A Malaysian Thanksgiving for Antonia

I have received a few messages from Antonia but over all the internet in Malaysia is not very reliable.  We are truly lucky to have quick access to the internet here in the states.  From what I have gathered Antonia sounds like she is having an amazing trip, meeting lots of new friends, and learning a LOT!  I can not wait to see all her pictures and videos when she returns. 

Antonia attended the two day Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) conference and here is a quick note from her on the conference:

It was great to see over 900 world-wide delegates working together to find solutions to a complex problem. However after a quick reflection, the wildlife topic was hardly mentioned and health issues were not even touched upon.  I am not disappointed with what the RSPO is doing.  I think trying to get companies and small holders to use better practices when planting oil palms is a great start. But I came with somebody as my inspiration, Ibu our female orangutan, especially when celebrating the International Orangutan Caring Days, now my inspiration is even stronger.  As Paulo Fraire said, “to give voice to the voiceless.”  Upon my return, expect better programs and activities to celebrate the value of plants and animals and to provoke changes, behaviors, knowledge and attitudes that will help ensure a positive future for people, wildlife and wild places.
I am ready to continue my adventure!

Antonia also mentioned that at the conference were delegates representing 80 families evicted from their lands by big palm oil companies. They came to the RSPO conference looking for solutions for their problems.  It must have been very powerful to witness all of these people fighting for their land. 

Here are some pictures from Antonia's adventures:


Antonia checking out the native Durian fruit.  She didn't mention if she liked the smelly fruit!



This is where Antonia spent her Thanksgiving 2011, a small village East Sabah, Malaysia.



Red and yellow watermelons = yummy!



The durian fruits.  People and Orangutans enjoy this fruit.

Antonia is now back in Kuala Lumpur and is embarking on a journey to find some tropical rain forest!  She says that there is not much left as most of it has been overtaken by palm oil plantations.  Very sad. 
At this very moment right now Antonia could be watching a wild orangutan!  My fingers are crossed for her and I hope she captures them on film.


Naima
Education Specialist