by Ravi VS
“Apalah gunanya kematangan fikiran, bila di jiwa kita masih lagi muda, dan mentah”. (What is the use of maturity of mind, when we are still young in our soul, and raw) –excerpt from “Hijau”
“Hijau”, more than a melodic masterpiece, is a profound reminder of our responsibility towards our planet. In its lyrics lies a call to action for sustainability, echoing the very essence of our gathering.
It was a moment that transcended mere performance; it was a reflection of our collective commitment to environmental stewardship.
As I listened, it struck me how relevant the message of ‘Hijau’ remains, years after its release in 1991.
In our journey towards sustainable practices, it’s vital to remember that change isn’t just institutional; it’s personal, it’s emotional.
Music like ‘Hijau’ connects us deeply to these truths, serving as a powerful reminder of the world we strive to protect and the future we hope to shape. Let’s carry this message forward, not just in policy and practice, but in our hearts.
Let’s be reminded that in the grand symphony of life, each of us plays a crucial part in nurturing and preserving our beautiful planet.
Recently, I had the pleasure of attending the ESG Association Appreciation and Annual Dinner, an event that brought together individuals passionate about environmental, social, and governance issues.
Among the many highlights of the evening was a live performance of Zainal Abidin’s song “Hijau.”
This rendition was not just a musical interlude but a poignant reminder of the song’s enduring relevance in our continuous journey towards sustainability and ecological responsibility.
The lyrics of “Hijau”, echoing through the hall, served as a powerful call to action, reminding us of the crucial role we play in shaping our planet’s future.
The lyrics of “Hijau” resonate profoundly even today, reflecting the ongoing struggles and challenges we face in our relationship with the environment.
As the world grapples with issues like climate change, pollution, and unsustainable practices, the song’s call for awareness and action remains as relevant as ever.
“In every note of ‘Hijau”, we hear the earth’s plea; a reminder that our actions today write the legacy of tomorrow.”
Zainal Abidin’s “Hijau” is not just a song; it’s a poignant commentary on our times released in 1991. The lyrics, “Apalah gunanya kematangan fikiran, bila di jiwa kita masih lagi muda dan mentah” encapsulate a profound truth about our collective approach to environmental issues.
Despite advancements in science and technology, there remains a certain naivety and immaturity in how we deal with our planet’s health.
“The melody of ‘Hijau’ resonates beyond music; it’s a harmonious call for a world where green is not just a color, but a way of life.”
As COP28 has just concluded, the same issues that “Hijau” highlighted – corruption, oppression, self-obsession, pollution, and depression – are still prevalent. While there have been advancements and efforts to combat climate change and environmental degradation, many of these initiatives seem like repackaged solutions rather than innovative steps forward.
To truly make a difference, we need to adopt a forward-thinking approach. This means not only addressing current problems but anticipating future challenges and working backwards to implement preventive measures. It’s about creating sustainable and regenerative solutions that do more than just mitigate damage – they actively improve and restore.
“In the rhythm of ‘Hijau’, there’s a deeper beat, the heartbeat of our planet, calling us to harmonize our actions with nature’s needs.”
Despite the challenges, there are glimmers of hope. For instance, renewable energy sources like solar and wind power have seen significant growth, becoming more accessible and affordable. Innovations in waste management, such as converting waste to energy, are gaining traction. These examples show that progress is possible when we commit to forward-thinking and sustainable practices.
As “Hijau” reminds us, our actions today shape the world of tomorrow. COP28 presents an opportunity to shift our focus from short-term fixes to long-term, sustainable solutions.
We must heed the call of songs like “Hijau” and work collectively towards a future where our relationship with the planet is defined not by exploitation and harm, but by stewardship and regeneration.
The legacy we leave behind depends on the choices we make today. Let’s choose a path that leads to a healthier, more sustainable world for generations to come.
Zainal Abidin’s “Hijau” is not just a song but a testament to the power of music in igniting a passion for environmental change.
Ravi VS is Founder, CEO & Chief Foresight Officer – Transforming Organisations & People Through Foresight-Driven Insights