80 ELCC children explore nature at Matang wildlife centre
KUCHING: Is that a monkey? What is the difference between crocodiles with narrow ( false gharial) and big snouts ( estuarine crocodiles)? Why are the bearcats and clouded leopards not moving? Which is the male and female sambar deer? Why are the orang utans and hornbills kept in cages? Why are the gibbons calling so loudly?
These are some of the many questions asked by children aged between seven and 12 years old during their outing with WWF- Malaysia at Matang Wildlife Rehabilitation centre, near here recently, as they curiously explore their new environment surrounded by the lush rainforest and rehabilitated animals.
About 80 children from Eco Lodge Care Centre ( ELCC) had a whale of a time learning about environmental conservation and Sarawak’s rich biodiversity through interactive activities held by WWF- Malaysia in a two- day programme with the centre.
ELCC, the first centre in Kuching to specialise in before and after- school care services, co- organised the programme to acquaint the children with the wonders of nature and impart in them a sense of respect and appreciation for nature, and how they can help Mother Nature to be a better place.
The programme, divided into classroom and outdoor sessions, was part of ELCC’s school holiday package.
The centre’s principal Eileen Chua thanked WWF- Malaysia for giving the children a funfilled time as they learned about Sarawak’s flora and fauna, and WWF- Malaysia’s work in Sarawak, through interactive presentations which the children enjoyed.
The special appearance by WWF’s panda mascot also made the programme very memorable for the children.