NGO Pertubuhan Pelindung Khazanah Alam Malaysia (Peka) today insisted that its efforts in preserving the forests in Malaysia is done for the benefit of the country and not a criminal act.

“Whatever we are doing is not criminal but only for the country and the future generations,” said Peka president Shariffa Sabrina Syed Akil at a press conference.

Referring to her arrest by Johor police in December last year, she said it has proven that her journey in fighting for the environment will only get tougher.

“My personal assistant Yatie (Norhayati Shahrom) and I were arrested, handcuffed and thrown into lock-up just for exposing the last permanent forest reserve in Mersing, Johor that was cleared,” she added.

Shariffa said those who are trying to improve the state of affairs in the country are seen as enemies, while other countries are trying to reduce carbon emissions.

In an effort to raise awareness on the environment, today she launched the organisation’s fifth installation of the "Save Our Rainforest Race", which will be held on March 25 in Penang.

The organisation aims to gather 1,000 participants across the country who are aged 16 and above and registration will close right before the race as there is no set deadline.

Shariffa (photo) also encouraged the public to provide sponsorship so that more environmental conservation activities and events can be held as the organisation does not receive any government funding.

“We hope more companies and individuals will be able to make a contribution for our environmental conservation efforts because we have not even reached our target for this event,” said Shariffa.

The race encompasses a forest trail in the Penang National Park, Penang Forest Park and a coastal path that is a turtle sanctuary.

The organisation will also be carrying out the replantation of Merambong trees at the coastal area to attract turtles to breed there.

“We are replanting 500 Merambong trees to encourage more turtles to lay eggs at the beach,” said Shariffa.

Inspired by artiste Zainal Abidin’s well known environmental song "Hijau", the organisation also launched its official song "Khazanah Alam", which was written and composed by former Akademi Fantasia participant Bob AF, and performed by the Cempaka School students.

Urging authorities to take action, Shariffa said the organisation will not give up in preserving the forests despite facing challenges like her arrest.

“We will not rest until Malaysia reaches a state of green economy and sustainability,” she said.