By JADE CHAN

newsdesk@thestar.com.my
Photos by Low Lay Phon

After participating in the Cathay Pacific International Wilderness Experience (CXIWE) last year, Ng Pei Ying and Ong Szu Mei have become changed persons.

They are more aware of the values of conserving and preserving the environment. Besides broadening their knowledge of the world, Ng and Ong also had the opportunity to meet like-minded youths and learn from each other's cultures.

Two lucky teenagers will get their chance to participate in the wilderness experience this year as Cathay Pacific Airways Limited has launched the 12th chapter of CXIWE project yesterday.

Two Malaysian youths aged between 16 and 18 years old will be selected for this project, which will take place from Aug 22 to 30 at Botshabelo, South Africa.

The Malaysian ambassadors will be flown to the South African wilderness to join more than 50 youths from South Africa and Asia Pacific Rim countries for the nine-day ecological project.

Ng (left) and Ong (right) at the launch of the 12th Cathay Pacific International Wilderness Experience. With them are (from left) Zoo Negara director Dr Mohamad Ngah, Nkomo and Liew.

They will experience nature through hikes and wildlife observation, and share each other's cultural heritage through wedding role-plays, group discussions, as well as introduce their traditional songs and dances.

Cathay Pacific country manager for Malaysia and Brunei Angela Liew said since CXIWE's inception 12 years ago, this ecological awareness project has exposed more than 400 youths to the wonders of Mother Nature and instilled the importance of conserving the environment for future generation.

The top 30 entries sent will be shortlisted to participate in the Malaysian Wilderness Workshop at Zoo Negara.

"During the one-day workshop, participants will be challenged physical and mentally. They will be tested on their surroundings and the environment by sharpening their observation skills and having awareness on wildlife and nature," said Liew.

South African High Commissioner to Malaysia Dr. Abraham Nkomo said, "The project provides a platform for youths from diverse backgrounds to gather and learn about nature, and the impact man has on the delicate environment. It is hoped that the excursion back to man's roots will enhance youth's self-awareness and personal values."

Participants will be selected based on their environmental awareness, leadership skills, teamwork and interaction.

Interested participants can log on to
www.cathaypacific.com.my to download the application form. Submission deadline is May 31.

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