Hampshire based charity, Orangutan Appeal UK, has welcomed the recent decision by Malaysia’s Plantation and Commodities Minister, Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani, to shelve the ‘orangutan diplomacy’ initiative and instead prioritize the conservation of these critically endangered animals in their natural habitat.
The Minister’s reversal of the earlier proposal, which suggested ‘gifting’ orangutans to palm oil importing nations, has been met with widespread approval from the conservation community.
“We are heartened by the Minister’s decision to focus on orangutan conservation within their natural habitats. This marks an important step towards safeguarding these incredible creatures and their ecosystems. In-situ conservation is vital for the survival of orangutans. This renewed focus offers hope that they will be protected in the wild where they belong,” said Adrienne Powell, Manager at Orangutan Appeal UK.
The government’s focus now lies in maintaining the integrity of orangutan habitats, a mission that resonates deeply with the charity’s longstanding commitment to in-situ conservation.
“Protecting wildlife within their natural environment is essential for their survival. It is this core belief that drives the work we support at Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in Malaysian Borneo,” said Powell.
Orangutans play a critical role in maintaining the health of the rainforest. They disperse seeds and promote biodiversity, ensuring the forest ecosystem remains intact.
However, due to ongoing threats such as deforestation and human-wildlife conflict, orangutans are now classified as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Without immediate and sustained action, the world risks losing these magnificent creatures forever.
Orangutan Appeal UK remains committed to supporting Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and Sabah Wildlife Department in their efforts to rescue, rehabilitate and release orphaned and displaced orangutans back into the wild.
By safeguarding orangutans, the charity is also securing the future of the vital ecosystems that help sustain life on this planet.
For more information about Orangutan Appeal UK’s work or to support their ongoing efforts to protect orangutans, please visit www.orangutan-appeal.org.uk.
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