TAKE A STRIDE TO THE GREEN SIDE

The Star

18 hours ago

WHEN one thinks of palm oil, what comes to mind? For many, the image conjured is often one of environmental destruction –deforestation, habitat loss, and climate change.
While it is a common perception, there lies a story less told which is worth hearing – one that is of sustainable palm oil production which balances environmental stewardship with economic growth.
The Malaysian Palm Oil Green Conservation Foundation (MPOGCF) is spearheading this narrative through an innovative campaign called Jelajah Sawit Hijau, a roadshow blending science, sustainability and entertainment to engage Malaysians from all walks of life.
A vision of harmony
As a conservationist who deeply believes in the harmony between nature and responsible industry, MPOGCF general manager Hairulazim Mahmud explains the inspiration behind Jelajah Sawit Hijau.
'This event was inspired by the urgent need to showcase how palm oil, when produced sustainably, can benefit both the environment and the economy.'
Hairulazim says responsibly grown palm oil can protect wildlife, preserve forests, and sustain livelihoods alongside economic growth.
Hairulazim notes that rather than viewing conservation and palm oil production as opposing forces, Jelajah Sawit Hijau embraces the concept of 'green plantations' – plantations that nurture biodiversity, protect ecosystems, and foster community well-being.
He also shares that the purpose of this initiative is twofold, saying: 'It aims to correct widespread misconceptions, highlight biodiversity conservation efforts within palm landscapes and promote the concept of green plantations to the public.
'It also aims to show that sustainable palm oil is not just a commercial commodity but a national asset that supports Malaysia's economy while promoting environmental integrity.'
Through this, MPOGCF hopes to strengthen public support for the sector and spotlight their ongoing conservation projects and partnerships.
(From left) MPOGCF conservation sustainability executive Nur Fatin Amirah Mohd showing the camera trap to Mavis Ooi, 7, and Migina Ooi, 5, at the Jelajah Sawit Hijau first Jelajah Sawit Hijau roadshow at the Aman Central Mall in Alor Setar. — LIM BENG TATT/The Star
Enjoyable edutainment
Talking about conservation and sustainability can sometimes feel overwhelming or complicated. That's why Jelajah Sawit Hijau uses a lively mix of learning and play – with celebrity guests, interactive exhibits, games, scientific insights and live radio broadcasts – to make these important topics engaging, memorable, and easy to understand.
'We want to create a platform where learning is fun, messages are memorable and communities feel welcomed into the conversation,' says Hairulazim.
He adds that this format invites Malaysians to explore the realities of sustainable palm oil in an enjoyable and engaging way which can foster a sense of shared responsibility.
A successful start
The first Jelajah Sawit Hijau roadshow kicked off at the Aman Central Mall, Alor Setar, Kedah, in May 2025, with much success. The one-day event was met with enthusiastic support with thousands visitors turning up – setting a new attendance record (footfall) for the shopping mall.
'Families, students, and curious members of the public expressed genuine interest in learning about how palm oil production can coexist with nature conservation,' says Hairulazim.
He adds that the feedback was overwhelmingly positive, where visitors appreciated the chance to see palm oil's environmental benefits firsthand and to engage with the interactive exhibits.
In landscapes where forest and plantation meet, well-managed corridors can offer orangutans a lifeline between shrinking habitats.
Lessons and future plans
Every new initiative offers opportunities to learn, and Jelajah Sawit Hijau is no exception. MPOGCF recognised the importance of early, robust promotion and the value of strong partnerships to enhance the roadshow's reach and impact.
The foundation also plans to diversify engagement methods, such as introducing augmented reality games and improving quiz formats like Kahoot! for future editions.
'We plan to hold the roadshow every two years, allowing us more time to plan, reach wider audiences, and measure long-term outcomes more effectively,' says Hairulazim.
He adds that this measured approach promises not only to sustain momentum but to deepen public understanding over time.
Reaching new friends
MPOGCF's collaboration with Star Media Group's radio arm Suria FM and digital portal Majoriti has been pivotal in broadening its reach to younger, more digitally savvy Malaysians.
Hairulazim says: 'Their expertise in event programming and content creation, combined with celebrity involvement, brought our conservation message to communities we might not have reached otherwise.'
He adds that MPOGCF has observed increased website traffic, growth in social media engagement, invitations to environmental conferences, and new collaborations with NGOs.
Such outcomes demonstrate Jelajah Sawit Hijau's conservation message resonates beyond the roadshow, inspiring action and dialogue.
What's next?
The upcoming Jelajah Sawit Hijau roadshows in Terengganu, Johor, and Kuala Lumpur promise to be even more interactive and exciting. Visitors can look forward to augmented reality experiences, enhanced quiz games with prizes, memory matching challenges, and lively performances.
The Kuala Lumpur finale will be graced by ministerial presence, underscoring the event's importance.
The next stop is this Saturday, Aug 16, at Mayang Mall, Terengganu. Recognising the importance of sustained engagement, MPOGCF plans to extend Jelajah Sawit Hijau beyond physical events by strengthening its digital presence.
'This will keep the conversation on sustainable palm oil active year-round, reaching wider audiences beyond roadshow locations,' says Hairulazim.
He hopes visitors walk away from each roadshow with a new understanding: 'Palm oil, when cultivated responsibly, can be a vital part of the conservation solution.
'It is possible to protect wildlife, preserve forests, and sustain livelihoods while driving economic growth. This is the vision I work for every day.'