Sungai congkak renaissence EVA410 AM2263B - GROUP 1 The Mar - Aug 2024 DEG019 MUHAMMAD LUQMAN ANIS MAISARAH AIMAN AFIQ NURUL JANNAH PUTERI ALISA
1 03 05 07 09 An introduction to the Ecosystem Get to know the types of climate and characteristics Three main issue discussed Four solutions discussed Sungai Congkak The Characteristics & Climate Environmental Issue Recommendation 13 Integrated Composting Machine Generation 1 (IntComp Gen 1) Innovation TABLE contents of Conclusion 15
Bachelor of Environmemtal Administration (Hons) AM226 Faculty of Administrative Science & Policy Studies Editor-in-Chief Managing Editor Content Director Muhammad Luqman Bin Ahmad 2024349351 Nurul Jannah Binti Muhammad Zamri 2024914331 Creative Director Contributing Editor Puteri Alisa Safiah Binti Megat Faizal 2024509223 Nur Aiman Afiq Bin Noraziz 2024975907 Anis Maisarah Binti Yang Amri 2024565631 The Ecosystem in sungaicongkak 2
Sungai congkak Sungai Congkak in Selangor is a biodiverse tropical rainforest near Kuala Lumpur, perfect for camping, picnicking, swimming, and hiking, with essential amenities and a focus on conservation. 3
The area is protected to preserve its natural environment and biodiversity, ensuring the conservation of its ecological integrity for future generations to enjoy.In the Sungai Congkak ecosystem, ecological interactions play a key role in maintaining environmental balance and health. The food web is complex, starting with primary producers such as plants and algae, which convert sunlight into energy through photosynthesis. These producers form the base of the food web and support a range of herbivores such as insects, small mammals and birds. These herbivores in turn provide food for predators such as larger birds, reptiles and carnivores. Decomposers, including fungi and bacteria, play an important role in nutrient cycling by breaking down dead organic matter, such as fallen leaves and dead animals, into simpler substances. This decomposition process releases nutrients back into the soil and water, allowing plants to absorb them and thus continue the growth of primary producers. Symbiotic relationships are also important in this ecosystem. Many plants depend on the reproduction of certain pollinators such as bees, butterflies and birds. These pollinators depend on the nectar and pollen provided by the plants, which describes a mutual relationship that benefits both parties. In addition, certain plants evolved through animal seed dispersal; for example, fruits eaten by birds and mammals cause seeds to spread in feces. These interactions highlight the interconnectedness of species in the Sungai Congkak ecosystem, showing how the survival and prosperity of one species often depends on the existence and health of others. Such complex relationships emphasize the importance of each component in maintaining ecological balance. Sungai Congkak, located in the Hulu Langat District of Selangor, Malaysia, is a vibrant tropical rainforest ecosystem, characterized by its rich biodiversity and dense vegetation typical of lowland dipterocarp forests. The study area is at Sungai Congkak Recreational Forest (SCRF) Selangor. SCRF is located at about 3º 12ˊ 42.32˝N 101º 50ˊ 36.46˝E. It is about 33.5km from Kuala Lumpur (Kuala Lumpur is located at about 3º 08ˊ 20.45˝N 101º 41ˊ 12.68˝E). The size of the area is 2800 hectare. Sungai Congkak Recreational Forest is a popular recreational forest in the Hulu Langat district of Selangor state. It is also known as Congkak Park and Resort (CPR) and is managed by Tourism Selangor (Amin Bakri et al., 2016) .This area offers a variety of recreational activities including camping, picnicking, swimming in the river's clear waters, and hiking along its trails. The forest is home to diverse flora such as dipterocarps, ferns, and orchids, as well as fauna including insects, birds, small mammals, and reptiles, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers. Sungai Congkak is easily accessible from Kuala Lumpur, with well-maintained roads and available parking facilities. Basic amenities like restrooms, picnic tables, shelters, chalets, and lodges are provided to enhance visitors' experiences. 4 Main entrance to Sungai Congkak S
Sungai Congkak in Selangor, Malaysia, is renowned for its vibrant tropical rainforest ecosystem, which boasts rich biodiversity and dense vegetation typical of lowland dipterocarp forests. The area's flora includes an abundance of lowland dipterocarp trees, ferns, orchids, and various other plant species thriving in the humid, tropical climate. Its diverse fauna, comprising 41 diurnal birds species (Amin Bakri et al., 2016) , small mammals, reptiles, and insects, offers a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts to observe numerous bird species and wildlife. The dense vegetation of Sungai Congkak's forest provides a lush, green canopy crucial for maintaining the ecological balance and offering habitats for many species while regulating the microclimate within. Visitors to Sungai Congkak can partake in a variety of recreational activities, including camping at well-maintained campsites, picnicking amidst serene environments with scenic views, swimming in the clear, cool river waters, and hiking along numerous trails of varying difficulty levels, providing opportunities to explore the area's rich biodiversity. Uncover Sungai Congkak: Malaysia's hidden gem! Dive into lush rainforests, clear waters, and vibrant wildlife. Enjoy hiking, swimming, and conservation efforts in this beloved sanctuary. 5 The Cnaracteristics "Discover the lush wonders of Sungai Congkak: where rich biodiversity, dense forests, and thrilling adventures converge in a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike." Additionally, the proximity of Sungai Congkak to Kuala Lumpur makes it easily accessible for both locals and tourists, with basic amenities such as restrooms, picnic tables, shelters, chalets, and lodges available for visitors, ensuring a comfortable stay. Conservation efforts are paramount in preserving Sungai Congkak's natural environment and biodiversity, aimed at maintaining the ecological integrity of the forest and river to ensure its continued health and vibrancy for future generations. Moreover, the addition of the Skytrex adventure park, offering thrilling activities like zip-lining and obstacle courses among the treetops, further enhances Sungai Congkak's appeal as a versatile destination that combines scenic beauty, recreational opportunities, and conservation efforts—a beloved haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. &Climate
6 Sungai Congkak experiences a tropical rainforest climate, characterized by high humidity and significant rainfall throughout the year. The average temperature at sungai congkak as in 2024, ranges from 23°C to 32°C (AccuWeather, n.d.) , with the dry season typically occurring from October to March due to the northeast monsoon, and the wet season from June to September during the southwest monsoon. The average rainfall from May to Jun 2024 is 0.5 mm and it can be up to 24.5 mm (Public Info Banjir, n.d.). This consistent tropical climate supports the lush vegetation and diverse wildlife found in Sungai Congkak. The area's stable climate conditions make it an ideal location for the flourishing of various plant and animal species, contributing to its rich biodiversity. Overall, Sungai Congkak's climate is influenced by its tropical location, with warm temperatures and high humidity year-round, punctuated by distinct wet and dry seasons. Sungai Congkak Temperature Graph (2024) Rainfall data in Sungai Congkak
7 Air Pollution Air pollution in Sungai Congkak can have several detrimental effects on the environment and human health. One major consequence is acid deposition, commonly known as acid rain, which occurs when pollutants like NOx and SO2 react with water and oxygen, leading to the formation of acidic compounds that pollute soil and water. Additionally, pollutants in the air can cause forest damage by disrupting plant biochemical processes, resulting in changes to growth, yield, and quality. This damage is often caused by sulfur compounds, nitrogen compounds, ozone, and heavy metals. Furthermore, high concentrations of air pollution, such as sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxide, and particulate matter from burning activities and vehicles, can irritate the nose and throat, particularly in individuals with asthma, leading to respiratory problems. Overall, addressing air pollution in Sungai Congkak is crucial to mitigate these harmful impacts on both the environment and public health (Mohd Nazar, 2008). 01 Environmental issue Sungai Congkak battles air pollution, health risks, and sanitation issues, emphasizing the need for improved waste management.
8 Water Pollution Accidental ingestion of river water during swimming or bathing was significantly associated with typhoid infection, indicating contaminated water as a source of transmission. Environmental factors such as poor sanitation were evident, with leaking septic tanks and malfunctioning toilets observed in the park. Construction activities in the park, coupled with the presence of foreign workers who camped near the river and used it for bathing and washing, likely contributed to environmental contamination. Food premises in the park were located near leaking septic tanks, potentially exposing visitors to contaminated food and water. Furthermore, the main water supply to the park was untreated river water, posing a risk of waterborne transmission. Overall, a combination of poor sanitation, contaminated water sources, and environmental factors facilitated the outbreak of typhoid cases in Sungai Congkak (Suleiman, 2009). 02 Food Waste Food waste at Sungai Congkak's recreational river occurred due to several reasons. Firstly, visitors to the recreational area brought food items with them for picnics or gatherings, resulting in leftover food scraps and packaging materials. Additionally, food vendors operating within the park's food court generated waste during food preparation and serving processes. This waste included trimmings, peelings, spoiled food, and packaging materials such as plastic wrappers and containers. Furthermore, inadequate waste management practices, such as the lack of proper disposal bins or recycling facilities, contributed to food waste accumulation in the area. Improperly discarded food waste not only created aesthetic issues but also attracted pests and wildlife, leading to environmental pollution and potential health hazards. Therefore, implementing effective waste management strategies, such as providing designated bins for food waste collection and promoting recycling initiatives, was crucial to mitigate food waste problems at Sungai Congkak's recreational river (Jie,2018). 03
Recommendation 9 01. Plantation 02. Water Treatment 03. Composting This is the intentional act of introducing new tree growth by placing saplings or seeds into the ground. It's done to conserve the environment, restore ecosystems, beautify landscapes, and mitigate climate change. This can occur in various settings, from urban areas to forests and along water bodies, to stabilize soil, improve air and water quality, provide wildlife habitat, and offer other benefits. This is the process of removing impurities and contaminants from water to make it safe for various uses, including drinking and industrial processes. It involves several stages, such as coagulation, sedimentation, filtration, disinfection, and sometimes additional methods like pH adjustment and desalination. The goal is to produce water that meets regulatory standards and is free from harmful substances. This is the process of recycling organic waste into a valuable soil amendment known as compost. This practice not only reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills but also enriches soil, helps retain moisture, and suppresses plant diseases and pests
Plantation Methods Various methods are used for plantation, depending on scale and objectives. Manual planting involves hand-placing seedlings or seeds, while mechanical planting uses machinery for larger areas. Agroforestry integrates trees into agriculture, riparian planting focuses on water bodies, and urban forestry enhances city landscapes. Afforestation and reforestation restore degraded areas, and community forestry engages locals in tree planting. These methods collectively contribute to environmental, social, and economic sustainability. Plantation, or tree planting, offers extensive benefits. Trees absorb CO2 and release oxygen, helping fight climate change. An acre of trees absorbs as much CO2 as driving a car 26,000 miles a year and one tree provides oxygen for four people. Trees purify air by absorbing pollutant gases and trapping particulates. An acre of mature trees produces enough oxygen for 18 people annually. Tree coverage reduces city temperatures. As tree coverage declines, cities replace trees with heat-absorbing asphalt and buildings, increasing temperatures. Trees can cool cities by up to 10°F by providing shade and releasing water. Strategically placed trees around homes reduce air conditioning needs, saving money and lowering CO2 emissions. Green roofs, which incorporate vegetation, offer environmental benefits and reduce cooling costs (Greenpop, 2023). Benefits Planting materials include seedlings, seeds, cuttings, saplings, and transplants. Seedlings are young plants ready for transplanting, while seeds can be directly sown or germinated in nurseries. Cuttings propagate new plants, saplings are larger nurserygrown trees, and transplants are established plants ready for direct planting. These materials are essential for establishing vegetation in diverse landscapes( K, I. P. ,2021). Planting Materials Implementation Malaysian Nature Society (MNS): A non-governmental organization focused on conservation and environmental education. MNS organizes tree planting events, conservation projects, and public awareness campaigns about the benefits of green spaces. Global Environment Centre (GEC): An NGO dedicated to environmental protection and sustainable management of natural resources. GEC works on various environmental projects, including river and forest conservation, tree planting initiatives, and community engagement programs. 10
Watertreatment Water treatment at waterfalls enhances their natural beauty and protects ecosystems by preserving water purity and clarity. This practice promotes recreational activities, supports sustainable tourism, and educates visitors about conservation. Additionally, clean water ensures public health by reducing the risk of waterborne illnesses. Overall, water treatment contributes to the conservation and enjoyment of these natural treasures. Benefits Methods The first step of getting water treated is through coagulation. This involves adding chemicals with a positive charge to the water which should neutralize the negative charge of dirt and other dissolved substances. Such chemicals include iron and specific types of salt. Second is flocculation. This step refers to the process of gently mixing the water to create larger, heavier particles known as flocs. In most cases, additional chemicals are being added to the water to allow the flocs to form easily.Once flocs form, they settle to the bottom of the water because they are heavier. This is called sedimentation in water treatment, which is one of the processes that water treatment plants use in separating the solids, such as flocs, from the water before going to the next step.The water again goes through another process of solids separation through filtration. The separated, clear water on top now passes through filteration process using filters with various pore sizes, made from different materials such as sand and gravel. Ultimately, these filters are in place to help remove dissolved particles and unwanted substances from the water.During disinfection, any remaining parasites, bacteria, and viruses must be eliminated. This can be done by adding one or more chemical disinfectants to water such as chlorine or chlorine dioxide because chemical disinfectants help eliminate the remaining unwanted microorganisms. (SafetyCulture 2023). Department of Environment (DOE) Enforces environmental regulations, including those related to water quality. Monitors water pollution and implements policies for environmental protection. Implementation 11
Composting Methods Composting offers multifaceted benefits to the environment, economy, plant life, and community. It serves as a pivotal tool in combating climate change both individually and collectively. Initiating the process is simpler than commonly perceived, providing a straightforward remedy to a complex global issue. Environmentally, composting curtails methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas, and curbs the accumulation of compostable waste in landfills, which encroach upon natural habitats and contaminate surrounding regions. Economically, diverting compost from general waste lowers garbage expenses while yielding a valuable resource. From a horticultural perspective, compost supplies vital nutrients for robust plant development, negating the need for chemical additives. Cultivating a closed-loop system through composting fosters a more resilient food network, strengthening community ties and sustainability efforts (Pogoy, R. 2022). Benefits For a healthy compost pile, balance green materials like fruit scraps and grass clippings with brown materials such as dried leaves and shredded paper. Avoid composting meat, dairy, pet waste, diseased plants, chemically treated wood, and invasive weeds to prevent issues. This creates nutrient-rich compost for soil and plant health (Planet Natural ,2023). Compost Materials There are several effective composting methods to choose from, each suited to different needs and spaces. Backyard composting involves collecting organic waste in a pile or bin, which is periodically turned to aerate the material and speed up decomposition. Vermicomposting uses worms, typically red wigglers, to break down organic waste into high-quality compost, making it ideal for small spaces or indoor composting. Tumbler composting employs a compost tumbler, which simplifies the process of turning and aerating the compost, thereby accelerating decomposition. Bokashi composting, uses a fermentation process with a special inoculant to compost all types of food waste. Each method offers unique benefits, allowing gardeners to choose the one that best fits their space and composting needs (Vickib, 2023). Finished compost is incredibly versatile and beneficial for various gardening applications. In the garden, it can be mixed into garden beds to enhance soil structure and fertility, promoting healthier plant growth. When used as mulch, a layer of compost spread around plants helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and gradually releases nutrients into the soil. For lawn care, top-dressing with compost provides essential nutrients and improves soil health, resulting in a lush, green lawn. Additionally, compost can be mixed with soil to create a rich, nutritious planting medium for pots and containers, offering an excellent balance of nutrients and drainage. By utilizing finished compost in these ways, gardeners can significantly enhance the health and productivity of their plants and soil. Finishedcompost Implementation Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Corporation (SWCorp) Oversees solid waste management and public cleansing in Malaysia. Promotes composting and waste reduction initiatives, conducts public awareness campaigns, and supports community composting programs. 12
Innovation- iNTCOMPGEN1 13 The innovation that we make to overcome the food waste issue as well as air pollutuion is Integrated Composting Machine Gen 1 (IntComp Gen 1) . IntComp Gen 1 is a machine that turn waste into wealth. It doing so by composting the waste in the most effective environment so the compost will not take a long time to complete composting. To encourage people to use IntComp Gen 1, it will also give rewards in a form of coupon or vouchers based on the weight of the waste dumped into the machine. The coupon or vouchers can be redeemed at any shop or supermarket that are in cooperation with IntComp Gen 1. To reduce the waste of paper, the coupon or vouchers will be given in the form of QR Code. Integrated Composting Machine Generation 1 (IntCom Gen 1) IntComp Gen 1 not only compost the waste, it also sell the end product which is the fertilizer and methane gas. Both of them can be purchased at reasonable prices. The fertilizers can be purchased and used by the locals which can benefit the area surounding. It can also help with the air pollution by growing more trees around the area. The methane gas can be used for cooking. With many tourist bringing their own portable gas stove, the IntComp Gen 1 can provide cooking gas for them. This also can help reduce the smoke emission from barbeque, since gas stove produce much less smoke than charchoals burning.
14 innovation-A-Guardtube Aqua Guard Tube(A-Guard Tube) is an innovation to counter the water pollution. AGuard Tube is a cylindrical device that were placed underwater to filter a certain body of water. It functions is to filter any pollutants that were inside the water as well as detect if there are any dangerous water contamination detected around the area the device was placed. A-Guard Tube were designed to filter the water just like how river water were filtered naturally, in exception that it filters it way faster and less time consuming than it will takes to do naturally. It also equipped with a censor that can detect a dangerous pollutant such as toxic waste and will send an emergency signals to the guard that were assigned to protect the area. The guard then will quickly take actions based on what happened in the said area. This can prevent any unwanted water pollutions from the early stages. A-Guard Tube can also send signals if the device need a maintenance to the guards. Not only that, The A-Guard Tube use the turbine inside the device to power itself so it can always operate as long as the water current did not stops. To make things better, this devices were planted underwater or hidden between stones to prevent it from drifting due to the river current. It also planted underwater or between stones to avoid it being seen. With this there will be no weird things caught in the beautiful sceneries of the rivers.
15 Conclusion In conclusion, there are so many natural beauties such as Sungai Congkak in the world and it is our job to protect them from pollution. It is really important to protect this environment especially with the rise of the global warming which can lead to many problems such as river water level goes down since climate change knows no borders. Even though it is just a small effort of composting and planting, we can reduce the pollution at a significant rate and sustain the environment through out the years. Sustainable development represents the pathway to the future we envision for all. Our aspiration is that these environments can be maintained or enhanced so that future generations will have the opportunity to witness and enjoy the same profound and aesthetically pleasing experiences.
16 References AccuWeather. (n.d.). Kampong Kuala Pangsun, Selangor, Malaysia Monthly Weather | AccuWeather. https://www.accuweather.com/en/my/kampong-kuala- pangsun/230448/june-weather/230448 Amin Bakri, Ebil Yusof, Mohamed Zakaria, Mohamad Roslan, & Faculty of Forestry, Universiti Putra Malaysia. (2016). THE DIVERSITY OF DIURNAL BIRD’S SPECIES IN SUNGAI CHONGKAK RECREATIONAL FOREST SELANGOR. International Journal of Agriculture, Forestry and Plantation, Vol. 2 (February.) (2462–1757). Public Info banjir. (n.d.). DEPARTMENT OF IRRIGATION AND DRAINAGE MALAYSIA, MINISTRY OF ENERGY TRANSITION AND WATER TRANSFORMATION. Retrieved June 4, 2024, from https://publicinfobanjir.water.gov.my/hujan/data-hujan/?state=SEL&lang=en Greenpop. (2023, November 10). 10 Environmental benefits of planting a tree. Greenpop. https://greenpop.org/10-environmental-benefits-planting-tree/ Jie, Y. J. (2018, February 11). MM FEB 2018: SG. CONGKAK RIVER CLEAN-UP. Raleigh Kuala Lumpur. Retrieved June 5, 2024, from http://raleighinternational.org.my/news/news-and-events/65 K, I. P., & K, I. P. (2021, September 2). From seedlings to saplings: The science of choosing best planting material. TrustBasket. https://www.trustbasket.com/blogs/how-to-grow/selection-of-planting-materials Pogoy, R. (2022, March 22). 13 Benefits of composting: environmental, financial, gardening & more. Lomi. https://lomi.com/blogs/news/benefits-of-composting Suleiman, A. B. (2009, February 26). ORIGINAL ARTICLE - Risk Factors for Typhoid Outbreak in Sungai Congkak Recreational Park, Selangor 2009. Medical Journal of Malaysia. Retrieved June 5, 2024, from https://www.e-mjm.org/2012/v67n1/Typhoid_Outbreak.pdf Mohd Nazar, A. Z. (2008). Presence of escherichia coli in selected recreational water sites in Hulu Langat and their healths effect among children / Ahmad Zamzuri Mohd Nazar. Planet Natural. (2023, August 6). What to Compost (Ingredients) | Planet Natural. https://www.planetnatural.com/composting-101/making/what-to-use/ Vickib. (2023, September 23). 8 Methods of Composting » Direct Compost Solutions. Direct Compost Solutions. https://directcompostsolutions.com/8-methods-composting/ Water treatment: importance & process | SafetyCulture. (2023, December 13). SafetyCulture. https://safetyculture.com/topics/water-treatment/
Mar - Aug 2024 DEG019