Hi Everybody,
The branch AGM is just round the corner on
15 July 2000 and I would like to remind all members to try to attend
this year’s AGM to elect a new committee to further the cause of the MNS.
As this year is our 30th year of establishment in Perak the
committee has taken great pains to make it a memorable one which will benefit
all members who make an effort to attend. We are happy to inform
all members that we have been able to confirm that Datuk Lim Chong Keat
has accepted our invitation to give a talk on “Travels with Kunstler
and other botanists in Perak - Endangered Palms and Gingers”. Members would
miss a great opportunity to listen to a very eloquent speaker with a vast
knowledge of our historical, cultural and natural heritage. Earlier I had
attended a talk by Datuk Lim at the Heritage Hotel on the travels of Frank
Swettenham and felt my RM30.00 was worth every sen.
Members will also be treated
to Mr. Cheang Kum Seng’s professionally-crafted slide show which never
failed to please in the past. He has kindly consented to present a slide
show to MNS members during the coming National AGM in Penang. By the way
since Penang is only about 2 hours from Ipoh members should take the opportunity
to attend and have a good time in Penang which the Penang branch has promised
with pride. Personally I always find that Penang has a lot of surprises
and occupies a special place in my heart. Accomodation at RECSAM
at Gelugor is very convenient and affordable.
Since we are celebrating MNS 60th
anniversary and our branch’s 30th year of establishment we are a producing
a commemorative T-shirt which I hope everyone would buy at least one in
order that it would bring the unit price down. The committee has fixed
the price at RM17.00 for white fully combed cotton material (sizes S-L)
and RM18.00 for the back cotton material. If there are sufficient requests,
collared ones may be offered at a slightly higher price. RM2.00 will be
added for sizes XL and larger.
The Branch NERMC and office
is slowly but surely taking shape and soon it should function well to cater
to a wider spectrum of needs from the committee and members. I would like
to see our branch office functioning as soon as possible as it would
take a heavy load from my shoulders and my family would have more breathing
space as the branch evolves into a more dynamic one and its assets
accumulate. Some members cannot contribute without the branch providing
some basic as well as some more technical facilities. The office-bearers
would also be expected to do more quality work and, hopefully for a start,
this will attract more people to come forward to help the branch and contribute
towards the betterment of the MNS. I can now look forward to a long-needed
rest.
Penang Branch has produced
a Trail book that gives nature lovers a good guide to the nature trails
of Penang. Selangor branch has just got started to produce a similar book.
It is also about time Perak Branch do likewise and promote nature at a
higher level. I hope with the setting up of the NERMC it can be accomplished
efficiently and the facilities adequate to meet the challenges.
Looking back over the years I am satisfied
that we have indeed achieved something, in fact more what I would dream
of with our limited resources. Our achievements, though small in comparison
with other organisations, is a result of the tireless effort and sacrifices
of all concerned members. I salute and thank all of you involved. I also
see a brighter future for the MNS.
Love Life. Love Nature.
Cheaw Hon Ming
30 June 2000