Canon and partners celebrate World Wetlands Day in Penang

Canon Marketing Malaysia, in collaboration with the Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) and Shorebirds Peninsular Malaysia Project (SPMP), hosted a series of bird conservation awareness activities at Sungai Tembus, Penang, to mark World Wetlands Day. The event showcased a range of diverse activities, highlighting the commitment to environmental education and conservation.

The centerpiece of the event was the unveiling of a dedicated microsite for shorebirds in Malaysia. Sponsored by Canon and developed by SPMP, the microsite provides extensive information on over 70 shorebird species, offering insights into their habitats across Malaysia. The platform also features a special section showcasing the experiences of birders using Canon cameras, along with valuable photography tips and tricks.

YB Dato’ Seri Sundarajoo Somu, Penang EXCO for Housing and Environment, expressed gratitude for hosting the bird conservation activities in Sungai Tembus, emphasizing the significance of Penaga Wetlands as a biodiversity haven. He remarked, “The event aligns with MBSP’s mission to contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals, showcasing our commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable practices.”

Participants, including Daren Tan (Head of Penang Branch at Canon Marketing Malaysia), Dr. Nur Munira Azman (founder of SPMP), YBhg Dato’ Azhar Bin Haji Arshad (Mayor of Seberang Perai), and YB Dato’ Seri Sundarajoo Somu, gained firsthand insights into Penaga Wetlands as a crucial habitat for shorebirds and a prime destination for eco-tourism.

Engaging birding tours and educational talks

The day’s activities extended beyond the microsite launch, featuring a birding tour by boat at Sungai Tembus, where guests were equipped with Canon cameras for bird watching. Educational talks on shorebirds and bird photography, accompanied by a bird ringing demonstration, enriched the participants’ experience.

Daren Tan, Head of Penang Branch at Canon Marketing Malaysia, stated, “Guided by Canon’s corporate philosophy of ‘Kyosei,’ we are delighted to collaborate with our partners to emphasize the significance of these ecosystems for their sustainability.”

Under its overarching message, “Imaging for Good,” Canon reiterates its commitment to cultivating a better and more sustainable society. Canon’s dedication to environmental initiatives is evident through ongoing endeavors in Sungai Tembus, where, in 2023, the company planted 200 mangrove trees, contributing to the preservation of the pristine forest and promoting awareness of ecological conservation.

The event underscored the importance of photography in documenting and championing the conservation of shorebirds and their habitats. For more information about shorebirds in Malaysia, visit the microsite at https://shorebirds.my.