Nestlé Malaysia has achieved a significant milestone with the successful completion of Project RELeaf, a reforestation initiative that has planted three million trees nationwide. This effort is part of the company’s commitment to sustainability and environmental conservation. Project RELeaf is the largest private-sector reforestation effort in Malaysia, and it has not only restored degraded landscapes but also empowered local communities and contributed to the country’s climate resilience.
The project was launched in 2020 and has been implemented in collaboration with various government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and plantation partners. The initiative has focused on restoring riparian zones and wildlife corridors, which has helped to revive ecosystems and create safe habitats for endangered species such as orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and the Malayan tiger.
In addition to its environmental benefits, Project RELeaf has also had a positive impact on local communities. Over 90 communities have participated in indigenous seedling production, and 120 communities have engaged directly in planting activities. This has generated supplemental income and fostered environmental stewardship, turning local communities into active guardians of Malaysia’s forests.
Nestlé Malaysia’s CEO, Juan Aranols, has stated that Project RELeaf is a cornerstone of the company’s ESG journey and part of its global Forest Positive strategy. The company is committed to continuing its reforestation efforts and has launched Project RELeaf2030, which aims to plant an additional three million trees over the next five years.
The initiative has also focused on community empowerment, with dedicated seedling cultivators like En. Hasidin Bin Ahmit, who has seen the positive impact of the project on his community. He stated that being part of Project RELeaf has transformed his community’s future, providing a sustainable source of income and improving their livelihoods.
As Project RELeaf enters its next phase, Nestlé is deepening its commitment to ecosystem restoration and sustainable agriculture. The company plans to champion agroforestry as part of regenerative agriculture, encouraging smallholders and plantations to integrate native forest species and fruit trees into cocoa and coffee farms. This approach aims to enhance biodiversity, provide natural shade for crops, and create additional income streams for farmers.
Overall, Project RELeaf is a testament to the positive impact that businesses can have on the environment and local communities. It demonstrates that corporate action can shape a greener, more sustainable future for generations to come. With its commitment to reforestation, community empowerment, and sustainable agriculture, Nestlé Malaysia is setting a new benchmark for corporate social responsibility and environmental stewardship.