I attended a discussion on organising the Organic Day 2009 last Wednesday night. The committee members which include representatives from CETDEM and Section 19 Residents Association went through the purpose of organising, format, proposed activities and etc. The purpose is to raise awareness about organic food leading to the sustainability living. One of the interesting and pertinent points for discourse was by promoting organic produce, we are asking people to buy and eat locally produce. However, it was discovered later that many of the products sold at the retail organic shops are imported stuffs. At this juncture, no many products are locally made and accredited.
The association of organic farming with environment is reducing the use of chemical pesticide and fertiliser, hence minimise the chances for food contamination and environmental pollution. It is also meant producing the required nutrients for plants at the source. For example, composts are generated from the local waste. Indirectly the idea is getting people to self sustain by having environmental life cycle of resources/waste for guidance. The farmers will convert the waste into resources and vice verse. It is also about reducing the carbon footprint.
Hence, the question of getting organic produce from oversea or elsewhere with a distance from the consumers is tantamount of against the objectives of encouraging organic farming, I presume. We have to encourage people of eating healthy with organic products, those locally produce instead of imported. Then, the questions of regulating, incentives, awareness raising and capacity building programmes, enforcement and etc have to be in place.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Catch22@PJ : Ecology or Economy from Hawkers
In the bid to provide more opportunity for hawking during this economic difficulty time, more temporary licenses have been issued for people to trade. License for stall selling seasoned fruit such as durian was issues along the Jalan SS2/24. While it is good for MBPJ to consider the economic plight of people, the good gesture has not reciprocated by hawkers with good ethic. The hawkers left their rubbish there unattended to and hence created haphazard to the environment. This is typical scene in around trading area of food premises. While everyone has a right to "cari makan", it is also not wrong to say that they have the social responsibility to behave for good and take care about our environment, or at least the public places surrounded them, right? We are in the Catch 22 situation now. Having stern enforcement actions will invite criticism of victimising the small traders, doing nothing will get residents angry. Perhaps, one day the residents will demand for a Hawkers-Free City if the problem continue. Why not since the aspiration of people is changing now and they prefer to patronise well kept food premises? For hawkers, it is a matter of relevant if no changes are forthcoming. Hawkers might one day be discarded from the society. It is entirely their choice, and not the local authority, I presume.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Local Agenda 21 Seremban
I was invited to facilitate the drafting of Local Agenda 21 Action Plan of Seremban on Tuesday. The participants have divided to 3 groups, namely social development, environmental protection and infrastructure development. Each group, then identified the prioritised major issue for further deliberation.
The group on social development selected the youth as main focus. I personally think it is a good starting point as this category of age group can be easy entrance for stakeholders' participation. When it comes community issues, more than often the response from community members are poor as many might not share the same vision and interest. Youth and or children are pertinent focus group as all residents share the same interest of educating their children. Everyone likes to inculcate good value on the children.
The group on environmental protection has selected rehabilitation of Sungai Temiang as their case study. The river flow through the city centre becomes an eyesore to the people as the quality of water was deteriorating. It was mentioned that rubbish and waste water discharge are the main culprit. I reminded the group that in fact human is the mother of all problems. Our actions and greed are the cause of problems. We are the one to not taking care the river, we throw rubbish into the river and etc. In order to improve the water quality, we need to engage three multiple approaches, namely pollution reduction, rehabilitation and community participation. While engineering solutions is a must, without full and committed participation of various stakeholders especially the people, the solutions might not be sustained. And, we are talking about sustainable development. For getting people to be involved, civic science encompasses awareness raising, knowledge and skills acquisition, actions and changing of habits have to be applied.
For the group of infrastructure development, they were given 13 issues to select, and have difficulty to choose one. I told them to revisit the identified issues, and perhaps to combine some issues as many might be too small to have owns action plan. Importantly is to get input and cooperation from all stakeholders to share the ideas and actions for implementation. It is a plan for all and not the local authority alone. More than often, we have stakeholders pointing finger to others to deliver, and in the case of LA 21, the local authority to deliver rather than delivery by all according to everyone expertise and resources. For instance, community members to maintain the public space in front of their house rather than waiting for the service provider to do it. This is social responsibility at large that we tend to forget.
In total, I found the forum is refreshing and that my ideas was shared and accepted in good spirit. I hope similar spirit can be sustained for effective implementation. Cheers.
The group on social development selected the youth as main focus. I personally think it is a good starting point as this category of age group can be easy entrance for stakeholders' participation. When it comes community issues, more than often the response from community members are poor as many might not share the same vision and interest. Youth and or children are pertinent focus group as all residents share the same interest of educating their children. Everyone likes to inculcate good value on the children.
The group on environmental protection has selected rehabilitation of Sungai Temiang as their case study. The river flow through the city centre becomes an eyesore to the people as the quality of water was deteriorating. It was mentioned that rubbish and waste water discharge are the main culprit. I reminded the group that in fact human is the mother of all problems. Our actions and greed are the cause of problems. We are the one to not taking care the river, we throw rubbish into the river and etc. In order to improve the water quality, we need to engage three multiple approaches, namely pollution reduction, rehabilitation and community participation. While engineering solutions is a must, without full and committed participation of various stakeholders especially the people, the solutions might not be sustained. And, we are talking about sustainable development. For getting people to be involved, civic science encompasses awareness raising, knowledge and skills acquisition, actions and changing of habits have to be applied.
For the group of infrastructure development, they were given 13 issues to select, and have difficulty to choose one. I told them to revisit the identified issues, and perhaps to combine some issues as many might be too small to have owns action plan. Importantly is to get input and cooperation from all stakeholders to share the ideas and actions for implementation. It is a plan for all and not the local authority alone. More than often, we have stakeholders pointing finger to others to deliver, and in the case of LA 21, the local authority to deliver rather than delivery by all according to everyone expertise and resources. For instance, community members to maintain the public space in front of their house rather than waiting for the service provider to do it. This is social responsibility at large that we tend to forget.
In total, I found the forum is refreshing and that my ideas was shared and accepted in good spirit. I hope similar spirit can be sustained for effective implementation. Cheers.
Monday, June 22, 2009
E-Waste
It is a legal requirement for the contractors disposing E-Waste to apply license from the Department of Environment. The contractors are required to submit note specifying origin, route, destination, parties involved and volume of collection. While this is done to have a record on the route of E-Waste management so that this hazardous waste can be accounted for, the requirement has in a way affected the voluntary recycling efforts initiated by the not-for-profit community organisations.
In our effort to encourage 3R, many residents organisations set up community recycling centres to accept recyclable items from general public. These items are then resale to the recycling vendors. These include paper, aluminium, glass and plastic. For a wider collection of recyclable items and to not create a wrong perception on the concept of 3R, Local Agenda 21 Petaling Jaya kept introducing new items for collection to these centres. These include spectacles, computer and beverage cartons. Everything went well until we are informed by the computer recycling vendor to file up a form and to put our signature there as part of the legal requirement.
Many volunteers reluctant to do so due to the legal implication. They are not prepared to take the responsibility, if any as they are doing so for the sake of promoting environmental conservation. They have voiced out that if exemption is not given, they prepare to give up their effort on collecting the E-Waste. After all it is not a paid job.
The consequences on 3R implementation is far reaching. More E-Waste from the household if not collected will be channelled to the landfill. We have to provide sufficient opportunities such as available centres for public to recycle all waste and develop this habit as a norm of life. Imposing such preventive requirement definitely will not help in recruiting volunteers and volunteering organisations to participate in the 3R initiatives. Specific rules promoting voluntary recycling efforts have to be formulated. If this is not done, perhaps one day Government and its' appointed vendors have to do it on their own, I presume.
In our effort to encourage 3R, many residents organisations set up community recycling centres to accept recyclable items from general public. These items are then resale to the recycling vendors. These include paper, aluminium, glass and plastic. For a wider collection of recyclable items and to not create a wrong perception on the concept of 3R, Local Agenda 21 Petaling Jaya kept introducing new items for collection to these centres. These include spectacles, computer and beverage cartons. Everything went well until we are informed by the computer recycling vendor to file up a form and to put our signature there as part of the legal requirement.
Many volunteers reluctant to do so due to the legal implication. They are not prepared to take the responsibility, if any as they are doing so for the sake of promoting environmental conservation. They have voiced out that if exemption is not given, they prepare to give up their effort on collecting the E-Waste. After all it is not a paid job.
The consequences on 3R implementation is far reaching. More E-Waste from the household if not collected will be channelled to the landfill. We have to provide sufficient opportunities such as available centres for public to recycle all waste and develop this habit as a norm of life. Imposing such preventive requirement definitely will not help in recruiting volunteers and volunteering organisations to participate in the 3R initiatives. Specific rules promoting voluntary recycling efforts have to be formulated. If this is not done, perhaps one day Government and its' appointed vendors have to do it on their own, I presume.
Friday, June 19, 2009
Smart Rangers
SMART means Sorting and Managing All Resources Thoroughly is a program organised by Global Environment Centre (GEC) in collaboration with MBPJ and Education Department and funded by DANIDA-SWMC. The program aimed at educating 5 schools in PJ to be environmental steward. The schools should practice 3R thoroughly toward achieving zero-waste and combating climate change. These schools are Sri Kelana, Yuk Chuen and Vivenkanada Primary School and Kelana Jaya and Bandar Sri Damansara 1 Seconday School.
We have a working committee meeting on last Tuesday in which the schools representatives brought out some pertinent questions on time factor, target group, organising structure, appropriate programmes and activities, finance, expertise and support. A total of RM3,500 per school is allocated for them to carry out sustainable initiatives, tree planting or even awareness campaign.
This is excited especially seeing the success of Sri Kelana School implementing similar programme since year 2004. The sustainability element is emphasized so that initiative will not continue due to loss of interest, change of leadership and management as well as the students. In doing so, economic sustainability apart from due recognition from the education authorities is very important. It is with sufficient financial allocation that the initiatives can go on. However, the money must be self-generated and not spoon feed by others. For example, the Smart Rangers of Sri Kelana is earning much to contribute the construction of pagoda, rubbish bin and other facilities to the schools.
Another contributing factor is the leadership and dedication of teachers. One of the undeniable success factor of Sri Kelana is due to the commitment and dedication shown by Mr Ong. With full support from the headmistress and other teachers, he managed to steer the smart rangers for greater and total involvement in the field of environment conservation. We need champion like him. Thank you, Sir.
We have a working committee meeting on last Tuesday in which the schools representatives brought out some pertinent questions on time factor, target group, organising structure, appropriate programmes and activities, finance, expertise and support. A total of RM3,500 per school is allocated for them to carry out sustainable initiatives, tree planting or even awareness campaign.
This is excited especially seeing the success of Sri Kelana School implementing similar programme since year 2004. The sustainability element is emphasized so that initiative will not continue due to loss of interest, change of leadership and management as well as the students. In doing so, economic sustainability apart from due recognition from the education authorities is very important. It is with sufficient financial allocation that the initiatives can go on. However, the money must be self-generated and not spoon feed by others. For example, the Smart Rangers of Sri Kelana is earning much to contribute the construction of pagoda, rubbish bin and other facilities to the schools.
Another contributing factor is the leadership and dedication of teachers. One of the undeniable success factor of Sri Kelana is due to the commitment and dedication shown by Mr Ong. With full support from the headmistress and other teachers, he managed to steer the smart rangers for greater and total involvement in the field of environment conservation. We need champion like him. Thank you, Sir.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Environmental Education for Kindergarten
Whenever the need for environmental education was discussed, focus would be given to the students from primary and secondary schools, and some time the communities. Having said this, we have always complained about students with thorough training and practices for environmental conservation during schooling days forgot to be environmental friendly immediately after leaving the schools. What went wrong then? Some offered the reason of environmental conservation value has not being inculcated and becoming a norm and way of life. They further argued that students at the primary level is too burdened with the academic subjects that peripheral life long learning topics are scarified. This is understood with many schools fighting for glory on academic excellency and parents "kiasu" symptom.
Acknowledging this, Environmental Working Committee of Local Agenda 21 Petaling Jaya organised the inaugural environment education workshop specially for the operators and teachers of the kindergarten in Petaling Jaya last Thursday. The Workshop is to raise awareness, knowledge and skills on environment conservation and sustainable development. It is hope that acquiring the skills will motivate them to initiate sustainable initiatives and programmes together with the children aged 6 years and below within their school compound. The participants were taught on sustainable development and Local Agenda 21, natural resources, urban ecology, solid waste management, energy conservation as well as demonstration on natural craft making, Eco-enzyme making and tree plantings. At the afternoon session, the participants were divided to group brainstorming an action plan on sustainable kindergarten.
It is such a wonderful experience for having the kindergarten stakeholders for the first time in our effort pursuing sustainability. It is also the first time that participants are asking more of these kind of capacity building programmes. It is also heartening to see the involvement of NGOs in this workshop. We have Ecoknights, GEC, CETDEM, DANIDA-SWMC, RT Flat PKNS PJS2, May Collection, Beautiful Gate and Justlife partnering with LA 21 MBPJ to conduct the one-day event.
The participants are promised of RM300 as an incentive for them to implement any sustainable initiatives within a month after the workshop. After the third month, evaluation will be carried out to select the kindergartens with best practices to share. 3 kindergartens with best practices will be conferred with Sustainable Kindergarten Award. This must be the first time ever such Award is presented, I presume.
With the inclusion of kindergarten, LA 21 PJ has extended the environment education training from pre-school children to the community. This is crucial to educate since young, practice it daily as way of life and hence will not feel uneasy of practicing some "dirty" acts such as collecting and sorting rubbish for 3R etc.
Acknowledging this, Environmental Working Committee of Local Agenda 21 Petaling Jaya organised the inaugural environment education workshop specially for the operators and teachers of the kindergarten in Petaling Jaya last Thursday. The Workshop is to raise awareness, knowledge and skills on environment conservation and sustainable development. It is hope that acquiring the skills will motivate them to initiate sustainable initiatives and programmes together with the children aged 6 years and below within their school compound. The participants were taught on sustainable development and Local Agenda 21, natural resources, urban ecology, solid waste management, energy conservation as well as demonstration on natural craft making, Eco-enzyme making and tree plantings. At the afternoon session, the participants were divided to group brainstorming an action plan on sustainable kindergarten.
It is such a wonderful experience for having the kindergarten stakeholders for the first time in our effort pursuing sustainability. It is also the first time that participants are asking more of these kind of capacity building programmes. It is also heartening to see the involvement of NGOs in this workshop. We have Ecoknights, GEC, CETDEM, DANIDA-SWMC, RT Flat PKNS PJS2, May Collection, Beautiful Gate and Justlife partnering with LA 21 MBPJ to conduct the one-day event.
The participants are promised of RM300 as an incentive for them to implement any sustainable initiatives within a month after the workshop. After the third month, evaluation will be carried out to select the kindergartens with best practices to share. 3 kindergartens with best practices will be conferred with Sustainable Kindergarten Award. This must be the first time ever such Award is presented, I presume.
With the inclusion of kindergarten, LA 21 PJ has extended the environment education training from pre-school children to the community. This is crucial to educate since young, practice it daily as way of life and hence will not feel uneasy of practicing some "dirty" acts such as collecting and sorting rubbish for 3R etc.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Community Sustainable Initiative - SS5
The SS5 Neighbourhood Watch is synonymous with its Chairman, Mr Sanggat Singh. One can easily confuse with the administrative boundary of SS5 and SS5D Neighbourhood Watch, but never able to ignore the presence of Mr Sanggat. It is so dominant that all activities carried out are bearing with his believe and value.
As an advocate for peace and inter-faith, many of the community programmes were planned with the principles of peace and social integration in mind. For example, prayer session by different religious representatives is conducted at the beginning of an event, signaling high tolerance and mutual respect.
The participation of multi-stakeholders, internally and from external is very encouraging. Their involvement have not only widened the social networking of the local residents, but also their awareness and knowledge on sustainability issues. I believe, this form of collaboration between NGOs and CBOs is a must for Local Agenda 21 to move forward.
As an advocate for peace and inter-faith, many of the community programmes were planned with the principles of peace and social integration in mind. For example, prayer session by different religious representatives is conducted at the beginning of an event, signaling high tolerance and mutual respect.
The participation of multi-stakeholders, internally and from external is very encouraging. Their involvement have not only widened the social networking of the local residents, but also their awareness and knowledge on sustainability issues. I believe, this form of collaboration between NGOs and CBOs is a must for Local Agenda 21 to move forward.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Community Sustainable Initiative - SS5D
The judges went into a terrace house for their visit. It is not the chairman's house or shelter for any of the committee members. It is the Centre for SS5D Neighbourhood Watch. The once abandoned dwelling house is used for serving the community albeit as a temporary measure. The Committee approached the next of kin of the house owner who passed away for turning the house into community centre as they were not able to maintain it. To me, this bold move can become a learning curve for those community without a proper centre, always complain but yet do nothing. Some have even using the absence of a proper centre as an excuse for non-commitment.
Another milestone is having the correspondence number of service agencies and government departments printed and distributed to every households. I believe many residents will appreciate this handy gesture the most.
Another milestone is having the correspondence number of service agencies and government departments printed and distributed to every households. I believe many residents will appreciate this handy gesture the most.
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Bloggers Carnival
PJ Challenge for this year is moving into cyber world instead of the physical challenge for the past few years. Starting from year 2004, the annual event has created a lot of excitements and expectation from the public. These include the climbing of 4 hills in PJ, Towerthon, Charity Climb of Bukit Gasing and River Search.
In conjunction with the 3rd Anniversary celebration of PJ City, the Blogger Carnival features number of activities will be held on 20th June 2009 at the Jaya 33 Complex. Clinic on teaching blogging techniques will be conducted for the beginners and season blogger. Apart from that, lucky draw, art contest, treasure hunt, photos snap and "cool" activities are being organised.
This must be a celebration with many innovations and first. Since, new media is becoming important communication tool for social networking, information searching and political alliance, learning to master it or at least to understand is a necessity now. Of course, if your blog is attracting high traffic, it is a wealth creation as well.
I expect many will grab the opportunities to attend the event. Perhaps MBPJ as the frontier city council on K-Management should facilitate similar events in the future.
In conjunction with the 3rd Anniversary celebration of PJ City, the Blogger Carnival features number of activities will be held on 20th June 2009 at the Jaya 33 Complex. Clinic on teaching blogging techniques will be conducted for the beginners and season blogger. Apart from that, lucky draw, art contest, treasure hunt, photos snap and "cool" activities are being organised.
This must be a celebration with many innovations and first. Since, new media is becoming important communication tool for social networking, information searching and political alliance, learning to master it or at least to understand is a necessity now. Of course, if your blog is attracting high traffic, it is a wealth creation as well.
I expect many will grab the opportunities to attend the event. Perhaps MBPJ as the frontier city council on K-Management should facilitate similar events in the future.
Friday, June 12, 2009
Community Sustainable Initiative - Taman Bukit Mayang Emas
A community that has done so much for sustainability, yet hear very little about sustainable development is an under statement in describing the Taman Bukit Mayang Emas Residents Association. The leadership is very strong and the bonding as well. When you listen to the founding chairman explaining how he has started the establishment, you will be very touched and excited. It all started in 2004 when Mr Yeong decided to call his neighbours to do something for their central park. The park is big in size, but under utilized without good facilities. Since then, a basketball court, cycling track, children play area and BBQ pit were built. I believe this must be the first public BBQ pit in Petaling Jaya.
Realising the fear about safety and security, they spoke to Police Department and started their security scheme. The scheme together with cooperation from the police has managed to bring crime rate to the lowest.
Having said this, the least unexpected initiative was converting a plot of abandoned no man land in the neighbourhood to an orchard for passion fruit. Apart from the plants, all structure in the orchard are built from recycled items. It is very well thought of and managed.
Realising the fear about safety and security, they spoke to Police Department and started their security scheme. The scheme together with cooperation from the police has managed to bring crime rate to the lowest.
Having said this, the least unexpected initiative was converting a plot of abandoned no man land in the neighbourhood to an orchard for passion fruit. Apart from the plants, all structure in the orchard are built from recycled items. It is very well thought of and managed.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Community Sustainable Initiative - Taman Mayang Jaya SS26
This winner for merit award and 2nd placing in Year 2007 and 2006 has not changed much but continuing with their initiatives on recycling and youth programmes. They organised the annual 3 days 2 nights youth camp for educating the young people on good neighbourliness and value. This must be one of the very few residents association put their head together for tackling the youth challenge.
They tried on the organic planting, albeit with slower pace. The recruited new members albeit with fewer to come forward. Nevertheless, trying is their motto. Similar effort applies to their security scheme now. With an initial BIG NO, more people are subscribing to the idea of having their neighbourhood guarded now. This is done through persistent.
Delegated leadership is being practiced here with the chairman given opportunity to others to lead, to plan and to implement programmes. This attitude is well reflected during the discussion and Q and A session with judges. The committee members must be given ample chance and time to contribute and to learn how to lead. Leadership succession must have started from the day one the chairman was elected, i presume.
They tried on the organic planting, albeit with slower pace. The recruited new members albeit with fewer to come forward. Nevertheless, trying is their motto. Similar effort applies to their security scheme now. With an initial BIG NO, more people are subscribing to the idea of having their neighbourhood guarded now. This is done through persistent.
Delegated leadership is being practiced here with the chairman given opportunity to others to lead, to plan and to implement programmes. This attitude is well reflected during the discussion and Q and A session with judges. The committee members must be given ample chance and time to contribute and to learn how to lead. Leadership succession must have started from the day one the chairman was elected, i presume.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Child Facilitators
Acquisition of facilitation skill is a learning process. A facilitator can become better after few rounds of real life experiences. So for a person like me who is used to facilitate the group discussions during a workshop, I normally take it for granted whenever accepting an invitation for facilitation. I am of the opinion that standard operating procedures for facilitation is applicable for all occassions, at least this is what I thought prior to last Sunday's Facilitators Briefing for the Children Forum on Child Friendly City of Petaling Jaya. The briefing is a prelude to align the appointed young facilitators on approaches and methods to be used for the Forum to be held on 27th June 2009 at the PJ Community Library. A total of 250 children 8-18 years old is expected to attend the one-day Forum.
Throughout the briefing session, I was kept on reminded by the young facilitators on dos and don'ts for dealing with the children. First of all, to smile wholeheartedly meeting with the children when they come to registration. Smiling means to be friendly to them and to gain their acceptance as Friend. After that, a lot of games and ice-breakers need to be carried out at the initial stage so that the participants are comfortable with the organisers and facilitators. It is a must to win over their heart and confident first before getting them to express their views on children issues and aspirations. However, different games are useful for different age groups. Hence, the venue is expected to have very loud noise and run over throughout the event. We have also difficulty to slot in the official opening function at the starting so as not to disrupt the momentum of proceeding. What to do then...
While gaining their support is not easy, sustaining their focus and concentration is equally difficult. As children tend to divert their attention to other things very quickly, short and precise presentation with colourful illustration and gestures are needed, of course the venue setting with "ompp and cool" element is also helpful. Using children's language is also important. No point of talking with technical jargon such as children's rights under the Children Right Convention without translating it into simple and understandable terms.
Another important thing is to crystallise their ideas and thoughts into some writable and readable terms for adult to digest. The children might not have given their ideas in a particular time slot but along their playing time, thereby it is important for the facilitators to pen down anything along the whole process, and to structure it into sentence and statement during the debriefing session. It is a big task, i believe.
I have learned a lot to lower down myself to the level of children so as to understand them better. In doing so, I have inner feeling that I am getting younger now.
Throughout the briefing session, I was kept on reminded by the young facilitators on dos and don'ts for dealing with the children. First of all, to smile wholeheartedly meeting with the children when they come to registration. Smiling means to be friendly to them and to gain their acceptance as Friend. After that, a lot of games and ice-breakers need to be carried out at the initial stage so that the participants are comfortable with the organisers and facilitators. It is a must to win over their heart and confident first before getting them to express their views on children issues and aspirations. However, different games are useful for different age groups. Hence, the venue is expected to have very loud noise and run over throughout the event. We have also difficulty to slot in the official opening function at the starting so as not to disrupt the momentum of proceeding. What to do then...
While gaining their support is not easy, sustaining their focus and concentration is equally difficult. As children tend to divert their attention to other things very quickly, short and precise presentation with colourful illustration and gestures are needed, of course the venue setting with "ompp and cool" element is also helpful. Using children's language is also important. No point of talking with technical jargon such as children's rights under the Children Right Convention without translating it into simple and understandable terms.
Another important thing is to crystallise their ideas and thoughts into some writable and readable terms for adult to digest. The children might not have given their ideas in a particular time slot but along their playing time, thereby it is important for the facilitators to pen down anything along the whole process, and to structure it into sentence and statement during the debriefing session. It is a big task, i believe.
I have learned a lot to lower down myself to the level of children so as to understand them better. In doing so, I have inner feeling that I am getting younger now.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Community Sustainable Initiative - Damansara Utama SS22
This first timer took it seriously when it came to the judges visit on 31th May 2009. The briefing was done in Damansara Specialist Centre and it caused suspicious amongst the judges upon arrival. They were asking whether we have gone to the right place or not. After briefing, i believe all agreed that the Centre is the right place. SS22 Neighbourhood Watch has partnered the hospital in many community programmes in which smart corporate partnership is practiced here.
Another smart partnership worth mentioning is the community policing scheme with the Police Department. This pilot project brought the blue man closer to the community. Apart from stationing a police officer there, various activities such as art of self defending, horse riding, exhibition on security and etc were held.
Women role in community building and leadership is very visible with this community. Basically the top 4 posts are held by the women. More importantly, others adhere to command and demand for carrying out activities.
Another milestone is the understanding of sustainable development and the need for sharing and pooling of resources. They encourage other organisations to conduct 3R programme by promoting it amongst the residents. I think it is a good move considering that every organisation has their own role to play. It is pointless to compete with each others on resources distribution. I noticed that in some places with two or three organisations having their recycling programme, the achievement is normally very poor. Perhaps we must learn how to share and work together for greater results.
Another smart partnership worth mentioning is the community policing scheme with the Police Department. This pilot project brought the blue man closer to the community. Apart from stationing a police officer there, various activities such as art of self defending, horse riding, exhibition on security and etc were held.
Women role in community building and leadership is very visible with this community. Basically the top 4 posts are held by the women. More importantly, others adhere to command and demand for carrying out activities.
Another milestone is the understanding of sustainable development and the need for sharing and pooling of resources. They encourage other organisations to conduct 3R programme by promoting it amongst the residents. I think it is a good move considering that every organisation has their own role to play. It is pointless to compete with each others on resources distribution. I noticed that in some places with two or three organisations having their recycling programme, the achievement is normally very poor. Perhaps we must learn how to share and work together for greater results.
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Community Sustainable Initiative - SS2B
Last year's winner for the PJ Best Neighbourhood Award, SS2B Neighbourhood Watch showed many innovations this year. Apart from continuing working closely with the disabled group and adopting the public garden, the neighbourhood launched a security scheme in complimenting with the voluntary patrolling service they have introduced last year. The proposed scheme will place the whole neighbourhood under high security alert. While some might have peaceful mind now knowing that the tendency of getting rob is lesser, i presume some might prefer not to have their routine daily life, big or small under close scrutiny.
Calender featuring important telephone numbers and contacts was printed and distributed to every household. I believe this is a good marketing exercise. Apart from that, a dedicated blog with update information on community activities was established. I think, this is the latest trend for community organisations to communicate with residents, and it is unavoidable. For an effective communication amongst community members with diverse socio-cultural background, all means of communication have to be applied. These can be door-to-door visiting, notice board at the public places, sms, e-mailing, newsletters, flyers and so on. Blogging and online chatting must be the order for future.
Calender featuring important telephone numbers and contacts was printed and distributed to every household. I believe this is a good marketing exercise. Apart from that, a dedicated blog with update information on community activities was established. I think, this is the latest trend for community organisations to communicate with residents, and it is unavoidable. For an effective communication amongst community members with diverse socio-cultural background, all means of communication have to be applied. These can be door-to-door visiting, notice board at the public places, sms, e-mailing, newsletters, flyers and so on. Blogging and online chatting must be the order for future.
Friday, June 5, 2009
World Environment Day 2009
The World is celebrating the Environment Day on the 5th of June every year. Various activities for raising public awareness and reminding people on the environmental conservation challenges are held at different parts of the World. Few activities, however are held to celebrate the success stories of protecting our environment. In other words, much more need to be done for having a healthy and sustainable Earth.
Today marks the Day for everyone to refresh what we have done for the environment the last 12 months and also to map out strategies and actions on what to do for the next twelve months and longer. Do you make a wish list today?
I hope more individual actions by everyone for reducing generation of waste, reducing carbon footprint, increasing efficiency on utilising the resources and promoting healthy and sustainable lifestyle and neighbourliness. Collectively, individual actions can bring tremendous changes to the World.
I wish businesses, big or small can do more for the environment. Having Social Responsibility practices on environmental stewardship and social responsiveness for every step in the businesses standard operating procedure is the way forward. Businesses without GREEN Heart will not be able to sustain onto next generation. Public demand higher code of ethic from businesses when it comes to environmental protection.
I pray that government can improve the quality of environment by applying multiple instruments, namely voluntary, economy and legal. Policies to encourage zero-waste, zero-carbon, environmental stewardship, greenery, energy efficiency as well as discouraging wasteful habit, excessive consumption and inefficiency should be put in place, and execute thoroughly.
I am talking about tri-partie partnership between the government, community and businesses, the pillar of sustainable development. Without or inequality amongst one will not make our wish for this year World Environment Day to realise.
Today marks the Day for everyone to refresh what we have done for the environment the last 12 months and also to map out strategies and actions on what to do for the next twelve months and longer. Do you make a wish list today?
I hope more individual actions by everyone for reducing generation of waste, reducing carbon footprint, increasing efficiency on utilising the resources and promoting healthy and sustainable lifestyle and neighbourliness. Collectively, individual actions can bring tremendous changes to the World.
I wish businesses, big or small can do more for the environment. Having Social Responsibility practices on environmental stewardship and social responsiveness for every step in the businesses standard operating procedure is the way forward. Businesses without GREEN Heart will not be able to sustain onto next generation. Public demand higher code of ethic from businesses when it comes to environmental protection.
I pray that government can improve the quality of environment by applying multiple instruments, namely voluntary, economy and legal. Policies to encourage zero-waste, zero-carbon, environmental stewardship, greenery, energy efficiency as well as discouraging wasteful habit, excessive consumption and inefficiency should be put in place, and execute thoroughly.
I am talking about tri-partie partnership between the government, community and businesses, the pillar of sustainable development. Without or inequality amongst one will not make our wish for this year World Environment Day to realise.
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Community Sustainable Initiative - SS23
SS23 or commonly known as Taman SEA is not a planned gated and guarded neighbourhood, yet the presence of barricade at all main exit points and security guards at the various check points days and nights make it a protected community. The security scheme is so successful that crime rate has reduced and non-committed residents have started participating in this well-organised scheme.
The Neighbourhood Watch has also designed a blog for communicating with the residents, apart from appointing zone and street representatives to disseminate and receive information. The approach of engaging residents via every road representatives is very effective as residents of next door would normally more friendly incline to any information or requests for help. It is very difficult to discuss mutual issues or even to start a conversation if both parties are not very familiar with each others. For example, collecting the service fee for security is easier through the road representatives rather than someone they might only meet once a while.
The Neighbourhood Watch has also designed a blog for communicating with the residents, apart from appointing zone and street representatives to disseminate and receive information. The approach of engaging residents via every road representatives is very effective as residents of next door would normally more friendly incline to any information or requests for help. It is very difficult to discuss mutual issues or even to start a conversation if both parties are not very familiar with each others. For example, collecting the service fee for security is easier through the road representatives rather than someone they might only meet once a while.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Community Developer
When it comes to community development, every body has a stake although some might not have known it. The professional planners and architects who design the layout and building will have the opportunities to allocate space for community creation; The developers who determine the pricing structure and type of houses will influence the potential buyers and hence the social fabric of inhabitants there; The local authorities who provide the urban services and regulate the physical development will eventually determine the approaches of a community, either engaging or confronting; Having said this, the residents and its' organisation is the most important player for community development. They are the community developers. They are the one to decide the content of a development at the neighbourhood level. An active community is the one with many activities involving community at large. A run down community must be the one with many of the residents having apathy and "tidak apa" attitude. While many stakeholders can contribute towards the community developing, residents, the long term inhabitants are the master developers.
They can develop a community with their resources based on shared visions and missions. Their visions and missions will determine what kind of community they are envisioned. For example, a sustainable community or a wasteful community or a caring community or a peaceful community and etc, all within their choice. Towards this, they have to create mutual understanding and to inculcate shared value and sense of belongings to their neighbourhood. The process of developing a community is not an easy task. It required passion and persistent from everyone, and of course the guidance of a leader. Leadership is critical to steer the community in the right way for the right direction.
While developer can only build houses and family do create a home, the residents are the one to develop a community, collectively.
They can develop a community with their resources based on shared visions and missions. Their visions and missions will determine what kind of community they are envisioned. For example, a sustainable community or a wasteful community or a caring community or a peaceful community and etc, all within their choice. Towards this, they have to create mutual understanding and to inculcate shared value and sense of belongings to their neighbourhood. The process of developing a community is not an easy task. It required passion and persistent from everyone, and of course the guidance of a leader. Leadership is critical to steer the community in the right way for the right direction.
While developer can only build houses and family do create a home, the residents are the one to develop a community, collectively.
Monday, June 1, 2009
Community Sustainable Initiative - SS2 South
This is the first time that SS2 South Residents Association took part in the PJ Best Neighbourhood Award Contest. After establishing for more than 5 years, the association remains as a moderate grouping of residents. Many of its' founding members continue serving as very few newcomers are offering their service. Perhaps it shows that the residents of SS2 South are happy with their living environment or simply because of apathy attitude.
Despite that, with very limited resources the committee has tried their very best to serve. The committee members become the intermediate between MBPJ and residents by reporting and monitoring any infrastructure and public facilities defaults.
In the absence of a permanent meeting place, this multi ethnic committee hosts their monthly meeting in the meeting room of a community church. While many prefer to have their discussions elsewhere, the gathering at a religious institution shows high tolerance and mutual respect towards inter faith, i presume. I believe the move has definitely assisting in inculcating the spirit of 1Malaysia.
Despite that, with very limited resources the committee has tried their very best to serve. The committee members become the intermediate between MBPJ and residents by reporting and monitoring any infrastructure and public facilities defaults.
In the absence of a permanent meeting place, this multi ethnic committee hosts their monthly meeting in the meeting room of a community church. While many prefer to have their discussions elsewhere, the gathering at a religious institution shows high tolerance and mutual respect towards inter faith, i presume. I believe the move has definitely assisting in inculcating the spirit of 1Malaysia.
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