In September 2024, a group of 34 enthusiastic participants—17 children and 17 parents— from Nature Classroom, an NGO based in Penang, Malaysia, embarked on a unique learning experience at the Institute of Tropical Biology and Conservation (ITBC), Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS). This enriching event was led by Dr. Li Yuen from the Tropical Ecology and Entomology lab (TEE Lab), Asian School of the Environment at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore.
The children and parents were introduced to the often overlooked but incredibly important world of dung beetles. Li Yuen shared fun facts about these fascinating insects, and explained how dung beetles play a crucial role in maintaining ecosystem health. One of the key points she emphasized was the importance of dung beetles as bioindicators. Dung beetles can serve as early warning systems, providing important insights into the health of the forest. Their presence or absence across different habitats can reveal much about the environmental conditions, including biodiversity and soil health.
Presentation on the roles of insect in tropical rainforest by Li Yuen. Photos 2024 Nature Classroom.
In addition, Dr. Li Yuen also showcased the variety of sizes and patterns of dung beetle specimens. The participants were fascinated with the diversity of dung beetle in Borneo, making this a truly memorable experience. Adding to the excitement, she prepared a fun quiz for the children, offering attractive prizes to the winners. The interactive nature of the session kept the young participants engaged and eager to learn more. The day left a lasting impression on both children and parents, and provided them with a deeper understanding and appreciation for these often-overlooked insects and their essential roles in maintaining healthy ecosystems.
Top left & right: DIY drawing on lantern during the workshop; bottom: booth with TEE Lab's postcards and stickers for the participants.
For more information on this event, check out this video.
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