Saturday August 29, 2009

Go green for Malaysia

By TAN KARR WEI

THIS National Day, Malaysians can show their love for the country by doing their bit to protect the environment.

“Many people say that they love Malaysia but what concrete steps do they take to show their love?” said T.P. Lim, one of the founders of a group who call themselves The Recyclists.

The Recyclists comprises volunteers who focus on raising awareness of environmental issues and raising money to help their cause.

After a successful No Plastic Bag Concert last year which raised RM30,000 for the Malaysian Nature Society (MNS) and the Independent Pet Rescuers, the group is back with a No Plastic Bag Bazaar this year.

The Recyclists: (From left) Lee, Ong, Laura Shellard and TP are part of the team organising the No Plastic Bag Bazaar.

“We’re doing it on Aug 31 and we’re hoping that people of all races will come together to contribute towards making Malaysia a better place,” said Lim, popularly known as TP.

Followers of the local entertainment scene would recognise TP as an emcee on many Chinese programmes who, together with fellow personalities like Peter Ong and Janet Lee, started a project called the Project Daily Million (www.projectdailymillion.com).

“We are aiming to get one million Malaysians to make a pledge to use at least one fewer plastic bag a day. Just think: if each person reduces their use by one plastic bag a day, how great a difference that would make!” said Ong.

“And, it’s not difficult. For example, you could say ‘no’ to a plastic bag when you buy your one packet of nasi lemak in the morning. It might be a small contribution but if more people started doing it, the numbers would count,” chipped in TP.

They now have more than 700 pledges and hope that more are in store.

Proceeds from the bazaar this year will go to the MNS and the Furry Friends Farm.

“The Furry Friends Farm played a big role in saving the Pulau Ketam dogs that were dumped on Pulau Selat Kering and it practises a no-kill policy,” Ong said.

Lee, who is also part of the event organising committee, said there would be more than 50 stalls selling eco-friendly products at the bazaar.

New edge products: This Wonderful Life alternative therapist Tania Leong will be showcasing her products like incense, candles, salt scrubs and natural soaps at the No Plastic Bags Bazaar.

Several celebrities, like Amber Chia, Deborah Henry and Xandria Ooi, will be contributing personal items from their wardrobe to be auctioned.

There will also be performances by people like Chelsia Ng, Sharizan and Yang Wei Han.

“The Honda Civic hybrid car will be on display and people will be able to test drive the car. Guests can also buy raffle tickets to be in the running for timepieces, massage vouchers, theatre tickets, reusable bags and vacation vouchers,” Lee said.

The bazaar will take place from noon to 6pm on Aug 31 at the Noble Banquet, No. 235, Jalan Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur.

Naturally, no plastic bags will be given out during the event and guests are encouraged to bring their own reusable bags.

For more information on the event, visit www.therecyclists.blogspot.com, email recyclists.malaysia@gmail.com or call 012-378 3730.