Pansar leads reforestation effort with 1,000 trees planted in Sabah
SIBU (June 5): Pansar Berhad, in collaboration with Liberty General Insurance Berhad and the Sabah Forestry Development Authority (Safoda), recently carried out a tree-planting initiative at the Safoda Eco Forest Park in Kinarut, Sabah.
Held under the theme 'Rooting for a Greener Future', the programme brought together approximately 100 staff members from Pansar's headquarters and regional branches in Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan, Lahad Datu, and Tawau.
A total of 1,000 trees, including native timber species such as 'Selangan Batu' and 'Talisai Paya' (Terminalia procera), were planted in a designated reforestation zone managed by Safoda.
Pansar Berhad chief operating officer David Tai, in his welcoming remarks, described the initiative as a vital step forward toward ecosystem restoration and environmental education.
He emphasised the importance of public-private collaboration in addressing climate challenges and praised Liberty Insurance's support in putting community and environmental well-being at the forefront.
'This initiative reinforces the value of restoring ecosystems, raising environmental awareness, and reaffirming the importance of collaboration in safeguarding our shared future,' he said.
He also acknowledged Safoda's key role in supporting sustainability and forest conservation efforts, and highlighted Pansar's pride in contributing to the cause.
Tai elaborated on the environmental benefits of tree planting, noting each mature tree absorbs around 22kg of carbon dioxide (CO2) annually and removes about 1.7kg of air pollutants.
'The trees also help intercept 3,800 to 7,600 litres of rainwater per year, effectively reducing runoff and preventing flooding,' he said.
He added that trees can lower surrounding air temperatures by up to 5 degrees CeIsius and surface temperatures by as much as 14 degrees Celsius, while providing essential habitats for birds, insects, mammals, fungi, and other organisms.
The planting of 1,000 trees is estimated to contribute to 22 tonnes of CO2 absorption and 1.7 tonnes of pollutant removal annually, while improving soil resilience and ecological balance.
The initiative, he noted, supports multiple United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) including SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 15 (Life on Land), SDG 11(Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 4 (Quality Education).
In addition to environmental impact, the programme also aimed to raise public awareness on sustainable urban development, foster lifelong learning, and engage communities in environmental stewardship.
'By mobilising staff across regions and working closely with government and corporate partners, Pansar demonstrates how collective action can lead to measurable progress toward a more resilient and sustainable future,' said Tai.
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