Going APE for the environment

The Star

03-08-2025

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.