Kuala lumpur: The presence of oil palm plantations in Malaysia does not threaten orangutan populations, as the species has shown a clear ability to adapt and survive within plantation landscapes, according to Malaysian Palm Oil Green Conservation Foundation (MPOGCF) general manager Hairulazim Mahmud. He noted that claims of oil palm cultivation destroying orangutan habitats have long been amplified by international non-governmental organisations through anti-palm oil campaigns in Europe, negatively affecting the local and global palm oil industry.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Hairulazim stated that scientific studies reveal a different reality, indicating that orangutans in Malaysia not only use plantations as movement corridors but also build nests and forage for food in these areas. Research by international NGOs such as HUTAN shows that orangutans in Sabah have begun assimilating into oil palm landscapes, supported by drone and helicopter surveys detecting orangutan nests woven from palm fronds within plantations.
Hairulazim highlighted similar patterns with elephants, which often enter plantations during replanting seasons as palm shoots are a favoured food source. He explained that such encounters are usually managed with monitoring by plantation operators, and conflicts are addressed through safe and ethical relocation methods guided by authorities, including MPOGCF.
The foundation collaborates with the London-based Earthworm Foundation to train smallholders in Johor to use drones to track elephant movements and mitigate conflicts. Hairulazim emphasized that biodiversity conservation and agricultural activities can coexist if properly managed.
MPOGCF has initiated several conservation projects, including the Lower Kawag Orangutan Habitat Restoration Project in Sabah, which involves restoring 2,500 hectares of forest and engaging local communities. Other efforts include the Central Forest Spine initiative in Kelantan, aimed at reconnecting fragmented forests, as well as wildlife corridors and early warning systems for smallholders.
Hairulazim acknowledged past deforestation due to oil palm expansion but stressed that such practices are no longer permitted. Malaysia maintains over 50 per cent forest cover, and the industry is governed by more than 60 laws and regulations, including mandatory compliance with the Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) certification. This certification ensures production does not involve deforestation or threaten wildlife.
He noted that MSPO certification, required for all smallholders, estates, and mills exporting palm oil, is recognized by the European Union as it aligns with the European Union Deforestation Regulation. The palm oil industry contributes significantly to Malaysia's economy, generating over RM100 billion in annual exports.
MPOGCF participates in numerous local and international exhibitions and conferences, including the International Union for Conservation of Nature Congress, to share research findings and engage global stakeholders. Hairulazim announced plans to apply for membership in the IUCN, aiming to share research stories and promote biodiversity-friendly practices in the palm oil industry. Additionally, MPOGCF intends to recognize plantations demonstrating best practices in biodiversity management and sustainable operations.