SUCH an array of intricate spectacular biodiversity,
A testimony of our living ecological heritage and resource,
Home and nursery to varied terrestrial and marine wildlife,
Here lies some of the world’s most productive ecosystems.
It mitigates floods and forms a natural barrier to the storms,
It is a melting pot of curious rich and vital flora and fauna,
Nature’s gift of mangroves, marsh, peat forests, rivers and lakes,
Yet few research and venture to discover these incredible wetlands.
Whenever we indulge in seafood of crabs, prawns and fishes alike,
Let’s acknowledge the priceless role of the amazing wetlands,
They even generate livelihoods to the deprived but happy fishermen,
Globally, we are blessed with diverse wetlands of international importance.
Wetlands regulate water treatment, have direct bearing on climate change,
Nonetheless, it is most misunderstood by rapacious politicians,
Their demise will be a tragedy for mankind and the environment,
It is imperative we accept wetlands as lifelines and tap resources sustainably.
To city planners and developers, please do exercise economic evaluations,
Before destroying fragile ecosystems and wetlands paraphernalia.
There’s so much direct and indirect values in these diversity reservoirs,
Please preserve these wetland treasures of Mother Earth, before it is too late.
n HARBAN SINGH, Vice-president, Malaysian Nature Society, Kuala Lumpur