Malaysia's Orangutan Diplomacy | 27 Aug 2024

Source: IE

Recently, Malaysia has withdrawn its proposal to gift ape species orangutans to countries that import Malaysian palm oil, inspired by China's "panda diplomacy."

Instead, the new plan invites importers to "sponsor" orangutans, with the funds going towards their conservation in Malaysia.
Malaysia, the second-largest palm oil producer (after Indonesia) is facing pressure to make its palm oil industry more sustainable due to its links to deforestation, which threatens orangutan habitats.
About Orangutan (Pongo): The Malay word orangutan means "person of the forest."
- These are highly intelligent, long-haired, orangish primates found only in Borneo and Sumatra.
- There are 3 species: Bornean, Sumatran, and Tapanuli.
- They have long arms and gripping hands and feet for moving through trees, eating fruit, and playing a key role in seed dispersal.
- Unlike other great apes, they are more solitary and communicate primarily through facial expressions and body language. They are endangered due to rapid deforestation, largely driven by palm oil plantations.
- IUCN Status: Critically Endangered
Recently, Malaysia and India have upgraded their existing Enhanced Strategic Partnership to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.