For a more beautiful waterfall

STUDENTS from Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) gathered early in the morning at Titi Kerawang in Balik Pulau, Penang, to clean up the waterfall and its surrounding.

The 30 students from Biosociety Club, Scuba Club and Aquatic Division of the varsity were volunteering in a nationwide waterfall cleaning campaign initiated by the Malay-sian Waterfall Lovers Association (PPATM).

Project public relation coordinator Quek Yew Aun, 21, said this programme was to educate youths on the importance of protecting nature.

He said that besides the clean-up on Saturday, there were also activities such as catching aquatic insects to check the water quality.

“These activities should tell us whether the water is polluted or not,” said Quek.

“Usually, if a stream is polluted, it will trigger the growth of dangerous microorganisms which can affect the health of humans.

“Later, the data will be sent to PPATM,” he said.

Project director Nurul Nabila Shohimi, 21, said the campaign not only raised awareness on conservation but was also useful for the students as they could learn about nature and apply what they learnt in the future.

School of Biology student Liu Kun Peng, 21, from China, said it was his second time joining a clean-up campaign.

“Nowadays, it is very difficult to find waterfalls or beaches with clean and clear water,” he said.

“Back in my country, people are busy chasing after wealth and they forget about the environment.”

Workers from Penang Municipal Council, Penang Forestry Department and Civil Defence Department were also present to help in the campaign.