Why Sacred Currents

When the entire world was besieged by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and Kuala Lumpur was under lockdown, I, like many Malaysians, witnessed something extraordinary.

Peering out of my window, I beheld clear, blue skies and a river flowing past my home that was suddenly teeming with life. Fish darting in its crystal-clear waters, unfamiliar birds gracing its banks, and wildlife thriving in the neighbourhood. It was a revelation. The absence of human activity seemed to breathe life back into the environment, revealing the profound impact our actions have on nature.

The virus, in its own way, conveyed a message – a message of hope amidst despair. It showed us that reversing decades of ecological damage is possible if we prioritise environmental stewardship. Inspired by this revelation, I embarked on a personal journey to honour Malaysia’s lifegiving rivers through the project “Sacred Currents - An Homage to Malaysia’s Living, Life-Giving Rivers.”

My motivation stemmed from witnessing firsthand the transformative power of nature when left undisturbed. It became clear that protecting our water sources is not just a responsibility but a sacred duty. I couldn’t ignore the plight of the Orang Asli communities, deprived of clean drinking water due to human greed and negligence. Their struggle highlighted the interconnectedness between our actions and the well-being of marginalised communities and ecosystems.

The River of Life project, spearheaded by Khazanah’s Think City, served as an inspiration of sorts. Witnessing th transformation of the confluence of the Klang and Gombak rivers in the heart of Kuala Lumpur was a testament to what concerted efforts can achieve. However, it left me yearning for more—a nationwide extension of such initiatives beyond mere picturesque instagramworthy spots.

SC Shekar