On June 2, 2024, Water Watch Penang (WWP) collaborated with PBA Dharma Sunday School to conduct a river education program at the Botanical Garden. The primary goal of this program was to raise awareness about Penang’s water resources and educate students on river monitoring and conservation. The program brought together 25 students, led by Ms. Melissa Moey, and four corresponding teachers. Previously in the year 2023, these group of students have participated in an indoor water education at Penang Buddhist Association (PBA).
These participants actively engaged in learning about the importance of water conservation and the challenges faced by Penang’s water ecosystems.
Dr. Hong Chern Wern, the Executive Manager of WWP, kicked off the program with an insightful overview of the current state of Penang’s water resources. Following this introduction, the hands-on session commenced, led by Mr. Hanson Yeoh, the Lead Facilitator. Trained facilitators and Interns including Ms. Teh Yu Jie, Mr. Muhammad Aiman, Mr. Yee Jean Chai, Ms. Amanda Chong, Ms. Nur Fatin, and Ms. Nur Atiqah, actively guided the students through various water quality assessments.
During the physical assessment, students closely observed the river environment. They noted the types of land use surrounding the river, identified any water odors, the presence of pipes, drains, and vegetation along the riverbanks. Additionally, the color, clarity, and turbidity of the water were also assessed. To quantify the river’s flow, students measured surface velocity and calculated river discharge.
The chemical assessment involved both theoretical and practical components. Students measured several key chemical parameters such as dissolved oxygen, pH level that determines the acidity or alkalinity, phosphate, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels which help identify potential pollutants and assess overall water quality.
In the biological monitoring session, facilitators engaged students in a catch-and-release activity. The focus was on identifying macro-invertebrates in the river. These bioindicator species—such as pagoda snails, leeches, caddisfly nymphs, and prawns—provide valuable insights into the ecological health of the river ecosystem. Detecting signs of pollution or disturbance through biological indicators is crucial for effective conservation efforts.
The river education program offered valuable insights into the condition of local rivers and water bodies. By combining physical, chemical, and biological assessments, Water Watch Penang aims to enhance its monitoring and conservation efforts. The sustainable management of water resources in Penang remains a priority, and programs like this contribute significantly to achieving that goal.
For more information on River and Water Education programme, please contact Dr. Hong Chern Wern at hong.wwp@gmail.com.
@PBAPP News