Project RELeaf: Nestlé Malaysia Strengthens Commitment to Sustainable Forests

KUALA LUMPUR (Jan 6): Nestlé Malaysia has reached a remarkable milestone in its sustainability journey, successfully completing Project RELeaf by planting 3 million trees nationwide, covering approximately 1,650 hectares since 2021. Combined with the earlier Project RiLeaf in Sabah, this brings the total to an impressive 4 million trees.

As the nation’s largest private-sector reforestation initiative, Nestlé’s efforts underscore its unwavering commitment to restoring forests, protecting Malaysia’s rich ecosystems, and supporting the Government’s “Greening Malaysia” initiative to plant 100 million trees.

This achievement was made possible through strong partnerships with the Forestry Department of Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah Wildlife Department, Malaysian Nature Society and plantation partners including SD Guthrie, TDM Plantation, IOI Plantation, Sabah Softwoods, Sawit Kinabalu and Ikhasas.

“Project RELeaf embodies our conviction that businesses must play an active role in safeguarding the environment for future generations,” said Juan Aranols, CEO of Nestlé Malaysia.

“Reaching this milestone is a proud moment in our ESG journey and fuels our determination to do even more. While Malaysia’s forest cover currently stands at 54%, above the national target of 50%, it remains vital to preserve and restore these precious ecosystems. Building on this momentum, we are launching the next phase to plant another 3 million trees over the next five years, working hand in hand with our partners and communities to strengthen biodiversity and support Malaysia’s climate ambitions.”

Guided by the three “Rs” which are REforest, REstore and REspect, Project RELeaf forms part of Nestlé’s global Forest Positive strategy, addressing deforestation risks and fostering environmental resilience.

In Malaysia, the initiative focuses on restoring riparian zones and wildlife corridors, supporting endangered species such as orangutans, proboscis monkeys and Malayan tigers.

The project prioritises native tree species including Tropical Almond Trees (Ketapang), Bintangor Laut, Bongkol, Pulai and Sentang, which enhance biodiversity, stabilise soil, and restore riparian habitats.

Over the next decade, these restored landscapes are projected to remove up to 700,000 tonnes of carbon, supporting Malaysia’s transition to a low-carbon future.

A key aspect of Project RELeaf is its community-driven approach. Through partnerships with local farming and orang asli communities in Kinabatangan, Sabah and Peninsular Malaysia, Nestlé has provided training, tools, and resources for seedling production and planting.

To date, more than 90 communities have participated in seedling cultivation, while 120 communities have engaged in reforestation activities, generating additional income and fostering environmental stewardship.

En. Hasidin Bin Ahmit, Ketua Komuniti Anak Pokok Kinabatangan (KAPOK), Kg. Perpaduan, shared, “Being part of Project RELeaf has transformed our community’s future. The training and support have taught us to cultivate indigenous seedlings, improved our livelihoods, and given us a sense of security. Most importantly, we know our work today will restore forests and protect wildlife, ensuring future generations can thrive. We look forward to continuing this journey together.”

Looking ahead, Nestlé Malaysia is set to continue its reforestation efforts under Project RELeaf2030, aiming to plant another 3 million trees by 2030.

The next phase will also accelerate agroforestry and regenerative agriculture, integrating forest and fruit trees into cocoa and coffee farms to enhance crop resilience, diversify farmers’ income, and restore healthier ecosystems.

Through Project RELeaf, Nestlé Malaysia continues to demonstrate that sustainable business practices and community development can go hand in hand while creating shared value for the environment, society and future generations.