Did you know that Aug 12 and 19 marked World Elephant Day and Orangutan Day, respectively? These days allow us to reflect on the majestic creatures that have roamed our planet for millennia, while serving as a global call to action to protect them from the numerous threats they face.
While African and Asian elephants often dominate conversations, another subspecies also deserves attention and protection: the Bornean Pygmy elephant. A unique and endangered inhabitant of Borneo, they are the smallest of Asian elephants, standing at just 2.5-3m tall.
These gentle giants are known for their docile nature and are believed to have distinct characteristics, such as longer tails and larger ears, that set them apart from their mainland cousins.
Meanwhile, the Bornean orangutan, with its striking red fur, is another notable Bornean species. One of the most intelligent primates, these animals play a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance of the rainforest.
Indeed, as keystone species, both the Bornean Pygmy elephant and the orangutan are crucial to the health of Borneo’s forest ecosystems.
Elephants help maintain the forest by dispersing seeds over vast areas, supporting the growth of various plant species. Similarly, the orangutan contributes to the forest’s biodiversity by spreading seeds as it forages, ensuring the regeneration of key tree species essential to the forest’s survival.
Unfortunately, both are facing significant threats, primarily owing to habitat loss, fragmentation, and illegal logging. This not only disrupts their natural behaviours and migratory patterns but also increases the likelihood of human-wildlife conflict, which can be devastating for both jungle creatures and local communities.
Fortunately, there are many players in Malaysia that are aware of these challenges and are striving to ensure the protection of these endangered species.
There’s the Malaysian Palm Oil Council’s restoration of the Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary – a crucial habitat of the Bornean Pygmy elephant. Reforestation efforts here aim to enhance the area’s ecological integrity.
And to protect orangutans, the Malaysian Palm Oil Green Conservation Foundation reforested 151,444 trees in Lower Kawag, Sabah, last year alone.
Malaysia’s commitment to sustainable palm oil production also plays a crucial role in mitigating deforestation. By promoting sustainable agricultural practices and working closely with local communities and stakeholders, a balance is struck between economic development and environmental conservation.
An essential part of this commitment is adherence to the Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil certification, which guarantees that palm oil production meets stringent environmental and social standards.
Moreover, reforestation projects have significant socioeconomic benefits for local communities. Involving indigenous and local people in such activities provides them with sustainable livelihoods and fosters a sense of stewardship towards the environment, while ensuring the long-term success of these initiatives.
In conclusion, World Elephant Day and World Orangutan Day serve as a reminder of the responsibility all Malaysians share in protecting these incredible animals. The Dayak Transformation Association, for example, engages and empowers youths to nurture a new generation of environmental stewards, who will protect these creatures and ensure they thrive in the forests of Borneo for generations to come.
This article was written by Joseph Janting, president of the Dayak Transformation Association.