadangan praktikal untuk meningkatkan taraf kebersihan dan kesihatan. Kajian Bakteria Hidup Dettol menunjukkan bahawa kuman seperti E. coli dan Salmonella, yang mengakibatkan keracunan makanan serius boleh hidup di atas permukaan di rumah bagi tempoh yang lama, di mana S. aureus berupaya untuk hidup selama 48 jam.
Tambahan pula, bakteria akan kekal hidup dua atau tiga kali lebih lama dalam kain yang lembap berbanding dengan kain yang kering, sekali gus meningkatkan risiko jangkitan.
"Hasil kajian daripada Kajian Bakteria Hidup Dettol menekankan bahawa permukaan yang kelihatan bersih mungkin masih mengandungi kuman-kuman merbahaya. Bakteria boleh meningkatkan risiko jangkitan di antara lokasi-lokasi utama kebersihan seperti permukaan di dapur, tombol pintu dan span cucian di mana jangkitan berlaku melalui tangan atau kain lap.
Secara khususnya, adalah terbukti bahawa membasuh tangan selepas menggunakan tandas atau sebelum mengendalikan makanan boleh mengurangkan insiden cirit-birit di kalangan kanak-kanak sebanyak hampir 50 peratus.
Maka, adalah penting bahawa kita mengamalkan tabiat kebersihan baik seperti, menyah kuman dan membasuh tangan dengan kerap bagi memutuskan rantai jangkitan," kata Pengarah Pemasaran, Malaysia, Nikhilesh Kalra.
Oleh RABIATUL ADAWIYAH KOH ABDULLAH
adawiyah.koh@utusan.com.my
Menurut Ketua dan Perunding Pakar Perubatan Kanan, Penyakit Berjangkit, Jabatan Perubatan, Hospital Sungai Buloh, Dr. Christopher Lee, setiap orang akan membersihkan tandas berulang kali tetapi kurang melakukannya di dapur.
Persepsi ini bakal berubah andainya anda didedahkan dengan realiti bahawa barangan
terkotor di rumah rupa-rupanya bukan di tandas tetapi dapur anda.
Satu kaji selidik Kebersihan Global Dettol baru-baru ini mendedahkan, kain pengelap di dapur merupakan antara barangan universal paling tercemar dalam sesebuah isi rumah.
Di Malaysia pula, 100 peratus kain pengelap di dapur didapati sangat tercemar. Cuba bayangkan apa akan berlaku apabila kain pengelap yang sama digunakan untuk kerja-kerja membersih? Alamatnya, risiko tempat-tempat yang dibersihkan itu terkena sebaran bakteria turut bertambah.
Si ibu atau suri rumah pula tidak mengendahkan perkara tersebut sehingga meningkatkan risiko jangkitan pada kanak-kanak.
Penyakit berjangkit
Menurut laporan Dana Kanak-kanak Pertubuhan Bangsa-Bangsa Bersatu (UNICEF), lebih kurang 1.1 juta kematian kanak-kanak di seluruh dunia adalah akibat penyakit berjangkit yang menyebabkan cirit-birit. Tidak hairanlah penyakit berjangkit dan parasitik berada di tempat keempat dalam senarai penyebab utama kemasukan ke hospital di Malaysia pada tahun 2010 .
Selain itu, kes-kes keracunan makanan, tuberkulosis dan HFMD (penyakit tangan, kaki dan mulut) adalah antara penyakit berjangkit tertinggi di negara ini. Penyebaran penyakit berjangkit di Malaysia memerlukan pemahaman yang lebih mendalam mengenai sifat bakteria, dekontaminasi yang berkesan dan pencetus bagi mengekalkan amalan kebersihan yang betul.
Pakar kebersihan Dettol berkerjasama dengan Majlis Kebersihan Global bagi mengumpul maklumat mendalam daripada kajian dan memberi cadangan praktikal untuk meningkatkan taraf kebersihan dan kesihatan. Kajian Bakteria Hidup Dettol menunjukkan bahawa kuman seperti E. coli dan Salmonella, yang mengakibatkan keracunan makanan serius boleh hidup di atas permukaan di rumah bagi tempoh yang lama, di mana S. aureus berupaya untuk hidup selama 48 jam.
Tambahan pula, bakteria akan kekal hidup dua atau tiga kali lebih lama dalam kain yang lembap berbanding dengan kain yang kering, sekali gus meningkatkan risiko jangkitan.
"Hasil kajian daripada Kajian Bakteria Hidup Dettol menekankan bahawa permukaan yang kelihatan bersih mungkin masih mengandungi kuman-kuman merbahaya. Bakteria boleh meningkatkan risiko jangkitan di antara lokasi-lokasi utama kebersihan seperti permukaan di dapur, tombol pintu dan span cucian di mana jangkitan berlaku melalui tangan atau kain lap.
Secara khususnya, adalah terbukti bahawa membasuh tangan selepas menggunakan tandas atau sebelum mengendalikan makanan boleh mengurangkan insiden cirit-birit di kalangan kanak-kanak sebanyak hampir 50 peratus.
Maka, adalah penting bahawa kita mengamalkan tabiat kebersihan baik seperti, menyah kuman dan membasuh tangan dengan kerap bagi memutuskan rantai jangkitan," kata Pengarah Pemasaran, Malaysia, Nikhilesh Kalra.
Oleh RABIATUL ADAWIYAH KOH ABDULLAH
adawiyah.koh@utusan.com.my
Kuala Lumpur’s SMART Tunnel not looking so smart anymore
THE SMART Tunnel is the pride and joy of the authorities who have always touted it as the ultimate solution to the flood problems in Kuala Lumpur. When the project was rushed to be opened in January 2007, we were all told that the floods that hit the city a few months earlier would be the last as the tunnel was the longest and biggest storm drain project in South-East Asia.
True enough, for several years our capital city seemed to have been spared from any deluge despite some heavy downpour. Motorists were irritated when the tunnel had to be closed to accommodate the draining of rainwater to the retention ponds but, generally, city folk were impressed with the workings of the RM1.9bil Storm Water Management and Road Tunnel project - until last Tuesday.
That was the day Jalan Tun Razak, Jalan Semarak and Kampung Baru were flooded just like how it was in 2006, when the worst flood ever hit the city centre. It was as if we were like Bangkok a few weeks ago. What happened to the SMART Tunnel?
A spokesman for SMART had said that had it not been for the SMART Tunnel, KL would have experienced much worse flooding last week.
It also seems that the river that burst its bank was Sungai Bunus. It flows though the Kampung Baru-Jalan Tun Razak-Jalan Semarak area and this waterway was not covered under the SMART Tunnel scope.
So, there is now a need to come up with a flood mitigation project to resolve this “new problem”.
At Monday's Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) budget meeting, KL Mayor Tan Sri Ahmad Fuad Ismail announced an allocation of RM85mil for flood mitigation works, including RM20mil for the Federal Territory Drainage and Irrigation Department (DID) to divert water from Sg Bunus to Lake Titiwangsa. This, he said, was to help mitigate the recent flooding along Jalan Tun Razak.
Why was this not thought of earlier when billions were being spent on the SMART Tunnel and the other flood mitigation projects implemented over the years? Why is it after a few hours of downpour in 2011 that Sg Bunus has suddenly become a problem?
In fact in 2007 seven projects costing millions were carried out in various flood hot spots in the city.
Some of these “long-term” measures include building floodwater retention ponds, upgrading drainage and diverting water from one river to another. All of these projects were completed and yes, many of them are effective.
Sg Bunus seems like a new problem, one caused by rapid unplanned development.
There have been new projects built along and even over Sg Bunus. Could it be that these developments are the cause of the floods? Instead of just spending millions of ringgit only on flood mitigation projects, the authorities should also carry out studies of how rivers or even storm drains in Kuala Lumpur are impacted by nearby development.
Source: The Star 21.12.2011
True enough, for several years our capital city seemed to have been spared from any deluge despite some heavy downpour. Motorists were irritated when the tunnel had to be closed to accommodate the draining of rainwater to the retention ponds but, generally, city folk were impressed with the workings of the RM1.9bil Storm Water Management and Road Tunnel project - until last Tuesday.
That was the day Jalan Tun Razak, Jalan Semarak and Kampung Baru were flooded just like how it was in 2006, when the worst flood ever hit the city centre. It was as if we were like Bangkok a few weeks ago. What happened to the SMART Tunnel?
A spokesman for SMART had said that had it not been for the SMART Tunnel, KL would have experienced much worse flooding last week.
It also seems that the river that burst its bank was Sungai Bunus. It flows though the Kampung Baru-Jalan Tun Razak-Jalan Semarak area and this waterway was not covered under the SMART Tunnel scope.
So, there is now a need to come up with a flood mitigation project to resolve this “new problem”.
At Monday's Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) budget meeting, KL Mayor Tan Sri Ahmad Fuad Ismail announced an allocation of RM85mil for flood mitigation works, including RM20mil for the Federal Territory Drainage and Irrigation Department (DID) to divert water from Sg Bunus to Lake Titiwangsa. This, he said, was to help mitigate the recent flooding along Jalan Tun Razak.
Why was this not thought of earlier when billions were being spent on the SMART Tunnel and the other flood mitigation projects implemented over the years? Why is it after a few hours of downpour in 2011 that Sg Bunus has suddenly become a problem?
In fact in 2007 seven projects costing millions were carried out in various flood hot spots in the city.
Some of these “long-term” measures include building floodwater retention ponds, upgrading drainage and diverting water from one river to another. All of these projects were completed and yes, many of them are effective.
Sg Bunus seems like a new problem, one caused by rapid unplanned development.
There have been new projects built along and even over Sg Bunus. Could it be that these developments are the cause of the floods? Instead of just spending millions of ringgit only on flood mitigation projects, the authorities should also carry out studies of how rivers or even storm drains in Kuala Lumpur are impacted by nearby development.
Source: The Star 21.12.2011
Recycling pewter to help conserve nature
The collection, which is made of recycled pewter, consists of three pendants and three sculptures designed by sculptors Zainal Abidin Musa and Tengku Sabri Tengku Ibrahim.
Royal Selangor international general manager Yong Yoon Li said a third of the sales proceeds would go towards MNS's efforts to conserve forests and wildlife.
"The launch of this collection highlights not only our efforts in recycling natural resources but also MNS's efforts to conserve the 130 million-year-old Belum rainforest.
"We are honoured to have Tengku Sabri and Zainal lend their artistic touch to create such a beautiful and unique collection," said Yong.
Tengku Sabri's Beragas, Bakbon and Kerong sculptures were inspired by tales from his childhood.
Zainal designed three pendants called Fern, Pinang and Lover's Pod.
"My collection was inspired by animals, plants and insects that live in the forest," he said.
Royal Selangor launched its pewter donation campaign in June. Up to September, Yong said, about 200 unwanted pewter items had been collected.
"We are grateful to those who contributed unwanted pewter items for recycling," he said.
Yong added that companies such as Petronas had donated pewter items to support the cause.
Petronas senior general manager (group corporate affairs) Datuk Mohammad Medan Abdullah was at the launch.
Source: Nor Ain Mohamed Radhi, NST
Royal Selangor international general manager Yong Yoon Li said a third of the sales proceeds would go towards MNS's efforts to conserve forests and wildlife.
"The launch of this collection highlights not only our efforts in recycling natural resources but also MNS's efforts to conserve the 130 million-year-old Belum rainforest.
"We are honoured to have Tengku Sabri and Zainal lend their artistic touch to create such a beautiful and unique collection," said Yong.
Tengku Sabri's Beragas, Bakbon and Kerong sculptures were inspired by tales from his childhood.
Zainal designed three pendants called Fern, Pinang and Lover's Pod.
"My collection was inspired by animals, plants and insects that live in the forest," he said.
Royal Selangor launched its pewter donation campaign in June. Up to September, Yong said, about 200 unwanted pewter items had been collected.
"We are grateful to those who contributed unwanted pewter items for recycling," he said.
Yong added that companies such as Petronas had donated pewter items to support the cause.
Petronas senior general manager (group corporate affairs) Datuk Mohammad Medan Abdullah was at the launch.
Source: Nor Ain Mohamed Radhi, NST
Beware of bogus recycling centres
Pertubuhan Amal Seri Sinar founder and president Datuk Eadon Ching said some organisations claimed to be non-governmental organisations (NGOs) but were actually companies running businesses.
"Most people will respond positively when approached or after finding out about a recycling campaign, without checking the organisation's background.
"We have come across a few supposedly non-profit organisations that are actually commercial enterprises. We came to know about them as the organisations were registered as companies with Sdn Bhd or Bhd in their names.
"The easiest way to find out about an organisation is through the Registrar of Societies (ROS). If the organisations are not registered with ROS, then they are illegal," he said during a recent visit to a recycling centre in Hulu Langat, Cheras.
He said the authorities should monitor activities and programmes of organisations which claimed to be non-profit-making to make sure that the public would not fall prey to unscrupulous individuals.
"This may seem petty to some, but if you think carefully, it is not only morally wrong to deceive people by having a charity front.
"Before this happens, we have to give a clear message to those taking advantage of people's good intentions to do charity work. In Singapore, such immoral acts would incur a jail term and fine."
He said he had informed the authorities about it, but it seemed that there was no specific law to stop individuals from collecting recyclable items from others.
"Charitable organisations like ours have to depend on public donations to maintain our daily operations including collecting items from the 272 recycle bins we placed at various places.
"The money we get from the recycling process would be used for our programmes and community events.
"However, some irresponsible people would simply exploit people's generosity to generate income for themselves," he said, adding that the most common items received were books, bottles, clothes and newspapers.
"We provide free pick-up services for bulky items such as old furniture and electrical appliances.
"We hire staff and technicians to make sure that the items are fixed before donating them or sending them to countries like Myanmar and Laos."
He advised the public to at least check the organisations' websites before contributing to them.
"If the website has not been updated for a long time, then you know that the organisation is not active."
Ching, who is a businessman, got the idea to set up the society in 2003 after receiving encouragement from friends.
Apart from recycling and environmental campaigns including tree-planting, Pertubuhan Seri Sinar also goes to schools and residential areas to increase awareness on the importance to practice 3R (reduce, reuse and recycle) in one's daily life.
The association collects 60 tonnes of items daily, of which 60 per cent comprised clothes.
Source: NURADZIMMAH DAIM
KUALA LUMPUR
streets@nstp.com.my
"Most people will respond positively when approached or after finding out about a recycling campaign, without checking the organisation's background.
"We have come across a few supposedly non-profit organisations that are actually commercial enterprises. We came to know about them as the organisations were registered as companies with Sdn Bhd or Bhd in their names.
"The easiest way to find out about an organisation is through the Registrar of Societies (ROS). If the organisations are not registered with ROS, then they are illegal," he said during a recent visit to a recycling centre in Hulu Langat, Cheras.
He said the authorities should monitor activities and programmes of organisations which claimed to be non-profit-making to make sure that the public would not fall prey to unscrupulous individuals.
"This may seem petty to some, but if you think carefully, it is not only morally wrong to deceive people by having a charity front.
"Before this happens, we have to give a clear message to those taking advantage of people's good intentions to do charity work. In Singapore, such immoral acts would incur a jail term and fine."
He said he had informed the authorities about it, but it seemed that there was no specific law to stop individuals from collecting recyclable items from others.
"Charitable organisations like ours have to depend on public donations to maintain our daily operations including collecting items from the 272 recycle bins we placed at various places.
"The money we get from the recycling process would be used for our programmes and community events.
"However, some irresponsible people would simply exploit people's generosity to generate income for themselves," he said, adding that the most common items received were books, bottles, clothes and newspapers.
"We provide free pick-up services for bulky items such as old furniture and electrical appliances.
"We hire staff and technicians to make sure that the items are fixed before donating them or sending them to countries like Myanmar and Laos."
He advised the public to at least check the organisations' websites before contributing to them.
"If the website has not been updated for a long time, then you know that the organisation is not active."
Ching, who is a businessman, got the idea to set up the society in 2003 after receiving encouragement from friends.
Apart from recycling and environmental campaigns including tree-planting, Pertubuhan Seri Sinar also goes to schools and residential areas to increase awareness on the importance to practice 3R (reduce, reuse and recycle) in one's daily life.
The association collects 60 tonnes of items daily, of which 60 per cent comprised clothes.
Source: NURADZIMMAH DAIM
KUALA LUMPUR
streets@nstp.com.my
USJ goes a-planting
SUBANG JAYA: In efforts to reach its goal towards “Low Carbon City”, the Subang Jaya Municipal Council (MPSJ), with the help of various non-governmental organisations, recently planted 1,111 trees on a 3.2ha land at Persiaran Setia, USJ 3C.
About 200 volunteers and residents of USJ 3C were involved in the tree-planting exercise. They are from the Subang Jaya Rotary Club, Kingsley International School Putra Heights, Zone 3 Residents’ Committee (JKP Zon 3) and members of fire brigade from SS17 fire station
MPSJ president Datuk Asmawi Kasbi said the council’s aim is to plant 10,000 trees by 2020, under the Urban Community Forest project.
“This is our first big-scale project and it is just the beginning. Now that the lot has been gazetted as a public recreation park, we hope the trees will ensure that the carbon emission is reduced,” said Asmawi.
Also present were MPSJ deputy president Abdullah Marjunid, Subang Jaya assemblyman Hannah Yeoh, councillor Rajiv Rishyakaran and Kelana Jaya MP Loh Gwo Burne.
Among the tree species planted were Cengal, Kasai and Keruing.
Rajiv who is also the president for JKP Zon 3, said the project will be conducted in stages until the completion by 2020.
While waiting for the trees to grow, the next step is to build a gazebo, put up a proper fencing, a walking trail and a car park by next year.
To ensure that the project goes smoothly, the council has appointed the Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM), Forestry Department of Selangor and Malaysian Institute of Planners (MIP) as the project’s advisers.
Source: C. Premananthini
About 200 volunteers and residents of USJ 3C were involved in the tree-planting exercise. They are from the Subang Jaya Rotary Club, Kingsley International School Putra Heights, Zone 3 Residents’ Committee (JKP Zon 3) and members of fire brigade from SS17 fire station
MPSJ president Datuk Asmawi Kasbi said the council’s aim is to plant 10,000 trees by 2020, under the Urban Community Forest project.
“This is our first big-scale project and it is just the beginning. Now that the lot has been gazetted as a public recreation park, we hope the trees will ensure that the carbon emission is reduced,” said Asmawi.
Also present were MPSJ deputy president Abdullah Marjunid, Subang Jaya assemblyman Hannah Yeoh, councillor Rajiv Rishyakaran and Kelana Jaya MP Loh Gwo Burne.
Among the tree species planted were Cengal, Kasai and Keruing.
Rajiv who is also the president for JKP Zon 3, said the project will be conducted in stages until the completion by 2020.
While waiting for the trees to grow, the next step is to build a gazebo, put up a proper fencing, a walking trail and a car park by next year.
To ensure that the project goes smoothly, the council has appointed the Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM), Forestry Department of Selangor and Malaysian Institute of Planners (MIP) as the project’s advisers.
Source: C. Premananthini
Sunway preserves old trees
SUNWAY Group continues to show its commitment towards caring for the environment by transplanting 214 trees prior to the start of construction works at Sunway University.
One hundred and ninety-six trees, some reaching up to 15.2 metres in height have been transplanted at Sunway South Quay, Sunway Monash Residences and in Jalan Lagoon Selatan, near Sunway Medical Centre. The remaining 18 will also be sent to these places by end of the month.
The trees, Khaya senegalensis, Peltophorum pterocarpum and Samanea saman, were from Sunway University's football field and its open car park.
The special project was instructed by Sunway Group chairman Tan Sri Dr Jeffrey Cheah Fook Ling and is expected to be completed by next month.
The project is undertaken by Sunway Holdings Bhd group procurement adviser Alex Kong and Dekon Tajul Nursery and Landscaping Sdn Bhd project senior manager Uthayasooriyan Alagappan.
The trees have been removed to make way for a new 12-storey academic building in the open car park area as well as the construction of an underground car park, all scheduled for completion in 2013.
Uthayasooriyan said the cost of transplanting the trees is between RM5,000 and RM8,000 per tree, totaling about RM1.5 million.
The move, he added, ensures that matured trees are not chopped off.
"Usually developers cut down trees but Sunway Group treasures what it has," he said.
Big-John Tree Transplanter will help in the transplantation process.
Sunway University and Sunway Group of Colleges executive director Elizabeth F.Y. Lee said she was sad to see the 19-year-old trees removed.
"People who are with this university know the true value of these trees and the need for conservation," she said, adding that Cheah's decision was much appreciated by university members.
She said Sunway University also grooms its students to be environment lovers by planting the Flame of the Forest and Neem trees in its compound.
Students also collect recyclable items, sell eco-friendly merchandise at bazaars, watch documentaries on the environment, go paperless and restrict the use of plastic bags.
"Sunway Group has consistently instilled environment-friendly elements in its commercial, residential and educational development projects," she said.
Source: SARAH RAHIM
streets@nstp.com.my
One hundred and ninety-six trees, some reaching up to 15.2 metres in height have been transplanted at Sunway South Quay, Sunway Monash Residences and in Jalan Lagoon Selatan, near Sunway Medical Centre. The remaining 18 will also be sent to these places by end of the month.
The trees, Khaya senegalensis, Peltophorum pterocarpum and Samanea saman, were from Sunway University's football field and its open car park.
The special project was instructed by Sunway Group chairman Tan Sri Dr Jeffrey Cheah Fook Ling and is expected to be completed by next month.
The project is undertaken by Sunway Holdings Bhd group procurement adviser Alex Kong and Dekon Tajul Nursery and Landscaping Sdn Bhd project senior manager Uthayasooriyan Alagappan.
The trees have been removed to make way for a new 12-storey academic building in the open car park area as well as the construction of an underground car park, all scheduled for completion in 2013.
Uthayasooriyan said the cost of transplanting the trees is between RM5,000 and RM8,000 per tree, totaling about RM1.5 million.
The move, he added, ensures that matured trees are not chopped off.
"Usually developers cut down trees but Sunway Group treasures what it has," he said.
Big-John Tree Transplanter will help in the transplantation process.
Sunway University and Sunway Group of Colleges executive director Elizabeth F.Y. Lee said she was sad to see the 19-year-old trees removed.
"People who are with this university know the true value of these trees and the need for conservation," she said, adding that Cheah's decision was much appreciated by university members.
She said Sunway University also grooms its students to be environment lovers by planting the Flame of the Forest and Neem trees in its compound.
Students also collect recyclable items, sell eco-friendly merchandise at bazaars, watch documentaries on the environment, go paperless and restrict the use of plastic bags.
"Sunway Group has consistently instilled environment-friendly elements in its commercial, residential and educational development projects," she said.
Source: SARAH RAHIM
streets@nstp.com.my
Enough dustbins for everyone
SWM Environment Sdn Bhd is at its wits end over the irresponsibility of some people who dump huge piles of rubbish, then accuse SWM and the local authorities of not doing their work.
Among the areas affected are Seremban 2 and Senawang where residents leave heaps of rubbish, then call SWM and create a ruckus, claiming the company is not doing its work.
SWM Negri Sembilan general manager Dr Al Ashari Othman said he was aware of this tactic and had information on the culprits.
He said those involved wanted to discredit SWM even though there were sufficient dustbins in their areas to dispose of their rubbish properly.
"These irresponsible acts are aimed at discrediting our good name. We have a number of such cases and regret that these people are resorting to such dirty tactics."
He said each complaint received by SWM about bulk garbage disposal is immediately attended to.
He said there should be no case of illegal dumping as SWM is always willing to assist with the disposal of bulk garbage such as used furniture.
He said the public could contact SWM at 1-800-88-3200 if they need its service or to file a complaint.
"We hope the public will be our eyes and ears and report the activities of these unscrupulous people."
Source: RAMESH PILLAI
streets@nstp.com.my
Among the areas affected are Seremban 2 and Senawang where residents leave heaps of rubbish, then call SWM and create a ruckus, claiming the company is not doing its work.
SWM Negri Sembilan general manager Dr Al Ashari Othman said he was aware of this tactic and had information on the culprits.
He said those involved wanted to discredit SWM even though there were sufficient dustbins in their areas to dispose of their rubbish properly.
"These irresponsible acts are aimed at discrediting our good name. We have a number of such cases and regret that these people are resorting to such dirty tactics."
He said each complaint received by SWM about bulk garbage disposal is immediately attended to.
He said there should be no case of illegal dumping as SWM is always willing to assist with the disposal of bulk garbage such as used furniture.
He said the public could contact SWM at 1-800-88-3200 if they need its service or to file a complaint.
"We hope the public will be our eyes and ears and report the activities of these unscrupulous people."
Source: RAMESH PILLAI
streets@nstp.com.my
Envisioning a greener Earth
The company set itself a noble target when it launched an environment-friendly corporate social responsibility campaign themed "A million trees, a million dreams".
Shaklee Malaysia has always wanted to do its part to green the earth and at the same time advocate a cleaner, healthier and safer world.
That dream started materialising in 2009 when it teamed up with the Forest Research Institute of Malaysia to sponsor and plant trees at Kepong Botanical Garden, a former mining area which is now an educational public park.
Pushing ahead with its efforts to educate Malaysians on environmental issues and the need for growing trees, Shaklee Malaysia recently planted trees at Bukit Sungei Puteh Forest Reserve in Cheras for the second consecutive year with the cooperation of the Forestry Department.
The event, which was officiated by Natural Resources and Environment Deputy Minister Tan Sri Joseph Kurup, saw the company's employees, civil servants, guests and members of the media plant tree saplings.
The three-year cooperation between Shaklee Malaysia and the National Forestry Department started last year when the company sponsored RM10,000 worth of tree saplings and a trail measuring 226 metres long. The trail is to ensure that the park has facilities for visitors including the disabled.
"Reversing the unprecedented loss of biodiversity and saving our planet requires the effort of everyone," said Victor Lim, the regional general manager of Shaklee, Southeast Asia.
"Working with the Forestry Department in planting trees at this forest reserve is part of the company's effort in mitigating residual carbon emissions, while at the same time hoping to create valuable wildlife habitats and a forest park for people to enjoy and learn from," he said.
The company hoped that the choice of fruit trees for planting this time around would serve to attract birds, insects and other wildlife to this reserve and create biodiversity.
"Tree-planting is definitely one of the most potent ways to protect our planet, but people are either not doing enough of it or not doing anything at all," said Lim.
"Forests help to control climate. Some experts now call rainforests 'the air-conditioners of the world' because their dark depths absorb heat from the sun."
In his speech, Kurup said Shaklee's efforts was in line with the ministry's drive to plant 26 million trees by 2014 which would be capable of absorbing 200,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide.
The campaign, "Green The Earth: One Citizen, One Tree", was launched in April last year. More than 13 million trees have since been planted.
A total of 110 trees were planted during the event, including rambai hutan, sentul, keledang temponek, beruas and kandis .
Source: AVEEN MATHEW MENON
streets@nstp.com.my
Shaklee Malaysia has always wanted to do its part to green the earth and at the same time advocate a cleaner, healthier and safer world.
That dream started materialising in 2009 when it teamed up with the Forest Research Institute of Malaysia to sponsor and plant trees at Kepong Botanical Garden, a former mining area which is now an educational public park.
Pushing ahead with its efforts to educate Malaysians on environmental issues and the need for growing trees, Shaklee Malaysia recently planted trees at Bukit Sungei Puteh Forest Reserve in Cheras for the second consecutive year with the cooperation of the Forestry Department.
The event, which was officiated by Natural Resources and Environment Deputy Minister Tan Sri Joseph Kurup, saw the company's employees, civil servants, guests and members of the media plant tree saplings.
The three-year cooperation between Shaklee Malaysia and the National Forestry Department started last year when the company sponsored RM10,000 worth of tree saplings and a trail measuring 226 metres long. The trail is to ensure that the park has facilities for visitors including the disabled.
"Reversing the unprecedented loss of biodiversity and saving our planet requires the effort of everyone," said Victor Lim, the regional general manager of Shaklee, Southeast Asia.
"Working with the Forestry Department in planting trees at this forest reserve is part of the company's effort in mitigating residual carbon emissions, while at the same time hoping to create valuable wildlife habitats and a forest park for people to enjoy and learn from," he said.
The company hoped that the choice of fruit trees for planting this time around would serve to attract birds, insects and other wildlife to this reserve and create biodiversity.
"Tree-planting is definitely one of the most potent ways to protect our planet, but people are either not doing enough of it or not doing anything at all," said Lim.
"Forests help to control climate. Some experts now call rainforests 'the air-conditioners of the world' because their dark depths absorb heat from the sun."
In his speech, Kurup said Shaklee's efforts was in line with the ministry's drive to plant 26 million trees by 2014 which would be capable of absorbing 200,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide.
The campaign, "Green The Earth: One Citizen, One Tree", was launched in April last year. More than 13 million trees have since been planted.
A total of 110 trees were planted during the event, including rambai hutan, sentul, keledang temponek, beruas and kandis .
Source: AVEEN MATHEW MENON
streets@nstp.com.my
Safer option with ‘Taxis for Women’
PUBLIC transport is now safer for women with the launch of "Taxis for Women" by the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development yesterday.
Deputy Minister Datuk Heng Seai Kei said the project was in line with their aim of providing safe public transportation for women.
"These taxis are to cater to women, especially those who are used to travelling alone or with their children.
"We hope it will reduce the number of rape and robbery cases involving taxi drivers and female victims," she said.
According to Heng, the idea was to have taxis that were "driven by women, for women".
"Some 400 taxis will be on-call to ensure the safety and comfort of female passengers."
The service, which will be expanded in stages, currently has 50 taxis operating around the Klang Valley.
She said the service would also help create job opportunities for women, especially single mothers, housewives and pensioners, who were looking for another source of income for their family.
"It is an alternative for women, and those who are interested to pursue this career can also work in shifts to accommodate their schedule," she said.
The ministry and Abex Manufacturing Sdn Bhd are providing training and courses for those who were interested to become female taxi drivers, said Heng.
One of the taxi drivers Faridah Idris, 38, said the service provided female commuters a safer option to travel in.
"Women passengers are normally more comfortable with us.
"For female drivers, there are always risks when picking up passengers, especially at night.
"With this project, both female drivers and passengers can feel safer," she said.
The launch was held in conjunction with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women 2011 at the Bandar Tasik Selatan bus terminal.
Also present were Land Public Transport Commission chairman Tan Sri Syed Hamid Albar and Singapore High Commissioner, Ong Keng Yong.
Source: AISYAH SULAIMAN
aisyahs@nst.com.my
Deputy Minister Datuk Heng Seai Kei said the project was in line with their aim of providing safe public transportation for women.
"These taxis are to cater to women, especially those who are used to travelling alone or with their children.
"We hope it will reduce the number of rape and robbery cases involving taxi drivers and female victims," she said.
According to Heng, the idea was to have taxis that were "driven by women, for women".
"Some 400 taxis will be on-call to ensure the safety and comfort of female passengers."
The service, which will be expanded in stages, currently has 50 taxis operating around the Klang Valley.
She said the service would also help create job opportunities for women, especially single mothers, housewives and pensioners, who were looking for another source of income for their family.
"It is an alternative for women, and those who are interested to pursue this career can also work in shifts to accommodate their schedule," she said.
The ministry and Abex Manufacturing Sdn Bhd are providing training and courses for those who were interested to become female taxi drivers, said Heng.
One of the taxi drivers Faridah Idris, 38, said the service provided female commuters a safer option to travel in.
"Women passengers are normally more comfortable with us.
"For female drivers, there are always risks when picking up passengers, especially at night.
"With this project, both female drivers and passengers can feel safer," she said.
The launch was held in conjunction with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women 2011 at the Bandar Tasik Selatan bus terminal.
Also present were Land Public Transport Commission chairman Tan Sri Syed Hamid Albar and Singapore High Commissioner, Ong Keng Yong.
Source: AISYAH SULAIMAN
aisyahs@nst.com.my