Sustainability is a term we have heard countless times, often mentioned alongside various environmental issues. It means preserving our resources while meeting the social and economic needs of all living beings. It is widely recognized that we must do more to protect the green wonders and vibrant ecosystems we cherish today. Ideally, everyone would express their desire to create a better place for Mother Earth and all its inhabitants. However, how much do we truly understand the practices needed to ensure the Earth's longevity?

A year ago, the SMPEM project organized an event celebrating the International Day of Forests at Hutan Simpan Kuala Langat Utara, Malaysia. The program aimed to plant 200 Bintangor trees in the forest's peatland areas, promoting conservation efforts and raising awareness about their importance. Students from the Bachelor of Parks and Recreation Science, Faculty of Forestry and Environment, Universiti Putra Malaysia, participated in the event, contributing to its success. The 200 trees planted that day represent a small yet significant step toward achieving the goal of planting 100 million trees in Malaysia from 2021 to 2025. In Selangor alone, the goal is to plant 26 million trees, a target that can be reached with the help of dedicated volunteers. The forest in Kuala Langat Utara is situated on peat soil, which is acidic and moist, providing ideal conditions for various species, including the Bintangor tree (Calophyllum sp.), a key indicator species for peatlands. Within two hours, all the saplings were successfully planted, ready to grow and help repopulate the forest.

On the way to the site, we passed through vast open lands where various developments were underway. This expansion has necessitated the strict protection of certain forest areas, preserving them to promote the growth of new trees. As part of the trip, the students visited a watchtower, which offers an excellent vantage point to observe the stark contrast between the forest's lush greenery and the barren lands used for development. It also is a crucial lookout for potential dangers such as forest fires or intruders. Hutan Simpan Kuala Langat Utara is home to more than flora and fauna. The Orang Asli Temuan community resides here, relying on the forest's resources and maintaining their traditional way of life. However, the forest reserve faces numerous challenges, particularly illegal agricultural activities. Using agricultural equipment and chemicals can disrupt the soil composition and the ecosystem.

One of the significant threats to Hutan Kuala Langat Utara is forest fires, which can be sparked by unattended cigarette butts, campfires, and recreational activities, especially in the dry, vegetation-free peatland areas. During our visit to the watchtower, we saw the aftermath of previous fires—large clearings with just grass and a few scattered trees. Forest rangers plan to plant trees in these areas as part of a volunteer program to aid the forest's recovery. SMPEM aims to organize more programs in different locations, including Broga, and intensify restoration efforts in areas like the Raja Musa Forest, where peatlands need further rehabilitation.

Addressing and preventing these issues while rejuvenating the forest is a complex challenge. It is essential to balance environmental conservation with the needs of the communities living within these forests, ensuring resources are available without causing damage. This balance forms the foundation of sustainability. Besides reforestation, several other efforts are underway to conserve peatlands. Infrastructure like tube wells and high-density polyethene (HDPE) pipes help maintain moisture in dry peatland areas, preventing drought-related issues. Other conservation measures include canal blocks, watchtowers, firebreaks to stop the spread of peatland fires, extended boardwalks, a fire danger rating system (FDRS), and informational signboards. Ongoing supervision and enforcement and outreach and awareness programs are crucial to these efforts. By continuing to engage volunteers and raise awareness, we can make significant strides in conserving and restoring these vital ecosystems.

Conservation efforts are neither a solo endeavor nor a quick fix. As the saying goes, Rome was not built in a day, and these organizations needed more hands to keep the momentum going. With each reforestation program, the goal of planting 100 million trees comes closer to reality. The objectives are to protect and conserve forest areas, raise awareness, celebrate conservation as a national agenda, ensure that at least 50% of the country's land remains forested, and encourage people from all walks of life to contribute to environmental efforts. The campaign is open to everyone, whether individually or in groups.

Reforestation initiatives are traditionally seen as green volunteer activities, and rightly so. However, they can also be enjoyable recreational activities that provide entertainment and satisfaction while benefiting the Earth. Engaging closely with the plants gives us a deeper appreciation for their importance. In addition, while some recreational activities can negatively impact the ecosystem, they can foster a greater appreciation for the environment with the right intentions and careful handling. Our participation in this program was both enjoyable and rewarding. We developed excellent teamwork to achieve our goals within the allocated time and felt a strong sense of accomplishment upon reaching our target. Reflecting on our efforts, we take pride in being part of this conservation initiative and joining the Peatland Awareness Program.

We returned tired but satisfied with our work. The rangers encouraged us to plant the saplings with love, knowing they would grow into thriving, vibrant trees. We look forward to participating in more reforestation programs in the future, and these 200 trees will contribute to the ongoing progress of the 100 million trees campaign. This program is just the beginning of many more this year. As of March 2023, the movement has successfully planted 58 million trees. Join us in this campaign to help our forests thrive! Visit www.100jutapokok.gov.my for more information. Every individual's involvement is deeply appreciated by both the forestry department and Mother Earth. Teamwork truly makes the dream work. As inhabitants of this planet, it is our responsibility to protect our forests and positively impact our environment. Let's work together to safeguard our forests and ensure a healthier planet for future generations.