RECENTLY, the merbau was selected as our national tree. The choice is indeed a wise one.

The merbau is found all over the country, including in Sabah and Sarawak. It is a hardwood, and stands tall and majestic in its natural environment.

The selection of this tree on the eve of our 62nd Merdeka came with psychological importance. It lends an element of strength and reinforces the importance of unity in our collective psyche at a time when there are efforts to undermine our integrity.

From the nation-building perspective, the merbau serves as a reminder that sustainable development is possible. Forest-clearing for development can be done if we uphold good environmental practices – as what we have done for the past 62 years.

Having a national tree in our collective consciousness elevates our awareness on the importance of taking sustainable development to the next level. It also helps instil a sense of pride over the country’s flora and fauna. At 130 million years old, we have one of the oldest rainforests in the world, teeming with a vibrant living ecosystem.

There were some who questioned how the tree was selected, and suggested that the pick should have been based on a vote. The truth is, unlike with flowers, or logos for Visit Malaysia Year 2020, Malaysians generally know very little about tree species. Most live in concrete jungles, oblivious to the nitty-gritty details of the foliage that still covers more than half of the nation. I believe this was why the government made the selection.

On that note, I implore all Malaysians to visit the Hutan Kita exhibition taking place at the KL Tower until September 22. Entrance is free. Last weekend, I brought my grandchildren, who, like many Malaysians their age, had only a scant idea of what Malaysian forests looked like. Needless to say, it was an eye-opening experience for them, being exposed for the first time to the numerous facets of nature.

I believe this is the first time such an exhibition is being held, and in the spirit of Merdeka this month, everyone should pay a visit to the Hutan Kita exhibition. – September 4, 2019.

* Hew King Tiong reads The Malaysian Insight.

* This is the opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malaysian Insight. Article may be edited for brevity and clarity.