W.A.T.E.R. a source of life
GAB Foundation recently collaborated with Global Environment Centre (GEC) in a project to clean Sungei Way, instil awareness and encourage sustainable living practices among the public.
The project called “Working Actively Through Education and Rehabilitation (Water)” involved 50 enthusiastic students from the Management &Science University (MSU). Together with the local residents, they got down and dirty, busily going about the full-day’s agenda.
SIGNIFICANT UNDERTAKING
Besides clearing up a nearby park and the river, participants of the Water project were taught how to execute pollution mapping and conduct water quality testing. They were also engaged in an interactive and informative discussion to enhance their understanding and appreciate the importance of keeping rivers clean as it is a vital source of water.
“Water is a key element of life. In Malaysia, 97%of water used for domestic, industrial and irrigation purposes come from rivers and reservoirs. As such, GAB Foundation is committed to drive greater awareness on the importance of protecting Malaysian rivers. We have spent more than RM 4 million on the Water project since 2007,” said GAB Foundation trustee Renuka Indrarajah.
BETTERMENT FOR ALL
The foundation has partnered with GEC before in implementing conservation projects. These were carried out with the support of relevant government agencies. “We have significantly improved the condition of Sungai Way,” stated Renuka, who also emphasised the importance of involving youth. Happy to have collaborated with MSU, she said, “We call on more people to take up the challenge and join our Water project initiatives.”
In 2007, the water quality index classified the 2km long Sungai Way as Class IV – V. In layman’s terms, this simply meant that the water in the river was heavily polluted and no living organism could survive in its condition. Three years into its river cleaning process and the river has been rehabilitated and water quality improved to Class III, which is suitable for living organisms.
Since its inception, the Water project has educated and engaged with over 3,000 people in its aim to help preserve key water sources around the country. The initiative is an ongoing project.