Nation building lessons from the jungle — Chrishen Gomez
SEPTEMBER 13 — The intrinsic value of forests was recently brought to the fore of public dialogue, with images of a burning Amazonian forest shocking netizens. This situation was sadly met with gross apathy, with it hardly making international news up till two weeks into the continuous burning. Our response to this incredible loss spurred a re-evaluation of both our understanding of the forest, and appreciation of it.
As a wildlife biologist working in the primary forest of Tawau Hills Park, I’ve been privileged to call the forest my home. For the past year, I have worked as the research manager to a project studying some of the most elusive carnivores in the jungles of Borneo, led by pioneering researchers with the help of passionate local Sabahan men and women who have grown alongside the forest all their lives. This experience has already been one of the most consequential adventures in my life.
It consistently forces me out of my comforts and compels me to adapt to the challenging environments I live in. However, the greatest gift this experience has invariably offered me, is the fresh understanding I have on our nation and its identity. Yes, walking through our jungles on a daily basis has taught me more about the strength of our nation than any textbook ever has.
As a young nation, conversations about our national identity is still relevant and needs greater attention. The most important thing I have learnt this last year, is that Malaysia is truly full of surprises. There is always more to explore, to learn, to experience and enjoy. Malaysia is truly a gift that keeps on giving should we only take the time to unwrap its many layers.
*Chrishen Gomez is a recent winner of the Merdeka Award Grant for International Attachment 2019 and a full-time wildlife biologist, working as the Research Manager for the Bornean Carnivore Programme, by the Wildlife Research and Conservation Unit at Oxford University.Malay Mail.
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