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Sustainable palm oil is the cornerstone of IOI’s Sustainable Palm Oil Policy. One of the ways to achieve this is by environmental protection and creating socio-economic development in the areas where IOI operates. For this purpose, amongst several initiatives taken is the Bukit Leelau Landscape Level Approach, a multi-stakeholder project involving indigenous communities (Orang Asli) adjacent to one of our operations in Malaysia. The project involves fire prevention & control, forest & peat rehabilitation and empowerment programs for the ‘Orang Asli’ communities by providing livelihood options such as nursery development & wilding collection, improved fishing activities, etc., for a more sustainable living environment.
Some of the main activities for the Bukit Leelau Peatland landscape that involves the Orang Asli are:
The nursery wilding collection – Shown here is a learning session with the communities on the process of nursery establishment and wilding collection. This exercise ensures the communities understands the steps involve in wilding collection
Fishing activities through canal blocks which helps the local communities increase their food security and livelihoods.
Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) process prior to construction of canal block:
The local communities have been involved from the start of the project, i.e., identification proposed canal blocks. This includes checking on the site, explaining to the Orang Asli on the purposes and implications of the canal blocks and the construction of canal blocks
Community development activities:
An exchange visit to Selangor Peat Swamp Forest involving local communities from Bukit Leelau Estates (BLE) to learn about rehabilitation and livelihood activities. This exchange visit would empower the local communities by hearing the success stories from the communities of Hulu Langat, Selangor on their potential alternative livelihood.
Rehabilitation of the Mini Landscape Plan for Peatlands Adjacent to Bukit Leelau Estate involved:
The rehabilitation of 10 Ha degraded area which are located on state-land and forest reserve. Therefore, the establishment of a seedling nursery is essential for keeping the collected wilding for the on-going rehabilitation process