On July 20, 2008, SGM invited Dr Joean Oon, from the Naturopathic Family Care Centre in Penang to deliver a lecture entitled “Earth Saving Through Garbage Enzyme” at SGM Culture Centre, Cheras.

During her lecture, Dr Oon explained that her desire to do something to make the environment a safer place for her children, drove her to learn about producing garbage enzyme from Dr Rosukon Poompanvong, an alternative medicine practitioner in Thailand. Since then, Dr Oon has spoken to thousands of people in several countries about “garbage enzymes.”

Dr Oon advocates for households to reduce the amount kitchen waste by converting it into useful “garbage enzyme” at home. According to her, by doing so, every household can help to protect the ozone layer of our planet, as the production of garbage enzyme generates what is called ground-level ozone which helps to maintain the Earth’s temperature by releasing heat trapped by the heavy metal in the clouds. This would have anti-global warming effect if done on a large scale.

The enzymes are ready for use after three months of fermentation. They are a safe alternative to chemical household cleaners which are harmful and toxic to our environment. The enzyme is said to be very effective on foul odours, mould and grime. It can also be used as pesticides, insecticides and fertilisers.

Dr Oon’s lecture prompted the audience to reflect on the seriousness of the environmental crisis and how it would affect humanity and the future generations. But more importantly, she showed the audience a practical way to do something about the problem, creating a sense of hope and sending home the message that each person can make a difference.