The Development of a River Health Index (RHI) for River Basins in Malaysia Webinar, organized by Jabatan Pengairan dan Saliran (JPS), UNESCO, Humid Tropics Centre Kuala Lumpur (HTC KL) and Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) brought together a diverse audience. This virtual event was held on December 12, 2024, from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. via the Zoom application with a maximum login of 100 participants. It served as a significant platform for fostering dialogue and raising awareness about the importance of preserving our waterways and taking care our environment, focusing mainly on rivers.
The webinar panel comprised three experts: Prof. Dato’ Dr. Nor Azazi Zakaria, Honorary Professor of River Engineering and Urban Drainage Research Centre, USM (REDAC); Dr. Nurul Hana Mokhtar Kamal, USM Experts in Environmental Engineering and Prof. Emeritus Dato’ Dr. Chan Ngai Weng, President of Water Watch Penang (WWP). The moderator was Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohd Remy Rozainy Mohd Arif Zainol, Director of REDAC. Opening speech from Dato’ IR Ratna Rajah Sivapiragsam, Director of Regional Humid Tropics Hydrology and Water Resources Centre for South-East Asia and the Pacific.
During the discussion, the experts offered comprehensive insights into assessing water quality using practical techniques. They showcased technologies capable of monitoring and maintaining clean water, highlighting their significance in achieving sustainable water management. Furthermore, they provided practical advice for river conservation, including minimizing pollution, effective waste management, and safeguarding natural vegetation along riverbanks. These strategies are designed to enhance water quality and promote the sustainability of river ecosystems.
Prof. Emeritus Dato’ Dr. Chan Ngai Weng’s presentation provided a comprehensive overview of ‘The Role of the Community in Developing River Health Index Through Collaborative River Management’ He initially discusses the vital functions of rivers and highlights the issue of pollution resulting from irresponsible human actions. Furthermore, his presentation delves into the associated costs and challenges of cleaning polluted rivers. He discussed on factors contributing to river pollution and offered several solutions through cooperation from communities and public education.
Following the presentation, a Q&A session allowed participants to ask questions in the chat box, with some inquiries receiving immediate live responses and others addressed in the chat. In a concluding remark, Prof. Emeritus Dato’ Dr. Chan Ngai Weng emphasized the critical role of families in fostering children’s connection to nature, highlighting that many children today possess high IQs but lower emotional intelligence (EQ). He encouraged parents and educators to expose children to outdoor environments to build empathy, awareness, and a deeper appreciation for nature. He also underscored the importance of understanding water sources and their conservation, advocating for widespread education to ensure communities recognize their role in preserving these vital resources.
Water Watch Penang extends heartfelt gratitude to Jabatan Pengairan dan Saliran (JPS), UNESCO, Humid Tropics Centre Kuala Lumpur (HTC KL), and Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) for the kind invitation to participate in the webinar and for facilitating such a fruitful and engaging session.