Muzakkir is one of our core members in FiTree. He actively organizes and participates in multiple events. He also recently published a book called ‘From Walden to Woodlands’. It is an interfaith anthology of poetry and prose about nature in Singapore.
Qn: What motivates you to be part of FiTree?
I am personally driven by excitement and there have been so many instances of jaw-dropping, silence inducing, amazingly amazing moments while being in nature especially the part when you discover new interconnections between one thing and another. Like the peculiar story on why Fish Tail Palms are named like that or even how words and poetry can ignite that sense of wonder/ reverence for nature in you. I think there are so many gems for us to take just by listening or watching attentively how the world naturally works — it’s like a Divine lesson plan. That was when I realised maybe the ‘Green’ thing is for me and I needed to channel this enthusiasm and energy somewhere. I guess FiTree offers that natural platform for like-minded muslims to kinda organically organize themselves to start their own little initiatives or be part of the greater movement of greening the community.
Simple answer: that there is a need, and I am available.
Qn: Can you explain more about your book?
Remember what i said about working on our own little initiatives and being amazed how things are interconnected?
Well, From Walden to Woodlands (FWTW) was one of them. FWTW is an anthology of nature poems. But what it really is about to me is the exploration of that intersection between faith, language and the environment.
It began as a side project with a fellow interfaith enthusiast/poetry lover/educator, Wai Kit. We met at an interfaith camp and decided afterwards to do this along with Seri, Wan and Yuen Kei (all nus schoolmates).
The project spanned 9 months and finally it was launched at Harmony Centre@An-Nahdhah Mosque to a full-house crowd! Alhamdulillah! I think this project is a significant step forward in the interfaith scene, environmentalist movement and the literary community. Mainly because of the diverse community it has been able to unite together for a shared good cause. It has sparked conversations in various circles and we hope it will ultimately inspire more interesting interfaith projects and reignite the desire in the community to fight for the common good.
FiTree is a 100% non-profit volunteer group. We are always seeking for people who are passionate to spread awareness that being Green is part of our Deen. If you are interested to join us in our quest, contact us at greenfitree@gmail.com.
To know more or purchase From Walden to Woodlands (FWTW), click here.
“And it is He (God) who has made you successors (khala’ifa) upon the earth and has raised some of you above others in degrees [of rank] that He may try you through what He has given you. Indeed, your Lord is swift in penalty; but indeed, He is Forgiving and Merciful.” (Qur’an 6:165).
greenfitree.org 