UNIQLO Strengthens Environmental Commitment with RM200,000 Donation to Global Environment Centre 

Third consecutive year of funding conservation efforts through in-store paper bag proceeds

Global apparel retailer UNIQLO strengthens its commitment to environmental conservation with a RM200,000 donation to the Global Environment Centre (GEC) supporting mangrove rehabilitation efforts in Malaysia. This marks the third consecutive year that UNIQLO has channelled proceeds from its paper shopping bag charge towards environmental conservation initiatives, reinforcing its long-term commitment to protecting natural ecosystems.

In collaboration with GEC, the contribution will fund the protection of the coastline in Mersing, Johor, through the installation of wave breakers to strengthen coastal resilience, as well as the restoration of one hectare of degraded mangrove forest in Kampung Tenglu Laut. The project will reduce the risk of flooding and erosion especially during the East Coast Monsoon season, where the area is vulnerable to strong waves.

 “At UNIQLO, we always seek to contribute meaningfully to our local communities as a way to give back. As we celebrate UNIQLO’s 15th anniversary in Malaysia, we continue to strengthen our long-term commitment to environmental awareness, preservation, and sustainability. Over the past three years, proceeds from our paper bag initiative have been directed toward meaningful conservation projects across the country. This year, we are proud to support GEC’s critical work in rehabilitating mangroves, natural barriers that not only protect coastal communities from floods but also support biodiversity. Our aim is to create a lasting positive impact for both people and the planet,” said Dawn Chow, Director of Sustainability and Corporate Public Relations, UNIQLO Malaysia.

Faizal Parish, Director of GEC, said “We are grateful for UNIQLO’s support towards our rehabilitation efforts, and its broader commitment to raising environmental awareness. Partnerships with corporations like UNIQLO support our ongoing efforts to rehabilitate local mangrove ecosystems and foster effective cooperation among various stakeholders. These partnerships also enable us to engage local communities in raising awareness of the importance of mangrove protection, while also enhancing community capacity through knowledge transfer and active participation in conservation efforts.”

The donation will support a range of activities, including site preparation, construction of a 100-meter wave breaker to strengthen coastal protection, mangrove tree planting to rehabilitate one hectare of degraded forest, maintenance, monitoring, and community engagement initiatives to ensure the long-term success of the rehabilitation project. Community action will include mobilising the community members to construct the wave breaker, establish a community mangrove nursery and plant and maintain the mangrove seedlings. The project will also enhance the awareness of the importance of conserving coastal forests and mangroves to protect communities from storms and climate change.

This year marks UNIQLO’s 15th anniversary in Malaysia, a milestone underscoring its long-standing commitment to sustainable innovation and local impact. From protecting the environment to uplifting communities, UNIQLO continues to integrate sustainability and social responsibility into its business in Malaysia.

Since 2020, UNIQLO introduced responsibly harvested, Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified paper shopping bags. The RM0.30 charge for paper bags in stores is part of UNIQLO’s broader efforts to reduce the use of single-use plastic materials and encourage eco-conscious shopping behaviours. Customers are also encouraged to bring their own reusable bags when shopping at UNIQLO stores to further contribute to a greener future. 

In previous years, proceeds from the paper bag charge have supported reforestation efforts at Taman Tugu and the Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM), helping to preserve urban green spaces and promote biodiversity. UNIQLO has also renewed its partnership with Taman Tugu to support programmes such as the Plant Giveaway and Plant & Hunt programmes, which encourage families and communities to engage in sustainability-focused activities and reduce their carbon footprint.

For more information about UNIQLO and its sustainability initiatives, please visit www.uniqlo.com/my.   

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