This post is written for the “Save the Ocean” group-writing project.

It is very important to have a minister who is concerned about the environment in the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment (in Malaysia) instead of somebody who holds the post because he was offered it, or somebody who is into it because it pays better. Similarly, in any environment-related NGOs such as the Malaysian Nature Society or the WWF, we need leaders who are proactive and who will protect the environment at all costs.

Here’s how you can ensure that the person you vote for will protect the environment (and the coasts):

• Learn who your representatives are (get to know them) and where they stand on key environment/ocean protection measures.
• Write or call your elected officials to tell them that your support will depend on their taking strong conservation position on issues relating to the environment.
• Attend an ocean conservation meeting or other gathering aimed at building an effective ocean constituency.

January 2008 is “Save the Ocean” month here at The Giving Hands. Click here for more information on how you too, can save our oceans, and remember to subscribe to The Giving Hands for your daily updates!