MNS has influenced me positively ... by Lim Swee Yian

8 Mar 2008

Dear Editor,



In the blink of an eye and I have been a member of MNS for nearly 30 years now. I can still remember my first ever camping trip. As a student member, I volunteered for a survey of the Pantai Kerachut Forest Reserve in Penang Island with the Penang Branch. My tarpaulin was blown off in the middle of the night and it started to rain. My next camping trip was when I volunteered to help with the Children’s Nature Camp in Papan when I rejoined as a Perak Branch member. This time I could afford a proper tent so I had a very comfortable time.



In the beginning, joining MNS was like joining the circus to see the world. As a member I got to do adventurous activities – caving, hiking, camping, etc. The more I join in MNS activities, the more I realise that we are fast losing our natural heritage. I become more aware about environmental issues. I begin to care and think about what I can contribute as an individual. At home, my husband and I have changed almost all the bulbs to the energy-saving type. We have redesigned the roof gutter to direct rain water into drums for watering plants. The only waste we throw out is food waste, the rest is recycled. Our garden is a bit small for a compost heap but one day, we would start one. Granted that none of these are earth shattering actions or will have much impact on their own but we hope our little bit will add up with others’ little bits to make a substantial difference.



I am writing this letter to share with you how MNS has influenced me positively and enriched my life. I look forward to being a member of Perak MNS for the rest of my life.



Lim Swee Yian