MPOGCF, SOP Forge Landmark MoU To Integrate Biodiversity Conservation In Oil Palm Sector

MIRI, May 9 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Palm Oil Green Conservation Foundation (MPOGCF) and Sarawak Oil Palms Bhd (SOP) have formalised a landmark partnership with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), marking a significant step forward in the integration of biodiversity conservation within Malaysia’s oil palm sector. 

The signing ceremony, held on Thursday, was attended by senior representatives from both organisations and symbolised a shared commitment to environmental stewardship—particularly through joint efforts to safeguard High Conservation Value (HCV) areas within SOP’s plantation landscapes.

In a statement, MPOGCF said the MoU was signed by its general manager Hairulazim Mahmud and SOP chief operating officer Eric Kiu Kwong Seng. It was witnessed by Ministry of Plantation and Commodities secretary-general and MPOGCF Board of Trustees chairman, Datuk Yusran Shah Mohd Yusof, alongside SOP group chief executive officer Paul Wong Hee Kwong.

The MoU reflects MPOGCF’s dedication to placing conservation and biodiversity at the core of sustainable plantation management. 

“Notably, SOP is the first oil palm company from Sarawak to establish this level of collaboration with MPOGCF. We are proud to take this historic step together and hopeful it will inspire more companies in the state to adopt responsible oil palm practices,” said Yusran Shah. 

As part of the partnership, MPOGCF and SOP will undertake a scientific expedition in Murum, Sarawak. This initiative aims to document and analyse biodiversity in HCV zones adjacent to plantation areas, evaluate strategies to enhance wildlife corridors, preserve ecosystems, and support local community livelihoods, all the while maintaining agricultural productivity. 

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“This initiative aims to capture the rich biodiversity found across SOP’s plantation landscapes and surrounding HCV zones,” he added. 

Meanwhile, Kiu reiterated SOP’s commitment to sustainable growth, stressing that responsible oil palm production must go beyond regulatory compliance. 

“This partnership reaffirms SOP’s unwavering commitment to responsible oil palm practices. 

“As we continue to grow, we must also deepen our environmental stewardship. Working together with MPOGCF enables us to apply scientific knowledge, foster collaboration and translate our sustainability goals into real, on-the-ground impact. It’s not just about compliance -- it’s about creating a legacy of care for future generations,” he added.  

-- BERNAMA