Environment

Malaysia is world renowned as a biodiversity hotspot because of its ancient forests and diverse ecosystems which support an abundance of species including iconic plants and animals that are found nowhere else. Our natural environment is also what sustains life and the forest-cloaked ranges which form the headwaters of our river catchments are some of the most cherished geological features and an important facet of our national identity. 

The CSR Award for contributions in the Environment category recognises companies that have demonstrated leadership and commitment to the improvement, preservation and protection of the environment. Examples of impactful projects or programmes include those focusing on energy efficiency, climate change, waste reduction, promoting green spaces, protecting mangrove and peat swamps, reforestation, protecting lakes and rivers, to name a few.

The three companies that were singled out for honours for their CSR work in the 2007 Environment category pursue very different projects, and yet a passion and commitment towards conservation and environmental education is evident in each of them.  BP in Malaysia was named the winner for its longstanding role in advancing turtle conservation in Terengganu since 1999.  BP’s efforts to reverse the decline of the Green Turtle and the other three turtle species that nest in Terengganu’s beaches abundantly demonstrate a consistent long term approach to assuring the survival of these majestic animals. 

BP Malaysia has worked closely with key partners such as the Fisheries Department and WWF Malaysia to set up and run the Ma’Daerah Turtle Sanctuary.  Successful lobbying resulted in the State Government agreeing to gazette 25 hectares out of the 60 hectares of beach at Ma’Daerah. Completion of the BP Exhibition Hall at the Ma’Daerah Turtle Sanctuary has provided an important environmental education base from which to educate visitors on the plight of turtles, and to better understand the conservation initiatives being undertaken and the all important role of the local community. Awareness building and fund raising activities, particularly among students has been supported to continue to spread the conservation message to Malaysian society.  

BP has also been working with the Terengganu State Government to preserve the Labohan Forest Reserve, a coastal hill forest that helps shield the turtle-nesting beach.  The programme has been characterised by a high-level of involvement of management and staff in the project in many different aspects from advocating habitat protection to participating in educational activities. BP personnel routinely serve as facilitators at the camps together with WWF Malaysia and the Fisheries Dept and they are proud of BP’s close identification with marine turtle conservation.

For more information on BP’s conservation programme

IJM Corporation was selected for Honourable Mention because of its integrated approach to greening processes closely linked to its operation. IJM has vested into best environmental practices since 1983 and continues to innovate green approaches at all stages of its oil palm production.  This includes erosion and sedimentation control, water pollution and flood control, air pollution control, noise control, waste management and integrated pest management. In addition, it has launched environmental & ecological conservation initiatives such as the protection of Bukit Pandan and Jalan Kuari homes from flooding caused by an earlier development, a trek to clean up Gunung Ledang and the contribution of Eco Coir Logs to maintain the slopes and trails.

IJM has also initiated a carbon sequestration programme, forest planting, water conservation programmes and projects to protect of birds and their habitat. The company has taken a sustainable development approach in its construction business and ensures the close monitoring of areas of environmental concern with the view of taking pre-emptive measures to prevent irreversible damage to the environment. Sensibly designed environmental management systems are a prerequisite.

For more information on IJM’s conservation programme

Water conservation is one of the leading environmental concerns today and Puncak Niaga has become synonymous with education and conservation issues relating to valuing this vital resource. Puncak Niaga initiated its CSR programme ‘Briged Penyelamat Sungai’ or River Rescue Brigade in schools in 1998, and this is an ongoing feature of its business.

By 2007, over 6,000 schoolchildren have benefited from Puncak Niaga’s water conservation awareness programmes. The project has captured hearts & minds through its hands-on approach that appeals to young people and hopefully has a lasting impact.

Its Educational Outreach programmes expose children to the importance of clean rivers and the need to protect water resources. Puncak Niaga has a dedicated team running their environmental awareness programmes in the Klang Valley.

For more information on Puncak Niaga’s conservation programme

The Prime Minister’s CSR Awards, launched by the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development in 2007, aims to recognise companies that have made a difference to the communities in which they operate through their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programmes. Download the Official Entry Form.