Coffee chain partners with NGO to reforest Kinabatangan
A LOCAL coffee chain began its reforestation journey with planting 500 native trees in Kampung Sukau, Kinabatangan, Sabah.
The initiative by Zus Coffee marked a milestone in its larger pledge to plant 5,000 trees in partnership with Animal Projects and Environmental Education (Ape Malaysia).
It is aimed at preserving the natural environment and nurturing a healthier ecosystem for future generations.
The trees were grown from seed and the saplings supplied by the skilled hands of Kampung Sukau villagers.
Their deep knowledge of plant life not only ensured the saplings' quality but also strengthened the community's role in the restoration process.
These saplings were then nurtured in Ape Malaysia's nursery – home to 22 native species – before being carefully prepared for field planting.
Each tree represents more than carbon absorption – it symbolises hope, healing, and the power of collective action.
The first 500 were planted on-site by Ape Malaysia's and Zus' teams.
The 'Kopi to Kinabatangan Canopy' initiative aims to not only restore lost forest corridors but also protect vital biodiversity, empower rural communities and reimagine how brands can contribute meaningfully to real-world climate solutions.
The brand said the restoration effort would not have been possible without the support of over 341,000 Zus Coffee app users who backed the pledge.
With the collective effort, an area that was once a logging site devoid of natural tree cover is now showing signs of recovery.
Orang utan nests and elephant feeding activity have already been spotted in the vicinity – a promising sign that life is returning.
'Sustainability isn't just a buzzword for us, it's a responsibility.
'We know we can't solve the climate crisis alone, but we believe every step counts,' said Zus Coffee chief operating officer Venon Tian.
'This reforestation effort is our way of showing that doing good for the planet can be deeply rooted in who we are as a brand.'
Ape Malaysia project manager Mark Louis Benedict said, 'This reforestation site is an important wildlife habitat area.
'The trees we've planted today will support food chains, restore these once degraded habitats, and gradually rebuild a thriving ecosystem.
'The early signs are very encouraging.'
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The Star
03-08-2025
- The Star
Going APE for the environment
Green recovery: APE Malaysia project manager Mark Louis Benedict (third from left) and Mazrul (sixth from left) together with their team at one of their reforestation project sites along the Kinabatangan River, Sabah. PETALING JAYA: When Animal Projects & Environmental Education (APE Malaysia) was named one of the Star Golden Hearts Award (SGHA) winners, it was more than just a trophy on the shelf. It provided the social enterprise, which carries out reforestation projects along the Kinabatangan River in Sabah, with a better connection to partners, supporters and collaborators. 'Winning the SGHA was a tremendous boost. It gave us national visibility and recognition, which also boosted our team morale. 'It validated the work we have been doing in conservation and community development over the years. 'That sort of encouragement goes a long way in keeping our momentum going,' said APE Malaysia project director Mazrul Mahadzir. He said the award also helped them align their goals more strategically with stakeholders, who now see APE Malaysia as a trusted voice in the field. 'One big milestone has been our success in forming long-term partnerships with businesses. 'This enables us to integrate meaningful sustainability efforts into our operations,' he said. He added that it is very encouraging to see more sectors getting involved. 'We also continue to receive interest and establish collaborations with companies in our reforestation project,' he said. However, Mazrul also said there are bound to be ups and downs involving their projects such as the erratic and unpredictable weather. Since January, one of their project sites has been inundated by the overflowing river due to the monsoon season with field activities being put on hold for almost two months. 'One of our nurseries was destroyed and requires a complete rebuild. 'It's been a tough period and we're still in the recovery phase. 'The focus is on rebuilding the affected nursery and getting back on track,' he added. However, he said the group takes it in their stride, adding that such situations are part and parcel of the work they do. 'These challenges have also pushed us to be more adaptive and resilient. 'We had to revise timelines, reallocate resources and lean on our community and partners more than ever,' he added. Mazrul said the SGHA recognition has also helped the APE Malaysia team to keep their morale high and provide a stronger platform to rally support for the recovery works. 'It's a reminder that conservation is a long-term commitment and setbacks, while difficult, are part of the journey,' he said. To aspiring changemakers, Mazrul said the key is to constantly stay committed even when the path ahead is challenging. 'Change doesn't happen overnight and real impact comes from persistence and collaboration. 'Surround yourself with a supportive team and remain open to learning. 'Most importantly, remember that every effort counts. 'Challenges will come but so will progress,' he added. Last year, APE Malaysia was named as one of the SGHA winners. The SGHA returns for the 11th edition to honour everyday Malaysians whose compassion and selflessness have made a lasting impact on others. With McDonald's Malaysia as the new strategic partner, SGHA is poised to broaden its reach and deepen its impact nationwide. This year also marks the debut of the McDonald's Caring Hearts Award – a special recognition honouring individuals or grassroots groups whose heartfelt acts of kindness have uplifted lives in profound and lasting ways. Since its inception in 2015, SGHA has honoured over 100 individuals and organisations whose efforts have inspired action, transformed lives and strengthened communities nationwide.
The Star
15-07-2025
- The Star
Coffee chain partners with NGO to reforest Kinabatangan
Zus Coffee and Ape Malaysia teams at Kampung Sukau, Kinabatangan, marking the beginning of their collaboration. A LOCAL coffee chain began its reforestation journey with planting 500 native trees in Kampung Sukau, Kinabatangan, Sabah. The initiative by Zus Coffee marked a milestone in its larger pledge to plant 5,000 trees in partnership with Animal Projects and Environmental Education (Ape Malaysia). It is aimed at preserving the natural environment and nurturing a healthier ecosystem for future generations. The trees were grown from seed and the saplings supplied by the skilled hands of Kampung Sukau villagers. Their deep knowledge of plant life not only ensured the saplings' quality but also strengthened the community's role in the restoration process. These saplings were then nurtured in Ape Malaysia's nursery – home to 22 native species – before being carefully prepared for field planting. Each tree represents more than carbon absorption – it symbolises hope, healing, and the power of collective action. The first 500 were planted on-site by Ape Malaysia's and Zus' teams. The 'Kopi to Kinabatangan Canopy' initiative aims to not only restore lost forest corridors but also protect vital biodiversity, empower rural communities and reimagine how brands can contribute meaningfully to real-world climate solutions. The brand said the restoration effort would not have been possible without the support of over 341,000 Zus Coffee app users who backed the pledge. With the collective effort, an area that was once a logging site devoid of natural tree cover is now showing signs of recovery. Orang utan nests and elephant feeding activity have already been spotted in the vicinity – a promising sign that life is returning. 'Sustainability isn't just a buzzword for us, it's a responsibility. 'We know we can't solve the climate crisis alone, but we believe every step counts,' said Zus Coffee chief operating officer Venon Tian. 'This reforestation effort is our way of showing that doing good for the planet can be deeply rooted in who we are as a brand.' Ape Malaysia project manager Mark Louis Benedict said, 'This reforestation site is an important wildlife habitat area. 'The trees we've planted today will support food chains, restore these once degraded habitats, and gradually rebuild a thriving ecosystem. 'The early signs are very encouraging.'
Daily Express
21-05-2025
- Daily Express
ZUS, Ape to plant 5,000 trees
Published on: Wednesday, May 21, 2025 Published on: Wed, May 21, 2025 Text Size: ZUS Coffee and Ape teams at Kg Sukau, marking the beginning of their collaboration. Kuala Lumpur: ZUS Coffee has launched a major reforestation initiative in Sabah's Kinabatangan region by planting 500 native trees in Kampung Sukau, as part of its larger pledge to plant 5,000 trees in collaboration with conservation organisation Animal Projects & Environmental Education (APE Malaysia). The initiative, titled 'Kopi to Kinabatangan Canopy,' marks a significant step in the homegrown coffee chain's commitment to environmental sustainability and community empowerment. The project aims to restore degraded forest corridors, support local biodiversity, and strengthen rural involvement in environmental conservation. ZUS Coffee Chief Operating Officer Venon Tian said the reforestation effort reflects the brand's wider responsibility to the environment. 'Sustainability isn't just a buzzword for us; it's a responsibility. We know we can't solve the climate crisis alone, but we believe every step counts. This reforestation effort is our way of showing that doing good for the planet can be deeply rooted in who we are as a brand,' he said. The saplings comprising 22 native tree species which were cultivated from seeds and young plants by the residents of Kg Sukau, whose traditional knowledge played a vital role in the preparation and quality of the trees. Advertisement APE Malaysia's nursery provided a nurturing environment for the saplings before they were transferred to the planting site. APE Malaysia Project Manager Mark Louis Benedict said the planting site was once a degraded logging area. However, it is now showing signs of ecological recovery. 'This reforestation site is an important wildlife habitat area. The trees we've planted today will support food chains, restore these once degraded habitats and gradually rebuild a thriving ecosystem. The early signs are very encouraging,' he said. Wildlife activity including orangutan nests and signs of elephant feeding has already been recorded near the site. This offers hope that the area is on the path to regeneration. The project has received overwhelming support from the ZUS community, with over 341,000 app users backing the pledge to support reforestation efforts. ZUS expressed its gratitude to APE Malaysia, the Kg Sukau villagers and all volunteers and users involved, stating that the initiative is a meaningful step in healing the environment and protecting biodiversity for future generations. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
