Their mission? To paint a vivid reminder of the critical role rivers play in Malaysia’s ecosystem and economy.
As the World Rivers Day is celebrated on the fourth Sunday of September each year, this innovative project brings together students, businesses, and environmental specialists in a colourful celebration of conservation of the World’s Waterways.
The Art of Awareness: Murals with a Message
Award-winning creative agency Muma has partnered with wastewater treatment specialist Shielder Eco Waste Management to create a series of murals that do more than just beautify urban spaces.
These highly detailed frescoes depict the symbiotic relationship between healthy river ecosystems and the diverse life they support, both in the water and on land.
Choo Chee Wee, Muma Co-Founder and Creative Partner, explains the project’s inception: “We were working with Shielder on branding initiatives when we saw an opportunity to create an impactful and long-lasting programme for World Rivers Day. The biggest reward for any creative agency is to deliver an idea that works both for the client and the greater good.”
The murals feature a whimsical array of Malaysia’s iconic fauna, from hawksbill sea turtles gliding through underwater scenes to tigers, sun bears, and orangutans inhabiting lush riverbanks.
Amidst this vibrant ecosystem, cartoon-like bacteria are depicted as “water guardians,” highlighting the crucial role of microorganisms in maintaining river health.
Students at the Forefront: The Next Generation of Environmental Stewards
At the heart of this initiative are the students from Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology.
These budding artists from the Pre-University and Faculty of Communication and Creative Industries programmes have shown remarkable dedication, working tirelessly under the blazing sun to bring the murals to life.
Their commitment is a testament to the growing environmental consciousness among Malaysia’s youth.
By involving students in this project, Muma and Shielder are not just creating art; they’re nurturing the next generation of environmental advocates.
Business and Environment: A Symbiotic Relationship
The mural project serves as a powerful reminder that environmental conservation and economic growth need not be at odds.
Dragon Lee, Co-Founder of Shielder Eco Waste Management, emphasises this point: “While manufacturing is important to our economy, it should not be at the expense of our rivers, which are our country’s key water source.”
Shielder’s innovative approach to wastewater treatment exemplifies how businesses can thrive while protecting the environment.
Their patented self-sustaining water treatment process creates a healthy ecosystem where beneficial bacteria continuously purify wastewater, ensuring that effluent is clean and odor-free upon discharge.
This eco-friendly solution has garnered support from local businesses, with companies like Yamazaki Seiga and Mars Global offering their premises as canvases for the murals.
These collaborations demonstrate how corporate social responsibility initiatives can create tangible, visible impacts in local communities.
Painting A Brighter, Cleaner Future For Malaysia’s Rivers
In conjunction with the World Rivers Day, this mural project serves as a compelling example of how art, education, and business can converge to address pressing environmental issues.
The initiative has the potential to grow year after year, involving more students, businesses, and communities in the vital work of river conservation.
Lee concludes, “The mural project involves multiple parties and is a true reflection of any conservation effort where everyone has an important part to play. Together as one, we aim to create a long-term positive impact through awareness and sustainable solutions.”
In a world where environmental challenges can often seem overwhelming, these vibrant murals offer a splash of hope.
They remind us that with creativity, collaboration, and commitment, we can paint a brighter, cleaner future for Malaysia’s rivers—and for the countless lives that depend on them.
