Malaysia transitions towards non-orangutan diplomatic relations
** Following backlash from animal rights advocates, Malaysia decides against using orangutans for diplomacy. Even though purchasers of Malaysian palm oil can still adopt orangutans as per the original plan, these primates will remain in their natural habitats, as reported in local media. Originally, Malaysia had proposed to gift orangutans to countries buying palm oil, as disclosed in May.**
Important forest areas ought to be protected within palm oil plantations, according to Malaysia's Minister of Resources Johari Abdul Ghani, who stated this on Monday. "These zones enable orangutans to move freely, locate food, and reproduce unhindered, without any disruption from humans or other animals," the minister said, sharing details with "The Star" newspaper.
Global palm oil purchasers have the option to sponsor one or more orangutans, the minister underlined. The funds collected will be utilized to implement wildlife conservation initiatives.
In May, Malaysia had proposed offering some endangered great apes to countries buying palm oil, specifically significant importers like the European Union and India. This plan caused uproar among environmentalists, who highlighted that palm oil production in Malaysia and Indonesia leads to widespread destruction of tropical rainforests, the natural habitat of orangutans.
Orangutans are critically endangered. Their native habitats are decreasing as rainforests are cleared to make room for palm oil production, which is utilized in various products such as food and cosmetics. China has long employed its panda diplomacy to secure international influence, by loaning pandas to countries for several years to alter their perceptions towards Beijing.
Despite the cancellation of gifting orangutans to palm oil buyers, the option to adopt these primates still exists for global purchasers. This allows individuals to contribute financially towards wildlife conservation efforts, as highlighted by Malaysia's Minister of Resources.
