A Collaborative Effort for a Sustainable Future
Nestlé Malaysia has taken significant strides in ocean conservation through its 2025 Coastal and Underwater Clean-Up initiative. This program, in partnership with Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT), the Fisheries Development Authority of Malaysia (LKIM), and the local fishing community at Pantai Tok Jembal, embodies the spirit of environmental stewardship and community engagement. By mobilizing over 350 volunteers, including Nestlé employees, UMT students, and LKIM representatives, the initiative aims to address plastic pollution solutions while promoting marine conservation.
Tackling Plastic Pollution and Supporting Communities
The collaborative efforts of this initiative are crucial in tackling the pressing issue of plastic pollution in Malaysia's coastal waters. Volunteers, with the support of the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency, undertook the challenging task of removing ghost nets from seabeds, cleaning shorelines, and repairing fishing huts. In addition to physical clean-up efforts, essential provisions were provided to the fishing community, highlighting the importance of supporting those whose livelihoods depend on healthy marine ecosystems.
Insights from Leadership and Research
Mr. Juan Aranols, Chief Executive Officer of Nestlé Malaysia, emphasized the company’s commitment to creating shared value through sustainable practices. He stated, “Our commitment to achieving plastic neutrality drives us to collaborate with local stakeholders to eliminate plastic waste and promote sustainable practices. This partnership in Terengganu reflects our dedication to marine conservation while supporting communities reliant on these ecosystems.”
The role of UMT in this initiative has been pivotal, with the institution providing strategic planning, dive coordination, and marine waste analysis. Prof. Madya Dr. Yusof Shuaib Ibrahim from the Microplastic Research Interest Group (MRIG-UMT) remarked on the significance of this collaboration, stating, “By eliminating ghost nets and marine debris, we are not only restoring marine ecosystems but also positively impacting the livelihoods of local fishing communities.”
Ongoing Commitment to Environmental Stewardship
Beyond the efforts in Terengganu, an additional 190 Nestlé employee volunteers participated in clean-up activities at various locations, including Pantai Kelanang (Selangor), Pantai Teluk Senangin (Perak), and Pantai Tanjung Aru (Sabah). These collective efforts reflect the company’s ongoing commitment to addressing plastic pollution at scale. Approximately 2 tonnes of waste were collected during the 2025 Coastal and Underwater Clean-Up event, contributing to the nearly 17 tonnes of marine waste removed from Malaysian shores since the initiative's inception in 2019.
Nestlé Sayang Komuniti (formerly known as Nestlé Cares) serves as a vital platform for empowering employees in environmental volunteering and community engagement. Through partnerships with local communities and environmental organizations, Nestlé Malaysia continues to promote sustainability and resilient livelihoods amidst evolving environmental challenges.
This Coastal and Underwater Clean-Up initiative stands as a testament to the power of collaboration in ocean conservation. By engaging in environmental stewardship and addressing plastic pollution solutions, the company not only contributes to marine conservation but also strengthens the bonds within local communities. The commitment to environmental volunteering and sustainable practices ensures a healthier future for both the oceans and the communities that depend on them.
