A nationwide survey must be conducted to find out if the Malaysian public is losing touch with the outdoors.
An initiative to produce a high-profile report and academic studies will show a growing disconnection between people and the natural environment.
Are children play outside less than once a week and the distance children stray from their homes has decreased. In this age of computers and home theatres most teenagers do not know what the outdoor life is all about. Also, one third of all under 16s avoids playing outdoors because of the heat.
At the same time a growing body of evidence shows that taking part in simple outdoor activities, such as going for a short walk every day, helps to improve people's quality of life, health and well being.
For generations we worked the land, marvelled at its beauty through art and literature and explored our country paths and mountains. For some, these pleasures remain one of the great joys of life.
But we can't ignore the fact that, whether through pressures of time or physical access, as a nation we seem to be increasingly disconnected from the fabric of the country.
It is hoped this project will help foster local and national partnerships that can help deliver on the huge opportunities offered by the Mlaysian outdoors as we look to its ongoing protection and promotion.
The project should also aim to explore what changes can be introduced by the Government to present opportunities for 'Big Society' partnerships between NGOs and local community groups to help provide greater access to local green space.
With more than 250,000 hectares of countryside and 1010 kilometers of coastline across Peninsular Malaysia there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors.
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