Practical Approach to Sustainability
Following a morning briefing, twenty-nine SMEC team members split into two groups, each assigned to a specific zone within Zoo Negara. The goal was clear: contribute to long-term ecological resilience through thoughtful, hands-on restoration. In addition to planting, the teams carried out soil preparation and weeding, with activities tailored to the conditions and needs of each site.
Group A worked near The Wild Restaurant and Dataran Dato’ Ismail Hutson, planting bromeliads, Duranta and Calliandra. These species were selected not only for their visual appeal but for their adaptability to Malaysia’s tropical climate, requiring minimal maintenance while offering year-round greenery. Group B focused on the Seladang India exhibit, planting Heliconia ‘Tropic Fleur’, a vibrant tropical species known for its upright blooms and lush foliage that adds both shade and biodiversity value.
The planting zones and tasks were coordinated with Zoo Negara’s horticultural team to ensure alignment with broader conservation and landscape goals. By integrating ecological knowledge with practical teamwork, the activity demonstrated how sustainability can be both strategic and collaborative, which mirrors SMEC’s broader commitment to responsible development.