Johor – 25 September 2025 – Communities, government agencies, and partners
came together today at Felda Tengaroh 5, Johor, to commemorate World Elephant
Day 2025. Held under the theme Living in Harmony with Elephants
#heritageforthefuture, the event highlighted collective efforts by FELDA,
the Sungai Ara Human-Elephant Coexistence (HEC) Committee, and Earthworm
Foundation to foster coexistence for the benefit of both people and wildlife.

This year’s celebration built on the momentum of last
year’s World Elephant Day in Johor, which focused primarily on raising
awareness of coexistence. In 2025, the program introduced concrete progress,
including the launch of the Sungai Ara <a href="https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/e5919bd5695744c5afaaf33f5e0faad0">Human-Elephant Coexistence (HEC) Committee Story Map</a>, showcasing community-driven strategies
to manage over 8,400 hectares of farmland, natural areas, and settlements under
the Elephant Management Zone.

A highlight of the day was the presence of two
elephants, Panti and Pes which allowed communities, especially children and
smallholders, to interact directly with these gentle giants. This rare,
hands-on experience helped deepen understanding, build empathy, and break down
fear by fostering familiarity between people and elephants.

Encik Safiai, Chairman of the Sungai Ara HEC
Committee, said, “Through the committee, we have clear steps whenever elephants
are near — from patrolling and giving early warnings to guiding the elephants
back safely. But managing this landscape is not something the community can do
alone. With the support of government agencies, NGOs, and partners, we are able
to protect our farms while ensuring elephants continue to live safely in their
habitat. This collaboration proves that when everyone comes together, real
solutions are possible.”

District Officer of Mersing, Hj Jamil Hasni Bin Abdullah highlighted the ecological
and cultural significance of elephants, “Elephants are more than wildlife, they
are a keystone species essential to the health of our forests and ecosystems.
We cannot view them only as threats to crops or settlements. Instead, we must
find balance so that development and conservation move forward together. By
building awareness and practicing safety, communities can protect both their
livelihoods and the survival of elephants as part of our shared natural
heritage.”

From an industry perspective, the Federal Land
Development Authority (FELDA) reinforced the importance of safety and
responsibility in coexistence. Zool Hilmi Zahani Bin Haron, Director of FELDA’s
Replanting Department, noted, “Conservation and coexistence with elephants must
go hand in hand with community safety. As we live and work within elephant
ranges, it is vital that we follow proper safety measures, remain vigilant, and
act responsibly. By doing so, we not only protect ourselves and our
livelihoods, but also ensure that elephants can continue to thrive as part of
our shared environment.”

Kiah Hui Ooi, Country Representative for Earthworm
Foundation in Malaysia, emphasised that this annual event is more than just a
ceremony, “What we see here today is part of long-term landscape work in the <a href="https://earthworm.org/our-work/projects/scfs-malaysia">Southern Central
Forest Spine (SCFS) landscape</a> to build more resilient farmers, protect forests, and
create harmony between people and elephants. Coexistence is not built
overnight; it requires trust, commitment, and collective action. Johor is
showing how government, communities, industry, and NGOs can come together to
create solutions that last for generations.”

The Sungai Ara HEC Committee, established in October
2023, consists of local leaders, representatives from the district office of
Kota Tinggi, government agencies, plantation companies, and  Non Government Organisations (NGOs). Together,
they developed a Decision Chart that outlines responses to around 20 possible
scenarios of human-elephant interaction. Each case – from spotting elephant
signs to handling aggressive behaviour – is managed systematically to ensure
community safety while safeguarding elephants and their forest habitats.

The commemoration also featured student competitions,
exhibitions, and awareness activities designed to inspire the next generation
of conservation leaders. Partners including the Department of Wildlife and
National Parks (PERHILITAN), Malaysian Palm Oil Green Conservation Fund (MPOGCF), local communities, and NGOs reaffirmed their commitment to advancing coexistence in Johor’s SCFS landscape.

World Elephant Day 2025 in Johor serves as a reminder
that safeguarding elephants is not only about conserving wildlife, but also
about protecting cultural and ecological heritage. With continued
collaboration, Johor communities are showing how people and elephants can share
the land in harmony, a true legacy for the future.

Johor – 25 September 2025 – Communities, government agencies, and partners
came together today at Felda Tengaroh 5, Johor, to commemorate World Elephant
Day 2025. Held under the theme Living in Harmony with Elephants
#heritageforthefuture, the event highlighted collective efforts by FELDA,
the Sungai Ara Human-Elephant Coexistence (HEC) Committee, and Earthworm
Foundation to foster coexistence for the benefit of both people and wildlife.This year’s celebration built on the momentum of last
year’s World Elephant Day in Johor, which focused primarily on raising
awareness of coexistence. In 2025, the program introduced concrete progress,
including the launch of the Sungai Ara <a href="https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/e5919bd5695744c5afaaf33f5e0faad0">Human-Elephant Coexistence (HEC) Committee Story Map</a>, showcasing community-driven strategies
to manage over 8,400 hectares of farmland, natural areas, and settlements under
the Elephant Management Zone.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/f16fd4c6-39fc-40e9-80ad-6a7b9431bf00/public" alt="From fear to familiarity, communities discover the gentle side of elephants through hands-on experience at the World Elephant Day 2025 commemoration in Johor." />A highlight of the day was the presence of two
elephants, Panti and Pes which allowed communities, especially children and
smallholders, to interact directly with these gentle giants. This rare,
hands-on experience helped deepen understanding, build empathy, and break down
fear by fostering familiarity between people and elephants.Encik Safiai, Chairman of the Sungai Ara HEC
Committee, said, “Through the committee, we have clear steps whenever elephants
are near — from patrolling and giving early warnings to guiding the elephants
back safely. But managing this landscape is not something the community can do
alone. With the support of government agencies, NGOs, and partners, we are able
to protect our farms while ensuring elephants continue to live safely in their
habitat. This collaboration proves that when everyone comes together, real
solutions are possible.”District Officer of Mersing, Hj Jamil Hasni Bin Abdullah highlighted the ecological
and cultural significance of elephants, “Elephants are more than wildlife, they
are a keystone species essential to the health of our forests and ecosystems.
We cannot view them only as threats to crops or settlements. Instead, we must
find balance so that development and conservation move forward together. By
building awareness and practicing safety, communities can protect both their
livelihoods and the survival of elephants as part of our shared natural
heritage.”<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/3fa17313-68ab-45eb-f869-458e2d675900/public" alt="District Officer of Mersing, Hj Jamil Hasni Bin Abdullah, visited Federal Land Consolidation and Rehabilitation Authority (FELCRA) booth to learn about the early warning system." />From an industry perspective, the Federal Land
Development Authority (FELDA) reinforced the importance of safety and
responsibility in coexistence. Zool Hilmi Zahani Bin Haron, Director of FELDA’s
Replanting Department, noted, “Conservation and coexistence with elephants must
go hand in hand with community safety. As we live and work within elephant
ranges, it is vital that we follow proper safety measures, remain vigilant, and
act responsibly. By doing so, we not only protect ourselves and our
livelihoods, but also ensure that elephants can continue to thrive as part of
our shared environment.”Kiah Hui Ooi, Country Representative for Earthworm
Foundation in Malaysia, emphasised that this annual event is more than just a
ceremony, “What we see here today is part of long-term landscape work in the <a href="https://earthworm.org/our-work/projects/scfs-malaysia">Southern Central
Forest Spine (SCFS) landscape</a> to build more resilient farmers, protect forests, and
create harmony between people and elephants. Coexistence is not built
overnight; it requires trust, commitment, and collective action. Johor is
showing how government, communities, industry, and NGOs can come together to
create solutions that last for generations.”The Sungai Ara HEC Committee, established in October
2023, consists of local leaders, representatives from the district office of
Kota Tinggi, government agencies, plantation companies, and Non Government Organisations (NGOs). Together,
they developed a Decision Chart that outlines responses to around 20 possible
scenarios of human-elephant interaction. Each case – from spotting elephant
signs to handling aggressive behaviour – is managed systematically to ensure
community safety while safeguarding elephants and their forest habitats.The commemoration also featured student competitions,
exhibitions, and awareness activities designed to inspire the next generation
of conservation leaders. Partners including the Department of Wildlife and
National Parks (PERHILITAN), Malaysian Palm Oil Green Conservation Fund (MPOGCF), local communities, and NGOs reaffirmed their commitment to advancing coexistence in Johor’s SCFS landscape.World Elephant Day 2025 in Johor serves as a reminder
that safeguarding elephants is not only about conserving wildlife, but also
about protecting cultural and ecological heritage. With continued
collaboration, Johor communities are showing how people and elephants can share
the land in harmony, a true legacy for the future.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/aed38042-ab90-4f05-72d2-83e99da5d700/public" alt="From left to right: Malaysia Country Representative of Earthworm Foundation, Ooi Kiah Hui; Chairman of HEC Committee Sg. Ara, En. Safiai Mohamad; Regional Controller of FGV (Felda Global Ventures) Mersing Region, En. Mohd Azani Ab Latif; Regional Director of FELDA Johor Bahru Region, En. Mohd Helmi Fakhzan Bin Abd Wahab;&nbsp;District Officer of Mersing, Tn. Hj. Jamil Hasni Bin Abdullah;&nbsp;

Director of Replanting Department, En. Zool Hilmi Zahini Bin Haron;&nbsp;Official Representative of District Officer of Kota Tinggi District Office, En. Ramdan Bin Rokman; Department of Wildlife and National Parks representative, En. Azrul Bin Abd Manan; Branch Assistant Coordinator Zone 1 Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB), En. Alif Fikri Bin Aripin" />

Environment / SGDs / Recycling

Politics / Government / Local government

Foundations / Associations

Campaign

Government offices / organizations

Communities in Johor Unite for World Elephant Day 2025: Living in Harmony with Elephants #heritageforthefuture

Tongod, Sabah – 19 September 2025 – This year, World Elephant Day is
celebrated in Tongod District, spearheaded by Tongod District Office, Sabah
Wildlife Department, Earthworm Foundation, and partner agencies. More than 500
participants, including local communities, students, government agencies, and
Non-Government Organisations (NGOs), gathered to highlight the importance of
human elephant coexistence, a growing priority in ensuring the well-being of
both local communities and Bornean elephants.

Building on <a href="https://earthworm.org/news-stories/world-elephant-day-celebration-2024-fostering-coexistence-between-humans-and-elephants-in-johor-for-future-generations-2">previous years’ momentum in Beluran District</a>, this year’s commemoration in Tongod
marks a natural step in expanding the movement for coexistence, engaging more
communities and strengthening collaboration across Sabah. In areas where
elephants and people share the same landscapes, encounters can sometimes put
both communities and livelihoods at risk. To address this, the event
highlighted community-led solutions through cultural performances, conservation
awareness activities by the Wildlife Junior Rangers, and a forum on “Elephants
and Community: The Role of Community Patrol Groups in Elephant Coexistence,”
moderated by Earthworm and joined by the Community Elephant Ranger Team (CERT),
Aki Keramuak Ranger Team, and 7Team.

Students took part in poster and colouring contests,
while local community initiatives were also recognised, including the adoption
of the 3P (Pemantauan, Pengawalan dan Pengiringan) or Monitoring, &nbsp;Management, and Escort Standard Operational
Procedure, a practical guideline developed jointly by Earthworm Foundation,
Seratu Aatai, and Sabah Wildlife Department to guide community rangers during
elephant encounters.

Together, these efforts highlight the importance of
equipping communities to serve as the first line of stewardship in areas where
human–elephant interactions occur. Tongod District Officer, Yuesri Ismail Yusof, stressed
the urgency of conservation by drawing lessons from Sabah’s past, “The Bornean
elephant is an irreplaceable part of our natural heritage. We must not allow it
to follow the fate of the Sumatran rhinoceros, which has recently gone extinct
in Sabah. Protecting elephants today means safeguarding our biodiversity,
culture, and the well-being of future generations.”

Building on this call for conservation urgency, Datuk
Masiung Banah, Chairman of the Sabah Housing and Town Development Board and
State Assemblyman for Kuamut, emphasised the importance of shared
responsibility, “Elephants are a part of Sabah’s heritage and natural identity.
Most smallholders, who primarily farm palm, have had their farms safeguarded
from elephant interactions, helping to ensure their livelihoods remain secure.
Protecting elephants while safeguarding our communities is a challenge we must
face together. Initiatives like today’s celebration in Tongod show that when
government, NGOs, and communities unite, we can find solutions that benefit
both people and wildlife.”

This call for unity was echoed by Sabah Wildlife
Department, who highlighted that coexistence depends on strong partnerships
with local people. “Sabah Wildlife Department has long recognised that the key
to addressing human–elephant interactions lies in community involvement,” said
Director Mohd Soffian Bin Abu Bakar. “By providing training, recognition, and
platforms such as this commemoration, we empower local people to take active
roles in conservation. This event reflects the growing commitment to a more
inclusive and collaborative approach.”

For Earthworm Foundation, the event is not just about
awareness or yearly ceremonial activities, but about building a stronger
foundation for community-led conservation as part of the <a href="https://earthworm.org/our-work/projects/sabah-malaysia">broader Sabah landscape initiative</a>. Community-led patrollers are effective
as first responders in reducing risks for both people and elephants. “We are
proud that Tongod is starting this initiative, and with the support of
government agencies, local leaders, and civil society, we hope to replicate
this approach across Sabah,” said Kiah Hui Ooi, Country Representative of
Earthworm Foundation Malaysia. “Empowering communities is key to ensuring
long-term coexistence between people and elephants. I call on all stakeholders
to join us in realising human–elephant coexistence across the landscape.”

By bringing
together diverse stakeholders, the initiative continues to grow as a collective
effort to protect the Bornean elephant while promoting sustainable development
for local people.

Tongod, Sabah – 19 September 2025 – This year, World Elephant Day is
celebrated in Tongod District, spearheaded by Tongod District Office, Sabah
Wildlife Department, Earthworm Foundation, and partner agencies. More than 500
participants, including local communities, students, government agencies, and
Non-Government Organisations (NGOs), gathered to highlight the importance of
human elephant coexistence, a growing priority in ensuring the well-being of
both local communities and Bornean elephants.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/7eaa20ec-84c3-4714-9ca9-4e500aab0000/public" alt="Through music and movement, students in Tongod shared their culture during World Elephant Day 2025 commemoration, reminding us that coexistence is about people, heritage, and elephants living in harmony.&nbsp;" />Building on <a href="https://earthworm.org/news-stories/world-elephant-day-celebration-2024-fostering-coexistence-between-humans-and-elephants-in-johor-for-future-generations-2">previous years’ momentum in Beluran District</a>, this year’s commemoration in Tongod
marks a natural step in expanding the movement for coexistence, engaging more
communities and strengthening collaboration across Sabah. In areas where
elephants and people share the same landscapes, encounters can sometimes put
both communities and livelihoods at risk. To address this, the event
highlighted community-led solutions through cultural performances, conservation
awareness activities by the Wildlife Junior Rangers, and a forum on “Elephants
and Community: The Role of Community Patrol Groups in Elephant Coexistence,”
moderated by Earthworm and joined by the Community Elephant Ranger Team (CERT),
Aki Keramuak Ranger Team, and 7Team.Students took part in poster and colouring contests,
while local community initiatives were also recognised, including the adoption
of the 3P (Pemantauan, Pengawalan dan Pengiringan) or Monitoring, &nbsp;Management, and Escort Standard Operational
Procedure, a practical guideline developed jointly by Earthworm Foundation,
Seratu Aatai, and Sabah Wildlife Department to guide community rangers during
elephant encounters.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/7875dfd7-25b3-4ac4-8c3c-31ddde9dae00/public" alt="Community Development Leader Unit Officer, Tokyo @ Abdul Hassim Haji Omar visited the exhibition booth and joined students for a group photo as they proudly showcased their art posters illustrating the vision of humans and elephants living in harmony." />Together, these efforts highlight the importance of
equipping communities to serve as the first line of stewardship in areas where
human–elephant interactions occur. Tongod District Officer, Yuesri Ismail Yusof, stressed
the urgency of conservation by drawing lessons from Sabah’s past, “The Bornean
elephant is an irreplaceable part of our natural heritage. We must not allow it
to follow the fate of the Sumatran rhinoceros, which has recently gone extinct
in Sabah. Protecting elephants today means safeguarding our biodiversity,
culture, and the well-being of future generations.”Building on this call for conservation urgency, Datuk
Masiung Banah, Chairman of the Sabah Housing and Town Development Board and
State Assemblyman for Kuamut, emphasised the importance of shared
responsibility, “Elephants are a part of Sabah’s heritage and natural identity.
Most smallholders, who primarily farm palm, have had their farms safeguarded
from elephant interactions, helping to ensure their livelihoods remain secure.
Protecting elephants while safeguarding our communities is a challenge we must
face together. Initiatives like today’s celebration in Tongod show that when
government, NGOs, and communities unite, we can find solutions that benefit
both people and wildlife.”This call for unity was echoed by Sabah Wildlife
Department, who highlighted that coexistence depends on strong partnerships
with local people. “Sabah Wildlife Department has long recognised that the key
to addressing human–elephant interactions lies in community involvement,” said
Director Mohd Soffian Bin Abu Bakar. “By providing training, recognition, and
platforms such as this commemoration, we empower local people to take active
roles in conservation. This event reflects the growing commitment to a more
inclusive and collaborative approach.”For Earthworm Foundation, the event is not just about
awareness or yearly ceremonial activities, but about building a stronger
foundation for community-led conservation as part of the <a href="https://earthworm.org/our-work/projects/sabah-malaysia">broader Sabah landscape initiative</a>. Community-led patrollers are effective
as first responders in reducing risks for both people and elephants. “We are
proud that Tongod is starting this initiative, and with the support of
government agencies, local leaders, and civil society, we hope to replicate
this approach across Sabah,” said Kiah Hui Ooi, Country Representative of
Earthworm Foundation Malaysia. “Empowering communities is key to ensuring
long-term coexistence between people and elephants. I call on all stakeholders
to join us in realising human–elephant coexistence across the landscape.”By bringing
together diverse stakeholders, the initiative continues to grow as a collective
effort to protect the Bornean elephant while promoting sustainable development
for local people.

Spreading Human-Elephant Coexistence Movement: World Elephant Day 2025 in Tongod District of Sabah Landscape 

The partnership extension reaffirms the shared commitment of MPOB and Earthworm Foundation to strengthen sustainable practices among oil palm smallholder farmerss, enhance community livelihoods through improved productivity and environmental stewardship.&nbsp;

Since its inception in 2021, the MPOB–Earthworm collaboration has delivered tangible benefits for smallholder communities across Malaysia. Nearly 4,000 smallholders have received continuous training and on-farm guidance which helped them improve productivity while adopting sustainable practices. The continuous effort has been reflected which more than 1,000 smallholders registered for the Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) certification.&nbsp;&nbsp;

About 100 of them successfully diversified their sources of income through initiatives such as bird’s nest farming, melon, mushroom and chili cultivation, which not only supplement household earnings but also build income resilience against market fluctuations. The programme has also supported smallholders in accessing financial assistance, securing market opportunities, and maintaining standard health and safety practices in their plantations, including the proper use of personal protective equipment and chemical storage.&nbsp;

Rosdi bin Mahadi, Chairman of Koperasi Orang Asli Sg. Mok, during his welcoming remarks, mentioned that, “We, the indigenous community here, feel seen, heard, and supported through this programme. In the past, we were unsure of the best way to manage our oil palm estates. Now thanks to MPOB and Earthworm Foundation, we have gained knowledge to manage our plantations better, increase productivity, and even explore new income sources such as mushroom and chili cultivation. It also has brought our community closer together through the setting up of the Sg. Mok Orang Asli cooperative, giving us confidence that smallholders like us can build a sustainable future for our families.”&nbsp;

Beyond the plantations, the partnership has fostered community stewardship of the environment, together with government agencies, experts, and the private sector. Stronger connections have also been built within the palm oil supply chain, linking smallholders more closely with mills and buyers, while new communication platforms such as dedicated WhatsApp groups have enabled timely knowledge-sharing and support among stakeholders.&nbsp;

Datuk Dr. Ahmad Parveez Hj Ghulam Kadir, Director General of MPOB in his opening speech stated, “This renewed partnership reflects MPOB’s commitment to ensure that smallholders are equipped with the knowledge, tools, and innovations needed to thrive in an evolving market while upholding sustainability.”&nbsp;

While Ooi Kiah-Hui, Malaysia Country Representative of Earthworm Foundation expressed her gratitude for the continued collaboration that will further help the smallholders to enable them intoto have sustainable livelihood, “Earthworm Foundation is honoured to continue this journey with MPOB and the smallholder community in Sg. Mok and alongside the many smallholders included in this MOA. Today is not only about a celebration of the partnership, but also the dedication of smallholders who are determined to improve their livelihoods while safeguarding the environment.”&nbsp;

The MOA exchange was held in conjunction with the Oil Palm Agronomy Centre (OPAC) Oil Palm Clinic initiative, where smallholders participated in soil analysis, crop management sessions, and training to improve Fresh Fruit Bunch (FFB) quality, guided by MPOB’s Agronomy and Geospatial Technology Unit (AGT) and TUNAS extension officers. A guided site visit also showcased integrated farming models and sustainable practices led by the Sg. Mok Orang Asli cooperative.&nbsp;

The MPOB–Earthworm partnership, first established in 2021, has already supported thousands of smallholders in building stronger, more sustainable livelihoods. With the new phase from 2025 to 2028, both organisations aim to deepen their impact by strengthening oil palm smallholder resilience, improving productivity, diversifying livelihoods, and fostering long-term sustainability.&nbsp;

Kuala Rompin, Pahang, 1 September 2025 – Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB) and Earthworm Foundation marked the renewal of strategic collaboration for another three years from 2025 to 2028, with the exchange of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) at Rumah Adat, Kampung Orang Asli Sungai Mok, Pahang. The partnership extension reaffirms the shared commitment of MPOB and Earthworm Foundation to strengthen sustainable practices among oil palm smallholder farmerss, enhance community livelihoods through improved productivity and environmental stewardship.&nbsp;Since its inception in 2021, the MPOB–Earthworm collaboration has delivered tangible benefits for smallholder communities across Malaysia. Nearly 4,000 smallholders have received continuous training and on-farm guidance which helped them improve productivity while adopting sustainable practices. The continuous effort has been reflected which more than 1,000 smallholders registered for the Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) certification.&nbsp;&nbsp;About 100 of them successfully diversified their sources of income through initiatives such as bird’s nest farming, melon, mushroom and chili cultivation, which not only supplement household earnings but also build income resilience against market fluctuations. The programme has also supported smallholders in accessing financial assistance, securing market opportunities, and maintaining standard health and safety practices in their plantations, including the proper use of personal protective equipment and chemical storage.&nbsp;<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/54b22160-c1ac-4147-7333-985ff0f1c200/public" alt="Chairman of Koperasi Orang Asli Sg. Mok, Rosdi bin Mahdi, presented a handwoven mat made by the community to the Director General of MPOB, Datuk Dr. Ahmad Parveez Hj. Ghulam Kadir, as a symbolic gesture during the MPOB–EF Memorandum of Agreement Exchange Ceremony on 1 September 2025 at Rumah Adat, Kampung Sungai Mok, Kuala Rompin, Pahang." />Rosdi bin Mahadi, Chairman of Koperasi Orang Asli Sg. Mok, during his welcoming remarks, mentioned that, “We, the indigenous community here, feel seen, heard, and supported through this programme. In the past, we were unsure of the best way to manage our oil palm estates. Now thanks to MPOB and Earthworm Foundation, we have gained knowledge to manage our plantations better, increase productivity, and even explore new income sources such as mushroom and chili cultivation. It also has brought our community closer together through the setting up of the Sg. Mok Orang Asli cooperative, giving us confidence that smallholders like us can build a sustainable future for our families.”&nbsp;Beyond the plantations, the partnership has fostered community stewardship of the environment, together with government agencies, experts, and the private sector. Stronger connections have also been built within the palm oil supply chain, linking smallholders more closely with mills and buyers, while new communication platforms such as dedicated WhatsApp groups have enabled timely knowledge-sharing and support among stakeholders.&nbsp;Datuk Dr. Ahmad Parveez Hj Ghulam Kadir, Director General of MPOB in his opening speech stated, “This renewed partnership reflects MPOB’s commitment to ensure that smallholders are equipped with the knowledge, tools, and innovations needed to thrive in an evolving market while upholding sustainability.”&nbsp;<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/9e94cd58-cb93-4ea9-f55a-fba6f1beaf00/public" alt="Datuk Dr. Ahmad Parveez Hj. Ghulam Kadir, Director General of MPOB, delivered the opening speech at the MPOB–EF Memorandum of Agreement Exchange Ceremony on 1 September 2025 at the Rumah Adat, Kampung Sungai Mok, Kuala Rompin, Pahang." />While Ooi Kiah-Hui, Malaysia Country Representative of Earthworm Foundation expressed her gratitude for the continued collaboration that will further help the smallholders to enable them intoto have sustainable livelihood, “Earthworm Foundation is honoured to continue this journey with MPOB and the smallholder community in Sg. Mok and alongside the many smallholders included in this MOA. Today is not only about a celebration of the partnership, but also the dedication of smallholders who are determined to improve their livelihoods while safeguarding the environment.”&nbsp;The MOA exchange was held in conjunction with the Oil Palm Agronomy Centre (OPAC) Oil Palm Clinic initiative, where smallholders participated in soil analysis, crop management sessions, and training to improve Fresh Fruit Bunch (FFB) quality, guided by MPOB’s Agronomy and Geospatial Technology Unit (AGT) and TUNAS extension officers. A guided site visit also showcased integrated farming models and sustainable practices led by the Sg. Mok Orang Asli cooperative.&nbsp;The MPOB–Earthworm partnership, first established in 2021, has already supported thousands of smallholders in building stronger, more sustainable livelihoods. With the new phase from 2025 to 2028, both organisations aim to deepen their impact by strengthening oil palm smallholder resilience, improving productivity, diversifying livelihoods, and fostering long-term sustainability.&nbsp;<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/9a5543dd-97b2-4fcc-b5b1-e85f82eeb300/public" alt="Director General of MPOB, Datuk Dr. Ahmad Parveez Hj. Ghulam Kadir, held discussions with Malaysia Country Representative of Earthworm Foundation, Kiah Hui Ooi, and OPAC during Palm Oil Clinic for Smallholders on 1 September 2025 in Sungai Mok, Rompin, Pahang." />

Think tank

Kuala Rompin, Pahang, 1 September 2025 – Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB) and Earthworm Foundation marked the renewal of strategic collaboration for another three years from 2025 to 2028, with the exchange of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) at Rumah Adat, Kampung Orang Asli Sungai Mok, Pahang. 

MPOB and Earthworm Foundation Renew Strategic Partnership to Advance Smallholder Resilience and Sustainability

Sungai Ara, September 27, 2024 — More than five
hundred community members including children gathered at the Dewan Masyarakat
Sungai Ara (Demasra) FELCRA Sungai Ara in Johor to participate in the World
Elephant Day Celebration yesterday. This event brought together various
stakeholders to celebrate and strengthen conservation efforts to achieve
harmonious coexistence between humans and elephants. The celebration was
organised by Earthworm Foundation, an impact-driven non-profit organisation,
and the Human-Elephant Coexistence (HEC) Committee of Sungai Ara, with support
from the Malaysian Palm Oil Green Conservation Foundation (MPOGCF).

Mohd Saharuddin Bin Mohd Yunus,
Chief Assistant to District Officer of Kota Tinggi, who opened the event,
emphasised the importance of collective action. “Achieving coexistence between
humans and elephants is a shared responsibility for all of us,” he stated. He
highlighted various state efforts, including regular monitoring by PERHILITAN,
the installation of road lights, and the fitting of collars on elephants to
track their movement.

For the first time, two trained elephants from the Johor Elephant Sanctuary were brought to the event, allowing community members to interact closely with these magnificent animals. “I hope this experience nurtures a sense of care for wildlife, especially Asian elephants, which are often mistakenly blamed for crop damage despite their vital role in maintaining ecosystem balance,” said Mohd Saharuddin Bin Mohd Yunus.&nbsp;

Safiai Bin Mohammad, Chair of the HEC Committee of Sungai Ara, who has been farming since 1975 and has experienced numerous interactions with elephants, emphasised the need for the community to shift their perspective and mindset. “I used to see them as enemies, but now I understand that they are allies in our ecosystem.”&nbsp;

According to the <a href="https://www.wildlife.gov.my/index.php/en/" target="_blank">Peninsular Malaysia Department of Wildlife</a> and National Parks, negative interactions between humans and elephants from 2015 to 2020 resulted in estimated economic losses of RM 30 million (approximately USD 6.4 million), primarily due to crop damage. In 2019 alone, nearly 50% of these losses, amounting to RM 14 million (about USD 2.9 million), were recorded.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Kiah Hui Ooi, Southern Central
Forest Spine (SCFS) Landscape Coordinator and Country Representative of the
Earthworm Foundation in Malaysia, emphasised the importance of collective
action for future initiatives. “We are proud to announce that we have
successfully facilitated the establishment of the Human-Elephant Coexistence
(HEC) Committee in Sungai Ara,” she stated. This committee is the first of its
kind in Peninsular Malaysia, bringing together smallholders and large
plantation concessions. 

Unfortunately, on the same day as
the event, not far from the location where the commemoration took place, an
incident of human-elephant interaction occurred in the Mersing area that
resulted in fatalities. The incident highlighted the urgency and importance of
collective action, as well as awareness raising. “Now more than ever, it is
important to explore long-term solutions, such as enriching elephant habitats
and migration routes and establishing wildlife corridors. Joint action and
collaboration among stakeholders are imperative,” added Kiah Hui Ooi.

The palm oil industry join hands with communities and stakeholders towards the human-elephant coexistence. Hairulazim Mahmud ,General Manager of MPOGCF that funded the HEC program in Sungai Ara stated, “The palm oil industry in Malaysia is committed to supporting elephant conservation efforts and achieving human-elephant coexistence. This demonstrates our dedication to environmental preservation and sustainable practices.”

The World Elephant Day event also featured a variety of educational and interactive activities, including a colouring competition for children, aimed at instilling love and curiousity for elephants. Under the theme of maintaining a legacy for future generations, this World Elephant Day not only commemorates the existence of elephants, but also raises public awareness about the importance of conservation and the hope for harmonious human-elephant coexistence. Apart from the World Elephant Day commemoration event in Johor, Earthworm Foundation and partners also held a similar event in Sabah.  &nbsp;

Sungai Ara, September 27, 2024 — More than five
hundred community members including children gathered at the Dewan Masyarakat
Sungai Ara (Demasra) FELCRA Sungai Ara in Johor to participate in the World
Elephant Day Celebration yesterday. This event brought together various
stakeholders to celebrate and strengthen conservation efforts to achieve
harmonious coexistence between humans and elephants. The celebration was
organised by Earthworm Foundation, an impact-driven non-profit organisation,
and the Human-Elephant Coexistence (HEC) Committee of Sungai Ara, with support
from the Malaysian Palm Oil Green Conservation Foundation (MPOGCF).Mohd Saharuddin Bin Mohd Yunus,
Chief Assistant to District Officer of Kota Tinggi, who opened the event,
emphasised the importance of collective action. “Achieving coexistence between
humans and elephants is a shared responsibility for all of us,” he stated. He
highlighted various state efforts, including regular monitoring by PERHILITAN,
the installation of road lights, and the fitting of collars on elephants to
track their movement.For the first time, two trained elephants from the Johor Elephant Sanctuary were brought to the event, allowing community members to interact closely with these magnificent animals. “I hope this experience nurtures a sense of care for wildlife, especially Asian elephants, which are often mistakenly blamed for crop damage despite their vital role in maintaining ecosystem balance,” said Mohd Saharuddin Bin Mohd Yunus.&nbsp;Safiai Bin Mohammad, Chair of the HEC Committee of Sungai Ara, who has been farming since 1975 and has experienced numerous interactions with elephants, emphasised the need for the community to shift their perspective and mindset. “I used to see them as enemies, but now I understand that they are allies in our ecosystem.”&nbsp;<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/62df7928-88dd-4229-c7b6-48929370b400/public" alt="Children curious to interact with an elephant during the World Elephant Day Commemoration Event on September 26, 2024. Copyright: Earthworm Foundation." />According to the <a href="https://www.wildlife.gov.my/index.php/en/" target="_blank">Peninsular Malaysia Department of Wildlife</a> and National Parks, negative interactions between humans and elephants from 2015 to 2020 resulted in estimated economic losses of RM 30 million (approximately USD 6.4 million), primarily due to crop damage. In 2019 alone, nearly 50% of these losses, amounting to RM 14 million (about USD 2.9 million), were recorded.&nbsp; &nbsp;Kiah Hui Ooi, Southern Central
Forest Spine (SCFS) Landscape Coordinator and Country Representative of the
Earthworm Foundation in Malaysia, emphasised the importance of collective
action for future initiatives. “We are proud to announce that we have
successfully facilitated the establishment of the Human-Elephant Coexistence
(HEC) Committee in Sungai Ara,” she stated. This committee is the first of its
kind in Peninsular Malaysia, bringing together smallholders and large
plantation concessions. Unfortunately, on the same day as
the event, not far from the location where the commemoration took place, an
incident of human-elephant interaction occurred in the Mersing area that
resulted in fatalities. The incident highlighted the urgency and importance of
collective action, as well as awareness raising. “Now more than ever, it is
important to explore long-term solutions, such as enriching elephant habitats
and migration routes and establishing wildlife corridors. Joint action and
collaboration among stakeholders are imperative,” added Kiah Hui Ooi.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/41e31ec9-4b91-432f-dd76-9584abd86d00/public" alt="A colouring competition for children at the World Elephant Day Commemoration Event on 26 September 2024. Copyright: Earthworm Foundation" />The palm oil industry join hands with communities and stakeholders towards the human-elephant coexistence. Hairulazim Mahmud ,General Manager of MPOGCF that funded the HEC program in Sungai Ara stated, “The palm oil industry in Malaysia is committed to supporting elephant conservation efforts and achieving human-elephant coexistence. This demonstrates our dedication to environmental preservation and sustainable practices.”The World Elephant Day event also featured a variety of educational and interactive activities, including a colouring competition for children, aimed at instilling love and curiousity for elephants. Under the theme of maintaining a legacy for future generations, this World Elephant Day not only commemorates the existence of elephants, but also raises public awareness about the importance of conservation and the hope for harmonious human-elephant coexistence. Apart from the World Elephant Day commemoration event in Johor, Earthworm Foundation and partners also held a similar event in Sabah. &nbsp;