Tunku Imran (centre) exchanging mementoes with Abdullah during the courtesy visit.
Sime Darby Foundation (YSD) is supporting the development and implementation of a species conservation action plan (SCAP) for the critically endangered red langur in Maludam National Park, Betong Division in Sarawak.
The initiative is aimed at protecting one of Malaysia’s rarest primates while promoting sustainable economic development for nearby communities.
With fewer than 300 red langurs estimated to remain in the park, the action plan includes habitat protection, environmental education and promotion of responsible nature-based tourism.
It also aims to benefit some 8,000 B40 residents in surrounding areas through community upliftment tied to conservation.
The project is part of YSD’s ongoing collaboration with Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC), supported by Sime Darby Bhd, SD Guthrie Bhd and Sime Darby Property Bhd.
Its conservation work in Sarawak was highlighted during a courtesy visit by YSD chairman Tunku Tan Sri Imran Tuanku Ja’afar and his delegation to the state’s Natural Resources and Urban Development Ministry, where they were received by permanent secretary Datuk Abdullah Julaihi.
Discussions focused on aligning YSD’s philanthropic pillars with Sarawak’s priorities on biodiversity protection, environmental stewardship and community well-being.
Red langur in population decline.
Since 2011, YSD has invested more than RM65mil in Sarawak across 25 projects involving education, environment, community and health, sports, arts and culture.
Of these, 20 projects are currently ongoing.
Tunku Imran said the foundation was committed to ensuring conservation impact on nature and communities.
“The ministry’s leadership is vital in driving conservation priorities that safeguard Sarawak’s rich natural heritage while balancing community needs.
“Since 2011, YSD has been deeply committed to Sarawak and we are proud to strengthen partnerships with state agencies and local stakeholders.
“Together, we aim to deliver lasting impact – protecting biodiversity, restoring ecosystems and ensuring that conservation efforts benefit both nature and the communities who depend on it,” he said.
YSD is also working with SFC and SD Guthrie in efforts such as tree-planting at Damai Estate in Bintulu.
The initiative involves planting 60,000 endemic and endangered trees across 95ha of degraded land adjacent to Bukit Tiban Forest Reserve, to enhance biodiversity value.
In the field of education, YSD has disbursed RM10.4mil in scholarships and bursaries to Sarawak students, including persons with disabilities and those pursuing technical and vocational education and training.
The YSD Reach Programme has also provided RM1.44mil in back-to-school assistance across Sarawak, supported by “Sekolah Angkat Madani” initiatives in Miri and Bintulu.
In health and community support, YSD has backed HIV intervention and early oral cancer detection programmes in the state.
Preparations are also underway for expanded autism support services via the One-Stop Early Intervention Centre Sarawak.
Currently, 30 early intervention assistants are undergoing training in advance of a new Miri branch opening in mid-2026, expected to benefit more than 1,500 children across the state.
In sports, programmes such as Midnight Football in Serian and Bau, in partnership with Global Peace Foundation Malaysia, are helping to build resilience and leadership among at-risk youths, while YSD supports creative literacy and cultural appreciation among Sarawakian students through partnerships with ASK Dance Company, Kakiseni, and KL Shakespeare Players.
