TO devote one’s life to the preservation and research of wildlife is a choice not taken lighty and to perservere with it despite the inevitable obstacles, demands a passion not easily extinguished.
A statement best attached to Professor Chan Eng Heng, who has, for over 20 years, been carrying out research and conservation work on turtles.
This hands-on, enthusiastic mother of two has recieved global recognition for her work. Most notably she was one of the recipients of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Global 500 Roll of Honour for Environmental Achievement in 2001.
Not to mention her inclusion in UNEP’s Who’s Who of Women and the Environment in 2006, honouring women who have made significant and recognised contribution, nationally, regionally or globally, in the field of the environment.
A breakthrough was achieved in 2004 when the Chief Minister of Terengganu responded to her long-standing appeal to ban the commercial exploitation of turtle eggs and subsequently accorded sanctuary status for major nesting beaches in the state.
She continues to be tireless in her efforts as an advocate, teacher and guide to young and curious minds.
Her website and blog (www.umt.edu.my/turtle), hosted by Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, where she is currently attached, offers an informative glimpse into the world of turtle conservation and acts as a forum for volunteers, research students and interested members of the public to interact.
When did you start to blog?
I started blogging only in April of 2008. I am able to spread the message of turtle conservation, create awareness and get people to pledge not to eat turtle eggs for the rest of their lives to help save turtles.
Your reasons?
It’s mainly to keep my volunteers posted of the activities carried out by the Turtle Research and Rehabilittion Group (SEATRU), provide updates on the conservation projects and also to keep track of the many activities that the conservation project is involved in.
Has blogging changed your life?
Not really. However, I am taking more photographs and noting more details about things happening.
Any regrets through blogging?
None at all.
What in the Blogosphere amazes you?
I am not really too absorbed into blogging. Apart from writing my own blog, I hardly ever read other people’s blogs. This is because I am often hard pressed for time.
What would you really like to achieve?
To get more people interested in turtle conservation and to let people know that being a conservationist can actually be a lot of fun. Of course, that is apart from all the hard work, heartache, dedication, etc that go with it.
Any additional thoughts on blogging?
I think one has to be responsible when blogging, as in all other things in life. One cannot use this tool to talk bad about others, as I have seen this done, and must not mislead others. In other words, be honest, be fair and be truthful to oneself.
This article was taken from: The Malay Mail: Cyberspot 14 August 2008
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