Zus Coffee and Ape Malaysia teams at Kampung Sukau, Kinabatangan, marking the beginning of their collaboration.
A LOCAL coffee chain began its reforestation journey with planting 500 native trees in Kampung Sukau, Kinabatangan, Sabah.
The initiative by Zus Coffee marked a milestone in its larger pledge to plant 5,000 trees in partnership with Animal Projects and Environmental Education (Ape Malaysia).
It is aimed at preserving the natural environment and nurturing a healthier ecosystem for future generations.
The trees were grown from seed and the saplings supplied by the skilled hands of Kampung Sukau villagers.
Their deep knowledge of plant life not only ensured the saplings’ quality but also strengthened the community’s role in the restoration process.
These saplings were then nurtured in Ape Malaysia’s nursery – home to 22 native species – before being carefully prepared for field planting.
Each tree represents more than carbon absorption – it symbolises hope, healing, and the power of collective action.
The first 500 were planted on-site by Ape Malaysia’s and Zus’ teams.
The “Kopi to Kinabatangan Canopy” initiative aims to not only restore lost forest corridors but also protect vital biodiversity, empower rural communities and reimagine how brands can contribute meaningfully to real-world climate solutions.
The brand said the restoration effort would not have been possible without the support of over 341,000 Zus Coffee app users who backed the pledge.
With the collective effort, an area that was once a logging site devoid of natural tree cover is now showing signs of recovery.
Orang utan nests and elephant feeding activity have already been spotted in the vicinity – a promising sign that life is returning.
“Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword for us, it’s a responsibility.
“We know we can’t solve the climate crisis alone, but we believe every step counts,” said Zus Coffee chief operating officer Venon Tian.
“This reforestation effort is our way of showing that doing good for the planet can be deeply rooted in who we are as a brand.”
Ape Malaysia project manager Mark Louis Benedict said, “This reforestation site is an important wildlife habitat area.
“The trees we’ve planted today will support food chains, restore these once degraded habitats, and gradually rebuild a thriving ecosystem.
“The early signs are very encouraging.”
