Promoting the Culture of ‘Jurnal Alam’ (Nature Journaling) Among the Younger Generation

By, Khalilah Zakariya

GOMBAK, 3 March 2025: The growing awareness of environmental conservation has inspired many to organise impactful and creative educational programs. One recent initiative is the Ritma Alam Explorers workshop, organised by the Department of Landscape Architecture, Kulliyyah of Architecture and Environmental Design (KAED), International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM), in collaboration with Adab Youth Garage and Perbadanan Perpustakaan Awam Selangor, supported by the Wild Wonder Foundation Micro Grant.

The program, held recently at Pustaka Raja Tun Uda, Shah Alam, on 28 January 2025, and the PPAS Daerah Hulu Langat, Bangi, Malaysia on 13 February 2025, successfully gathered 30 school students and 30 youth workers. Participants were introduced to the art of ‘jurnal alam’, or nature journaling, a creative method of documenting observations of flora, fauna, and other natural elements through drawings and written notes.

Experiencing Nature through Art

In the workshop, participants were not only taught to draw and annotate but were also encouraged to appreciate nature more deeply. Exploration activities in the green areas surrounding the libraries provided opportunities for participants to identify and document various plant species, animals, and landscape features.

The participants shared valuable experiences gained from the Ritma Alam Explorers workshop. One participant noted that they had learned fundamental skills such as drawing, colouring, and observing natural objects more attentively. What fascinated the participants most was the chance to document their observations in an organised manner through nature journaling.

Another participant mentioned that the workshop helped them analyse and understand the elements required for a nature journal. They also became more aware of the sounds and diversity of plants around them—something they had previously overlooked. “Now I realise that I need to be more grateful for the beauty of nature,” shared one participant.

The workshop also helped participants feel more connected to their surroundings, instilling a profound appreciation for the environment. One participant emphasised, “By creating a nature journal, I feel closer to nature and more appreciative of its beauty.”

The nature journaling approach encouraged participants to reflect on and study the wonders of Allah’s creation. Participants cultivated a deeper awareness of the Creator’s greatness and power by observing the beauty, uniqueness, and intricate details of creations such as leaf patterns, flower colours, and the features of animals like birds and insects.

This approach heightened their sensitivity to the environment and nurtured a sense of gratitude and responsibility toward environmental stewardship.

Fostering Love for Sustainability

Nature journaling is also an effective method to engage students in sustainability issues. Additionally, the activity allowed participants to spend time away from gadgets, encouraging them to connect directly with nature.

Held during the final week of the school holiday, the program gave participants a meaningful way to start the new year with a refreshed spirit. The activity not only motivated them but also introduced the possibility of making environmental observation a new hobby. This helps instil positive habits, such as being more attentive to their surroundings and thinking critically about the relationship between humans, nature, and the Creator.

Future Aspirations

Programs like Ritma Alam Explorers benefit participants and offer opportunities for more individuals to explore the world of nature journaling. It is hoped that the workshop can be conducted in more locations and attract participants from various segments of society, regardless of age.

Through the art of nature journaling, anyone can document their observations of the beauty of nature while cultivating a sense of responsibility toward environmental conservation. Continuous efforts like these can foster a culture of environmental appreciation and inspire more people to view nature as a source of inspiration and tranquility, ultimately paving the way toward a more sustainable and harmonious community.

Visit our Instagram for updates: https://www.instagram.com/ritmaalamexplorers

(These are views of Assoc. Prof. LAr. Dr. Khalilah Zakariya affiliated with the Department of Landscape Architecture, Kulliyyah of Architecture and Environmental Design, International Islamic University Malaysia which do not represent IIUM Today’s.)***