Goodall’s farm tales enthral KL audience


The audience listening to Goodall speak at Tzu Chi Foundation Malaysia’s event in Kepong, Kuala Lumpur. — Photos: LOW BOON TAT/The Star

RENOWNED primatologist Dr Jane Goodall was four when her mother took her to a farm where she spent time feeding and caring for the animals.

She quickly became fascinated with the farm animals she saw there.

“People often ask what has made me love animals so much.

“I was born loving them, and my mother supported that love,” she said.

Speaking during a Tzu Chi Foundation Malaysia’s event in Kepong, Kuala Lumpur, Goodall, now 91, attributed her professional success to the support she received from her mother.

Goodall says her mother’s advice has resonated with her to this day.Goodall says her mother’s advice has resonated with her to this day.

“I remember wondering how eggs could come out of hens and my mother sat me down and explained it to me.

“A different kind of mother would have crushed that curiosity, but not her.

“Without her encouragement, I would not be where I am today,” she said.

Goodall’s interest in animals blossomed even further thanks to her mother who bought her lots of related books.

That early passion for animals would lead her to pursue her doctorate in animal behaviour in London, England.

She had no undergraduate degree in the area of study but an exception was made for her in recognition of her early field work in Tanzania and her academic potential.

In the mid-1960s, she received her PhD from the University of Cambridge.

It marked the beginning of her career as a wildlife expert.

Goodall’s work proved instrumental in the study of primate species.

She documented complex social interactions, including the bond between mothers and their offspring, as well as behaviours displayed during territorial disputes.

Her most influential work was probably her discovery that chimpanzees were capable of experiencing emotions.

Reflecting on her career, Goodall said her mother’s advice has resonated with her to this day.

“She said if I wanted to do this (animal study), I must work really hard and take advantage of every opportunity before me,” she recalled.

Goodall also remembered an exchange with an academic supervisor during her PhD course after she had named the primates under their care.

“I was told to use numbers when referring to the animals, to maintain objectivity and avoid becoming attached,” she said.

At the event, Goodall underscored the importance of protecting and conserving the environment and wildlife.

“We should remember that we have an impact on the planet and we can choose what that impact is,” she pointed out.

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