Abang Arabi Abang Aimran, General Manager SFC, stated, “This collaboration with YSD marks a significant step forward in biodiversity conservation of Sarawak. The Sarawak Red Langur,
recognised by the International Primatology Society as one of the 25 most endangered primates on the planet, has recently shown promising signs of a potential population outside of its known habitat in Maludam. A recent sighting in Jemoreng, a significant discovery, emphasises the critical nature of joint conservation efforts. We hope to continue our work with YSD on the conservation of the Sarawak Red Langur and ascertain if a viable population of this species exists in this new area that requires protection.”

Alongside the Red Langur initiative, YSD collaborates with SD Guthrie Berhad on the SD Guthrie YSD Plant-A-Tree project at Damai Estate in Bintulu, Sarawak. This initiative which began in 2023, is currently at the land preparation stage and spans 95 hectares, to be completed in stages. The project aims to increase the biodiversity values in their plantation by utilising unplantable areas for productive ecosystem services, engaging interested stakeholders in conservation efforts, and exploring and securing climate mitigation opportunities through nature-based solutions initiatives. Additionally, the Conservation and Protection of Malaysian Hornbills project by Gaia which focuses on environmental education and raising awareness about hornbills across Malaysia, includes the planting of food sources for these birds at Damai Estate.

Rashyid Redza Anwarudin, Chief Sustainability Officer, SD Guthrie Berhad, said, “SD Guthrie is fully committed to contributing towards environmental conservation of Sarawak. Our engagement in projects such as the Plant-A-Tree initiative signifies our resolve to protect endemic and endangered species and their habitats. We are prepared to intensify our efforts, working alongside regional partners and communities, to ensure the sustainability of Sarawak’s unique biodiversity, much like the success we achieved in Northern Ulu Segama, now classified as Class 1 Forest Reserve known as Bukit Piton Forest Reserve.”

Dr Yatela Zainal Abidin, CEO YSD, emphasised, “As the philanthropic arm of SD Guthrie, YSD is excited to expand our conservation efforts into Sarawak, home to the largest forest cover in Malaysia and a vital part of our national heritage. These projects help protect critical species and support local communities through sustainable development and environmental education. In addition to the conservation of the Sarawak Red Langur, SFC’s involvement also extends into YSD’s collaboration with the Marine Research Foundation to protect marine biodiversity through efforts like bycatch reduction and marine protected area enhancement, targeting turtles, sharks and rays in Sarawak.”

These new conservation initiatives in Sarawak extend YSD’s existing footprint in the region, building on a legacy of support across its five pillars of Education, Environment, Community & Health, Sports, and Arts & Culture. In addition to safeguarding natural heritage, YSD supports community health through initiatives like the Teratak Kasih Tok Nan Miri project launched by YB Dato’ Lukanisman bin Awang Sauni, Deputy Minister of Health, enhancing HIV treatment in a tripartite collaboration with the Ministry of Health and the Malaysian AIDS Foundation. In education, YSD continues to advance TVET education, and had already provided scholarships to nearly 200 students in collaboration with Sime Darby Industrial Academy Miri, Jabatan Pendidikan Politeknik dan Kolej Komuniti, and The Welding Institute, bolstering local workforce skills and employability. YSD’s commitment extends to arts and sports, enriching community engagement and youth development. Initiatives such as the Midnight Football with Global Peace Foundation Malaysia target at-risk youth in Bau, while the Kelab YSD-Kakiseni Junior and Picolab Kuching’s The Alleyway aim to foster a deeper appreciation for the arts.