Report: Introduction to Fungi (CAKE15)
Report by: HY Leong, Jamie, Chee Eer, Trudy, Syazwan & Beverly
For the first time, the Mycology Special Interest Group (SIG) joined the MNS Selangor Branch’s Climate Action Kids Engagement (CAKE) field trip, bringing families and young nature enthusiasts to Taman Rimba Bukit Kerinchi on Saturday, 4 October 2025, from 9.00 am to 12.30 pm. Designed for children aged 7–12 years and their families, the programme offered a hands-on introduction to the fascinating—and often overlooked—world of fungi.
Although the activity was open to non-members, five MNS member families registered by the stated deadline. Due to advance field trip preparations, additional parents who expressed interest after the deadline could not be accommodated. In total, 10 participants—four children and six parents—took part in the field trip.
Participants were divided into four mentor-led groups, each focusing on a different type of fungi: Boletes (led by Loon), Polypores (led by Luca), Gilled Mushrooms (led by Alexia), and Exotic Fungi (led by Jacqueline).
The morning began with a sharing session at one of the park shelters, where participants learned about fungi, their vital roles in forest ecosystems, the impacts of climate change, and the importance of ethical collection practices. Chee Eer shared, “The mentors were patient, passionate and shared valuable insights. We learned how fungi play an important role in the earth’s carbon cycle, with mycelium networks helping to store carbon in soil and support tree growth.” Syazwan added, “understanding their roles in ecosystems is worthwhile to explore.”
To kick-start the adventure, each participant received a fungi starter kit for their forest exploration. Armed with this knowledge—and a fun competitive element—families set off with their mentors along the forest paths. Jamie noted, “The supplies given - notebook and storage box - were very useful to write and store specimens. Adding an element of healthy competition between groups kept us sharp and on the lookout.”
Along the trails, mentors helped identify fungi and highlighted key features to observe. When sufficient specimens were found, samples were collected for closer examination. Alexia Ng shared her purpose as a mentor: “to spread awareness and information about fungi,” while mycologist Luca Pilia added, “I enjoyed witnessing people's interest in fungi.” Jacqueline reflected on a child in her group who was keenly making his own observations: “During mushroom foray for kids, he drew all the mushrooms found in his little diary book. This is very meaningful experience for kids."
Beverly also shared her perspective: “I truly enjoyed the trip, and felt I learnt so much about fungi from the passionate mentors - both the professional (mycologist) and enthusiasts were so knowledgeable and generous and clear. Also it was wonderful to discover Taman Bukit Kerinchi. I just wish my son could have joined after all.”
Later, the groups reconvened at a shelter to share and compare their discoveries, prompting further reflection. Chee Eer remarked, “It was fascinating to see the beauty and variety of fungi — a reminder that there’s so much life and balance beneath our feet.” Participants also offered feedback, with Beverly noting, “I did feel that the foray was a bit long for younger kids - by the time we got to the recap they all seemed a bit exhausted.”
The field trip concluded with an interactive quiz led by Loon, who selected specimens from the collection and challenged the children to identify the fungal group each belonged to. Points were tallied, and all the children received a quiz reward for their efforts.
Reflecting on the overall experience, Jamie said, “It was time well spent outdoors learning about fungi. A well planned activity from beginning to the end, with a group of enthusiastic, energetic, passionate and knowledgeable team from Mycology SIG. A good mix of theory and practical exercise.” Trudy added, “Had a great time learning about fungi, types and how to find (them). Looking for fungi was so fun and I know that our eyes now are trained to find mushrooms! This has changed how we will enjoy nature as we now appreciate mushrooms much more. I hope to do it again soon.” Jamie echoed this sentiment, concluding, “Wonderful opportunity for families to learn about nature and bond together. I recommend this to those who are keen to learn about fungi.”
Note: Some phrasing was enhanced with assistance from Quill (ChatGPT, OpenAI).
Additional reading: A Malaysian Guide to Responsible and Sustainable Mushroom Collecting: link
