Aramco Malaysia Achieves Milestone with 9,000 Mangrove Trees Planted in Pulau Tanjung Surat

The successful completion of the Community-Based Mangrove Conservation and Sustainable Livelihood Programme in Pulau Tanjung Surat, Johor on 12 October 2024, marks a significant milestone in sustainable mangrove ecosystem management. This three-year initiative, implemented by Global Environment Centre (GEC) and supported by Aramco Malaysia, has demonstrated the power of community-led conservation efforts in achieving both environmental protection and social development goals. The primary objectives were achieved through strategic partnerships among government agencies, corporations, and local communities.

Sahabat Hutan Bakau Pulau Tanjung Surat served as a key local partner, empowered to act as stewards and local champions for this project. Their grassroots involvement ensured the programme's deep integration with community needs and priorities, while building local capacity for long-term environmental management.

This programme also established and maintained a mangrove nursery capable of producing 3,000 saplings annually, leading to the successful planting of 9,000 Rhizophora mucronata trees over three years, supported by 561 dedicated volunteers. These efforts have also indirectly created sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities, fostering both environmental and economic resilience.

“This programme represents a model of successful community-based environmental stewardship," says Mr. Faizal Parish, Director of Global Environment Centre. "The consistent achievement of our planting targets, with an 85% survival rate, coupled with strong community engagement, demonstrates that local communities can be effective guardians of their natural resources while benefiting economically from conservation efforts. This initiative has significantly contributed to multiple SDGs, including poverty reduction, gender equality, decent jobs for locals, climate action, marine ecosystem protection and private-public partnerships, showcasing how environmental conservation can drive sustainable development."

The programme's success has drawn attention to the effectiveness of community-based approach in environmental conservation. Mr. Ayman M. Hoho, Managing Director of Aramco Malaysia, notes, "The results of this programme align perfectly with Aramco's commitment to environmental sustainability and community development. The combination of ecological restoration and community empowerment demonstrates the long-term value of corporate environmental initiatives. We’re proud to support initiatives that not only protect vital ecosystems but also empower local communities to become environmental stewards for generations to come.”