Protecting Malaysia’s Rainforests

What the project does.

This project focuses on protecting and restoring 83,381 hectares of tropical rainforest in Sabah, Malaysia, preventing deforestation and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The land was previously designated for commercial logging, which, without intervention, would have resulted in the release of approximately 16.3 million tCO₂e between 2016 and 2045. Through improved forest management, the initiative conserves vital ecosystems, enhances carbon sequestration, and promotes sustainable development for local communities.

By preventing logging and deforestation, the project avoids 543,049 tCO₂e emissions annually while safeguarding a critical biodiversity corridor that supports endangered species. Beyond its environmental impact, it contributes to local economic growth by creating sustainable job opportunities and improving access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and clean water. In doing so, the project aligns with Malaysia’s biodiversity conservation strategies and global climate commitments, fostering a more sustainable and resilient future for both people and nature.

Poverty reduction and sustainable livelihoods for local peoples

The project has a strong commitment to environmental and sustainable development that benefit local communities through the following contributions:

What it supports.

• Avoids 16,291,488 tCO₂e over 30 years by halting deforestation
• Protects 83,381 hectares of forest from commercial logging
• Supports biodiversity conservation, benefiting endangered species such as orangutans, elephants, and hornbills
• Enhances carbon sequestration through natural forest regeneration
• Provides 900 people with improved livelihoods through sustainable economic activities
• Enhances healthcare access for 900 individuals, including 457 women
• Improves water quality and access for 900 people in local communities
• Expands access to education, benefiting at least 100 students
• Creates at least 40 jobs in forest conservation and patrolling
• Ensures 50% of employment opportunities go to women
• Supports local training programs for 500 people, including 300 women