The Malaysian Nature Society (MNS) is saddened to hear of individuals who are still unaware and unconcerned about the destruction of the environment. To them, it is as if the environment is a burden, a pest to humans and must be rid of as soon as possible. After all the articles and research highlighted in the papers regarding the effects of degrading the environment, it is still a mystery how some people can still be so hard-headed.

The MNS is however glad to receive and read of replies in regards to the letter sent by Pro Development. It only goes to show that not all Malaysians are careless and ignorant about their environment and dare speak up for themselves, their future generations and for the environment itself. Recently there was a two- to three-page article in the Star regarding the lack of respect to Mother Nature. Here a report entitled Capacity Building and Strengthening of the Protected Areas System in Peninsular Malaysia – A Master Plan, was highlighted. This report states the existing and desired protected areas in the peninsula and indicates the inadequate protection given to our natural reserves. As citizens of a nation so blessed with such rich bio-diversity, we should strive to maintain and further protect these ever diminishing places. The report also states the dilemma faced by certain parties and local authorities in maintaining protected areas. Areas that are supposed to be protected but aren't, areas that are inadequately protected and of areas that are wrongly protected. Reports like the only surviving Malaysian fishing cat being found only in the Malacca Zoo, is a clear example why protection for these areas of high bio-diversity is important.

Development is a vital need of any nation, but sustainable development is the better way to develop our nation. It is saddening to read of areas such as peat swamps and mangroves not been given the protection they so well deserve. These areas act as filters and purifiers for the ground-water, but only 2% of the ideal level is under protection. Even worse was the comment by Pro Development that animals that threaten human lives, be shot. Every animal plays a vital role in the balancing the ecosystem. Like it or not, we do need the tigers, the wild boars, the elephants, even the cockroach. Just like humans, they too have the right to live.

The MNS hopes that the report on the protected areas in the Peninsula will soon be presented to the cabinet. It also hopes that civic-minded Malaysians will continue to defend and protect the environment before further damage is incurred, not only to the environment but to the whole nation as well. As what H.A. Ooi wrote in response to Pro Development, "we ultimately share the fate of our environment. Poison it in the name of development and we set ourselves on the road to our own destruction".

Dato' Dr. Salleh Mohd. Nor
President
Letter to the Editor
(Kuala Lumpur-30 September 1998)