On February 15th, 2025, Pusat Riadah Laut Tanjung Kepah in Perak hosted the Hari Bersama Komuniti & Penanaman Bakau event, a key initiative under the Tanjung Kepah Mangrove Action Project (TKMAP). The purpose of this community-centered event organized by Wetlands International was to spread awareness about the importance of mangrove conservation, coastal protection, and the local community’s vital role in safeguarding these crucial ecosystems.

The event saw the active participation of 85 individuals, including local community, project partners, and university students, all of whom came together to make a positive environmental impact. The day began with speeches from prominent figures, including a representative from the Perak State Forestry Department and the office of the Perak Menteri Besar. They emphasized the significance of protecting mangroves and the collective responsibility we all share in preserving the environment for future generations.

The highlight of the event was the mangrove replanting activity. With enthusiasm and determination, the participants successfully planted 350 mangrove seedlings at Hutan Simpan Lekir, a vital area that plays a key role in maintaining coastal ecosystems and protecting the shoreline from erosion. This hands-on activity provided a tangible way for participants to contribute directly to the restoration of the mangrove habitat.

Following the planting activity, the participants were engaged in a series of knowledge transfer sessions. Experts led discussions on climate change, the importance of coastal protection, and the critical roles that local communities play in environmental conservation. These sessions were designed not only to raise awareness but also to empower the participants with the knowledge to make a difference in their own communities.

To wrap up the event, a knowledge assessment session was conducted to gauge the participants’ understanding of the topics discussed throughout the day. This session was followed by the distribution of Bakul RAHMAH, a special care package for each participant, as a token of appreciation for their involvement and commitment to the cause.

The Hari Bersama Komuniti & Penanaman Bakau event successfully achieved its goal of raising awareness and empowering local communities to take an active role in mangrove conservation. With a tagline “Menanam Harapan, Menuai Rezeki” (Planting Hope, Reaping Prosperity), this event highlighted the long-term benefits of mangrove restoration, not only for the environment but also for the local livelihoods that depend on it.