Creating Awareness Amongst Youth on The Importance of Coastal and Mangrove Ecosystem in Penang

Abstract

The coastal and mangrove ecosystem have proved to be amongst the most important
ecosystem. It is the most important breeding ground and habitat for many organisms apart from
the marine species. Despite the increasing awareness regarding the importance of this
ecosystem, the destruction of mangrove forest continues to take place due to economic and
political demands. With that, our research team in USM with the collaboration with other
international universities is currently conducting research in Tanjung Rhu, Langkawi, Sungai
Rusa, Penang and Matang Reserve Forest, Perak. Hence, the aim of this project was to monitor
the ecosystem health and most importantly create awareness on the importance of the
ecosystem to our daily lives among the youth. The total of 30 selected students from 3 schools
participated in this programme. These schools are within close proximity to the mangrove area.
The students were given the opportunity to conduct the research together with the researchers
from USM. Student were given hands on exposure during the field work. Having the nature as
their class room has enhanced their enthusiasms and learning experience. Students were given
lectures and notes in regards to the research activity. The field trip was conducted at two
different areas, disturbed and undisturbed. The selected sites were at the mangrove area in
Sungai Rusa, Balik Pulau, Penang (disturbed area) and Matang Reserve Forest, Perak
(undisturbed area). This programme comprised lecture series and 2 field trips.