The artistic side of Bako National Park

 The Malaysian Nature Society Kuching Branch (MNSKB) and the Sarawak Artists Society (SAS) organised a visit to Bako National Park as a lead up to the conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. This trip was supported by the Sarawak Forest Department

The visit, which was on September 27, 2015, introduced SAS members to the beauty of the park while providing artistic inspiration.

The artwork will be displayed in Kuching at The Spring on the 2^nd and 29^rd November.  Then it will be shown at the conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change in Kuala Lumpur from 21^st November to 20^th December.

Rose Au Deputy Chair of the MNSKB led the group through the mangrove forests that edged the cliffs.  These forests are often wrongly thought of being muddy wastelands; in reality they are thriving beautiful communities.

Sebastian Jong, SAS secretary, said he thought the mangroves were just plants, but they have strength that we never knew about. 

Jong said, "They are stronger than anything else by the shore and can stand firm again a tsunami."

The group while sketching saw an international visitor stuck in the mangrove mud and immediately went to show her the way to hard sandy mangrove area where they were drawing.

Rose Au said that this was a warning of hazards and that all visitors should remain with their guides and groups.  They should not strike off on their own.  All members of the group were glad she was safe.

Mary Margaret, MNS member, said that this trip was an exciting opportunity to connect with, be inspired by the stunning Bako National Park and the natural world.