THE Penang government is aiming to have 500,000 trees planted across the state over the next 10 years.
State Local Government, Housing, Town and Country Planning Committee chairman Jagdeep Singh Deo said this was important to preserve the state forest areas and also to battle climate change.
“From 2018 until 2021, both local councils, namely Penang Island City Council (MBPP) and Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP), have planted 40,012 trees and 30,222 trees respectively.
“So, in total, we have planted 70,234 trees in the state. Hopefully by 2023, we can plant 200,000 trees and reach our target of 500,000 trees by 2030.
“After all, tree planting can help to restore greenery and beautify our state. Thus, I urge Penangites to also participate in this initiative and plant trees in whatever way they can.
“They can plant the trees in their own yards or farms. This is because the more people participate, the faster we can reach our goal,” Jagdeep said in his speech before he officiated the tree planting programme at MBSP Eco Corridor, Bandar Perda in Bukit Mertajam today.
Also present was MBSP mayor Datuk Rozali Mohamud.
The tree planting activity was organised by MBSP in conjunction with Earth Day that falls on April 22 every year.
Some 50 Tecoma saplings were planted during the launch.
According to Rozali, MBSP plans to plant more trees in various locations that have open spaces in Seberang Perai to create more forest parks that can benefit the community.
“The city council also will plant more fruit trees on the mainland with the hope that it can be turned into a food bank later,” he added.
Rozali also reminded the public about the importance of maintaining greenery.
“The reforestation efforts are actually a joint responsibility of everyone and not the sole responsibility of the state government only.
“After all, reforestation helps to expand forest resources and prevent soil erosion. It also has a significant influence on air quality and the landscape’s visual appeal.
“Thus, each one of us should do our best to plant more trees for our benefits and future generations,” he said.
Story by Riadz Akmal / Pix by Ahmad Adil Muhamad