AEON CO. (M) BHD. is turning up the glow for Mother Nature through its latest collaboration with the Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM) under the “Terang di Hujung Dahan” initiative a long-term effort to restore Kuala Selangor’s famous firefly habitat.
The initiative saw the planting of 100 saplings, 50 rumbia (Metroxylon sagu) and 50 berembang (Sonneratia caseolaris) trees, along the riverbanks. These trees are vital to fireflies, serving as their natural breeding and lighting grounds.
The tree-planting activity on 11 October brought together volunteers from LUAS, MPKS, MPOB, local community groups like Inspirasi KAWA and KONGRES, as well as AEON’s own green warriors.
Among those present were Dr. Ir. Ts. Hj. Mohmad Asari Daud (Director of LUAS), Dr. Kasuma Satria Mat Jadi (Chief Human Resource Officer, AEON), Dato’ Dr. Ismail Hj. Parlan (Director General, FRIM), Tuan Haji Mohd Azmi Sunda (Head of Plantation, MPOB), and Muhammad Asyraf Kamarrazaman representing the President of MPKS.
“This collaboration reflects AEON’s ongoing commitment to protecting biodiversity and preserving the balance of our natural ecosystem,” said Dr. Kasuma Satria.
“We hope this effort brings light not just through the glow of fireflies, but also through a shared sense of responsibility to protect nature for future generations.”
AEON and FRIM’s firefly conservation journey actually began back in 2011 at Tanjung Beluntas involving site clearing, research, tree planting, and maintenance. In 2018, AEON volunteers continued the effort with a CSR project alongside the Selangor State Economic Planning Unit. So far, over 1,000 trees have been planted in Kuala Selangor, helping the firefly population thrive once more.
Dato’ Dr. Ismail Hj. Parlan of FRIM reaffirmed the institute’s commitment to using scientific research to ensure the long-term success of the initiative, praising AEON for its high-impact corporate social responsibility work.
Beyond Kuala Selangor, AEON’s environmental projects continue to expand. From the Malaysia-Japan Friendship Forest launched in 2004 at Paya Indah Wetlands, to the planting of 30,000 trees in Bidor, and a new reforestation project in Segamat scheduled later this year, AEON is keeping the green legacy alive.
Since 1991, AEON has planted over 557,000 trees nationwide, a glowing example of how corporate responsibility can truly light up the world.