Etiqa Offshore Insurance Launches Mangrove Planting Programme To Promote Sustainability

LABUAN, Oct 20 (Bernama) -- Labuan-based Etiqa Offshore Insurance (L) Ltd (EOIL) today reaffirmed its commitment to environmental sustainability with the launch of an advanced Mangrove Education and Planting Programme at the Kina Benuwa Mangrove River, a gazetted permanent forest reserve on the island.

In a statement to Bernama, EOIL said the one-day event, part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, builds on the success of the 2023 Sustainability Education Programme, which took place during Maybank Global CR Day.

The programme was organised in collaboration with Labuan Corporation, the Universiti Malaysia Sabah Alumni and the Sabah Wetlands Conservation Society.

The event brought together 40 primary school students from four Labuan schools: Labuan International School (LIS), Sekolah Kebangsaan Pekan Dua, Sekolah Jenis Kebangsaan Chi Wen and Sekolah Kebangsaan Sungai Bedaun.

Each student planted up to five mangrove saplings, resulting in a total of 200 new trees. 

The initiative aims to support coastal ecosystems and contribute to efforts to mitigate the effects of climate change.

EOIL chairman Datuk Majid Mohamad highlighted that the event underscores EOIL’s dedication to Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles.

He said the initiative not only raises awareness about critical global issues like melting glaciers and rising sea levels, but also provides students with hands-on experience in environmental conservation.

EOIL principal officer Rosfadzilani Ghani attributed the programme's success to the collaborative efforts of government agencies, the education sector and other key stakeholders.

“This project offers students and teachers a chance to turn theory into action, gaining firsthand knowledge about the crucial role of mangroves in combating climate change,” she said.

Rosfadzilani also reaffirmed EOIL’s long-term commitment to sustainability, expressing hope that the programme will inspire lasting environmental stewardship within the community. 

“By engaging schools and local authorities, EOIL aims to foster meaningful change and contribute to global efforts to protect the planet for future generations,” she added.

-- BERNAMA