Nature extinction has become one of the major concern in today’s date. It has spread all over the world. Countries have adapted themselves to different new policies to preserve all these endangered species as well as ecosystem. Recently, Malaysia made a headline by preserving its policies to handle ‘Orangutan’ an iconic and endangered species found in the country.
The original policy named “Orangutan diplomacy” plan was introduced by Malaysia’s Plantation and Commodities Minister named Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani which was inspired by China’s successful “panda diplomacy” where the country sends pandas to foreign zoos as a symbol of goodwill. The “Orangutan diplomacy” was started to improve Malaysia’s international image, particularly regarding its form oil industry; thus possessing broader strategy.
The Controversial “Orangutan Diplomacy” Plan:
Malaysia initiated this policy in reference to China successful “Panda diplomacy”. In a similar vein, Malaysia plan to send orangutan abroad to countries that import Malaysian palm oil. This idea was having broad perspective as they wanted to use these animals as ambassador highlighting Malaysia’s commitment to preserve nature ecosystem and wildlife. Also simultaneously building good relations with trading partners.
Source: The Hindu
This idea came up when palm oil industry faced and increasing international pressure. The European Union imposed strict regulations and banned palm oil imports which was linked to deforestation. Malaysia by introducing this act hoped to counteract the negative perceptions and demonstrated their commitment towards preserving biodiversity and nature.A step was taken to improve their natural status.
Opposition from conservation groups:
When the proposal was assigned, it was not accepted neither in Malaysia nor internationally as it met with white spread criticism from environmental activist and conservationists. They are give that while sending orangutan to new abroad place can harm their habitat and chances are to be increased to endanger the animals. Their concern was true as orangutans are highly sensitive to changes in their environment and a sudden change in the environment can lead to stress, illness and even death. Orangutan will not be able to adapt their environment as it can cause disrupcy within themselves.
Source:World Wildlife Care
They proposed different ideas instead of orangutan diplomacy. Some suggested that instead of relocating, the Malaysian government should concentrate on preserving and rehabilitating the Orangutan natural habitats. By applying these plan, it would temporarily ease international pressure but it wouldn’t solve underlying issues of survival. Therefore, the plan needs to be changed and modified a bit so that it can be suitable according to the animal .
The decision to reverse the policy: A Revised Approach
The decision for Orangutan to live with the natural habitat have mark the significant approach in Malaysia’s wildlife conservation. The government aims to address habitat preservation and funding international stakeholders by addressing the Welfare of the orangutan and environmental concerns associated with palm oil production. This has paved a new way and opened up new transformation. It has led commitment from the Malaysian government to take a halt on deforestation and increase the country’s forest cover above 50%. Currently, Malaysia is having 54% per forest yet it needs to be increased so that survival of any species or Orangutan shouldn’t be affected.
Source: Smithsonian’s National Zoo
The importance of Global Cooperation:
Malaysia has revised its policies for having global co-operation to tackle environmental challenges as for success of the event it is compulsory. By implementing this, Malaysia is encouraging a more sustainable and collaborative approach to conservation and also provide a strong message to other international communities and organisation to engage with. Each and every country should take a step like Malaysia and try to improve their natural beauty of their country .
