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Nurturing Greener Values through Project RELeaf Educational Programme
Tawau, December 18, 2024 - Reflecting its deep commitment to environmental stewardship and nurturing future generations, Nestlé Malaysia recently expanded its Project RELeaf reforestation initiative to educate and cultivate greener values among schoolchildren. Launching its inaugural RELeaf Educational Programme at SK Abaka in Tawau, Sabah, over 100 students and teachers joined Nestlé Cares volunteers in tree planting efforts and other interactive activities.
Over 100 students and teachers from SK Abaka in Tawau, Sabah, came together with Nestlé Cares volunteers to kickstart Project RELeaf's inaugural Educational Programme, aimed at cultivating young environmental champions through tree planting and interactive learning.
With the support of partners Yayasan Sime Darby, SD Guthrie Berhad and the Tropical Rainforest Conservation & Research Centre, the programme engaged both pre-school and primary school students to plant native tree species in the vicinity of the school, including Tropical Almond trees or Ketapang, Jambu Air, Taisai Paya, Simpur, Sentang and Obah Jangkang amongst others. These species were carefully selected to enhance local biodiversity and promote ecological balance, while also contributing to the greening of the school area.
Nestlé Cares volunteers demonstrating tree planting methods to SK Abaka students, encouraging them to take an active role in caring for the environment.
Mr. Juan Aranols, Chief Executive Officer of Nestlé Malaysia, said, “We are committed to shaping a sustainable future for both people and the planet. As part of our Forest Positive strategy, through Project RELeaf, and previously Project Rileaf, we have already planted 3 million trees to date. This marks our positive progress towards our goal of planting 4 million trees across Malaysia by the second or third quarter of 2025, as well as contributing to the national ‘Greening Malaysia’ campaign, which aims to plant 100 million trees.”
“By extending our efforts to students via the RELeaf Educational Programme, we strive to inspire the next generation of environmental stewards in safeguarding Malaysia’s precious ecosystems. This initiative is a reflection of our belief in the power of collective action and education of the younger generations is key to tackle critical challenges such as deforestation, climate change and biodiversity loss.”
A highlight of the RELeaf Educational Programme was its six interactive learning stations, designed to engage the students in meaningful environmental education. Participants received practical demonstrations on planting and caring for trees, learned about native species through engaging trivia games and discovered the critical role trees play in generating oxygen and supporting wildlife.
Students also learned about responsible waste management through hands-on activities such as recycling workshops and a “Trash Tower Challenge”. This helped young learners gain a better understanding on the importance of recycling, waste reduction and sustainable practices that they can apply in their daily lives.
Project RELeaf plays a key role in Nestlé Malaysia's environmental conservation efforts. Guided by the 3 "Rs" – REforest, REstore, and REspect – the initiative focuses on reforesting wildlife corridors to connect fragmented forests and protect habitats, as well as restoring riparian buffer zones to minimise water contamination. Also engaging local communities in seedling production and tree planting, the project creates a holistic ecosystem of environmental stewardship, supporting both ecological restoration and community livelihoods, creating a greener and more resilient future for all.
Students of SK Abaka planting native tree species as part of the RELeaf Educational Programme, contributing to the greening of their school environment.
Students of SK Abaka taking part in the RELeaf Educational Programme, as a Nestlé Cares volunteer shares insights on the importance of trees in combating climate change and supporting biodiversity.
About Nestlé Malaysia: Nourishing Malaysians for Over a Century
Since 1912, Nestlé has been nourishing Malaysians and earning their trust through our quality brands and products. We take pride in our role as a responsible corporate citizen, striving to improve the communities in which we operate. Today, we operate six factories, employing over 5,000 Malaysians. All our products are Halal, making us the largest Halal manufacturer for Nestlé globally.
As the world's largest food and beverage manufacturer, with our headquarters based in Switzerland, Nestlé operates in over 180 countries. With a workforce of over 270,000 dedicated employees, we are driven by our purpose to unlock the power of food, enhancing the quality of life for everyone, both today and for future generations. Our commitment to nutrition, health, and wellness guides our performance, ensuring we deliver on our promise of GOOD FOOD, GOOD LIFE.
To discover more about our century-long journey of nourishing Malaysians, please visit our website at https://www.nestle.com.my/ask-nestle/we-are-nestle.
For more information, please contact:
Shaheen Zaffar
Nestlé (Malaysia) Berhad
Tel: (+603) 7965 6456
E-mail: [email protected]
Anis Farisha or Yasmin Kadir
acorn communications
Tel: (+603) 7958 8348
E-mail: [email protected]