Malaysia plans ‘orangutan diplomacy’ in palm oil pitch

• Malaysia has said it plans to start an “orangutan diplomacy” programme for countries that buy its palm oil.

Key highlights

• The Southeast Asian nation is the world’s second biggest producer of the edible oil after Indonesia
  • but critics say the mass development of the industry has fuelled deforestation and destroyed the habitat of critically endangered orangutans
  • and other emblematic species in one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots.

Use of Animals in Diplomacy:

• Animals as Symbols: Leaders have used animals for centuries to represent their country's values.
  • For example, dogs symbolized loyalty, horses meant power, and ermines conveyed purity.
• China's Cuddly Ambassadors: The giant panda is a prime example. China has used these adorable creatures to build better relationships with other countries, even during difficult times.
• Malaysia's Orangutan Offer: Similar to China's panda diplomacy, Malaysia proposed gifting orangutans to improve their image abroad, especially concerning palm oil production which is criticized for harming the environment.
• Ethical concern: Most importantly, this practice raises ethical concerns.
• We need to think carefully about how these animals are treated and whether using them for diplomacy is fair.

Prelims takeaway

• orangutan