Forests, Wildlife, and a Bigger Purpose

Reforestation in Sarawak: How SD Guthrie (Guthrie) is restoring peatlands, protecting wildlife habitats, and building a climate-resilient future.

During SD Guthrie International’s (SDGI) participation at the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) 2025, held on 20-22 June, the team visited the Semenggoh Wildlife Centre — a living example of Sarawak’s rich biodiversity and the importance of long-term environmental stewardship.

 

This visit underscored a reminder of what’s at stake in protecting our planet’s heritage. It reminded us all about a simple but powerful truth: reforestation is not just about planting trees – it’s about restoring ecosystems, preserving habitats for wildlife, and securing a more climate-resilient future.

Rehabilitating Sarawak’s Peatlands

In Sarawak, Guthrie is working to rehabilitate 400 hectares of degraded peatland, building on the momentum of its 50-hectare reforestation project initiated in 2024. This is more than a carbon initiative—it’s a holistic approach to ecological recovery.

 

Peatlands are among the world’s most valuable ecosystems, playing a critical role in climate regulation, water storage, and biodiversity. When damaged, they release significant greenhouse gases. Restoring these landscapes strengthens ecosystem services, enhances biodiversity, and helps absorb carbon naturally.

Preserving Habitats for Wildlife

Forests are living systems — home to orangutans, countless other species, and the communities who rely on them. By restoring native plant species and expanding forest cover, Guthrie aims to rebuild the natural homes of countless animal species, ensuring that Sarawak’s forests remain thriving, biodiverse landscapes.

 

Conservation and restoration go hand-in-hand. Protecting habitat protects biodiversity, and in turn, protects the delicate balance that defines healthy ecosystems.

A Science-Based, Purpose-Driven Approach

This reforestation initiative is aligned with Guthrie’s “Beyond Zero” framework in achieving net-zero carbon emissions while contributing meaningfully to environmental regeneration.

 

Our approach is rooted in science and strengthened by partnerships with conservation experts, local communities, and environmental agencies. Together, we are laying the foundation for resilient landscapes that benefit both people and the planet.

A Shared Responsibility

Guthrie team’s visit to Semenggoh served as a reminder: restoring forests is a responsibility we all share. It is a commitment to land, life, and legacy. Through reforestation, we are investing in ecosystems that support biodiversity, regulate climate, and safeguard natural heritage.

In Sarawak, that journey has begun. And it’s only the beginning.

Discover how we’re restoring life to the land. https://www.sdguthrie.com/beyond-zero/restore

#BeyondZero #NotAllPalmOilIsCreatedEqual #SDGI #RWMF #Sarawak

Slow Melt Ice Cream

Staying Cool in the Heat: How Sustainable Palm Fat Powers the Next Generation of Slow-Melt Ice Cream

In warm, tropical markets where enjoying ice cream often ends with a sticky mess, innovation in formulation is more than a luxury, it’s essential. As consumers demand indulgent treats that hold up under heat while delivering great taste and clean labels, SD Guthrie International’s food scientists are rethinking the fats behind frozen desserts.

 

Enter palm oil and palm kernel oil, plant-based ingredients with functional and sensory advantages that are transforming how ice cream performs in the real world, especially in slow-melt formulations.

A Natural Fit for Tropical Climates

Unlike traditional milk fat, which has a softer solid fat structure and a slower melting point, our food scientists have developed a specialty palm kernel-based fat, KK35LT, that offers a distinctive melting profile which supports greater stability in the ice cream matrix. This means the product doesn’t break down as quickly under heat, keeping its shape, and your hands, cleaner for longer.

 

In hot and humid environments like Malaysia or across Southeast Asia, where ambient temperatures frequently challenge cold chain integrity, a slow-melting solution isn’t just desirable—it’s market-relevant. Palm kernel-based fat systems naturally form stable fat networks that help ice cream remain solid longer, reducing melt rate and drip. This makes them ideal for products intended for outdoor enjoyment, mobile vendors, and on-the-go snacking.

Longer Shelf Life, Better Ice Cream

A key advantage of our slow-melt ice cream innovation lies in the use of a naturally stable fat blend with superior oxidative resistance. Traditional milk fat, while creamy and rich, is more prone to oxidation over time, which can impact flavour and overall product quality during storage.

 

In contrast, when using our carefully selected and cleanly processed palm kernel-based fat blend, ice cream formulations are able to leverage the inherent oxidative stability of lauric fats. By combining specific palm kernel fractions in a balanced way, we’ve created a fat system that better protects against flavour degradation and quality loss throughout the cold chain.

 

The result is an ice cream with improved shelf-life performance, delivering consistent flavour and texture over time without the need for excessive additives or heavy processing.

Texture, Taste & Flexibility

While performance is critical, today’s consumers are equally concerned with the sensory experience. Our palm kernel-based fat delivers on that front too. These fats can create an indulgent creaminess similar to that of milk fat, while offering a lighter, cleaner mouthfeel. It also supports a wide range of sensory profiles, from premium dairy-based recipes to vegan and plant-based alternatives, giving brands the flexibility to formulate according to evolving consumer expectations.

 

Equally important is the neutral flavour profile of palm kernel oil, which makes it an ideal carrier for even the most delicate flavour notes. Whether working with subtle vanilla, floral infusions, or sophisticated tropical blends, it allows flavour to shine without interference or masking.

Supporting Innovation with Technical Expertise

At SD Guthrie, we work closely with manufacturers to refine their formulations for optimal performance in challenging climates. Our food scientists partner with clients to customise fat systems that address key pain points; from fast melting to unstable textures, ensuring product success across both traditional and emerging market segments.

 

In particular, our palm kernel-based fat has proven to be a strategic choice for brands looking to improve melt resistance, oxidative stability, and overall product longevity. So, whether you’re developing indulgent cones, novelty bars, or family-sized tubs, our palm solutions can help your ice cream stand up to the heat and stand out in the market.

Creating plant-based frozen treats that don’t compromise on taste or performance?

Partner with us to explore palm-based, dairy-free solutions that melt slower, taste creamier, and deliver a clean-label experience—perfect for the conscious consumer.

 

For enquiries, please contact: [email protected]

#PlantBasedInnovation #DairyFree #PalmOilSolutions #VeganIceCream #SlowMeltIceCream #FoodTech #CleanLabel #SDGuthrieInternational #SustainableSolutions #NotAllPalmOilIsCreatedEqual

#DadJokeOff – Make Dad Proud This Father’s Day!

Think you’ve inherited your dad’s legendary sense of humour? Now’s your chance to put it to the test!

We’re celebrating Father’s Day with the #SDGIDadJokeOff, and we want to hear your best dad jokes — the kind that earns an eye roll and a laugh.

How to Enter

  1. Visit SD Guthrie International’s official Facebook or Instagram page at @sdguthrieinternational
  2. Like and follow our pages.
  3. Look for our Dad Joke Off contest post.
  4. Share your best dad joke in the comments section of the contest post.
  5. Include the hashtag #SDGIDadJokeOff
  6. Five random winners will be selected to receive a mystery Father’s Day gift box, specially curated to celebrate dads and their one-of-a-kind humour.

Contest Deadline

Contest ends 22 June 2025, 11:59PM (GMT+8).
Winners will be announced on the contest post comments on 29 June 2025. Please note that prizes must be claimed by 15 July 2025. Any unclaimed prizes after this date will be forfeited and no further requests will be entertained.

Terms & Conditions

Click here to view full contest T&Cs.

#JustLikeMum : This Mother’s Day, we’re turning the spotlight on mum — through you.

Think you’ve mastered your mum’s iconic look? Her signature sayings? Or the way she juggles a hundred things at once? Now’s your time to shine.

 

Join our #JustLikeMum contest by showing off your best impersonation of mum — and stand a chance to win her something special!

How to Enter

  1. Record a short video (max 60 seconds) of yourself doing your best impression of your mum — it could be her favourite saying, the way she talks, or even dressing up like her.
  2. Use any language – just make sure to include English subtitles.
  3. Post it on Instagram or Facebook (make sure your account is set to public).
  4. Tag us @sdguthrieinternational and use the hashtag #JustLikeMum.
  5. In your caption, add a short line about what inspired your impersonation.
  6. The 10 most entertaining entries will win a gift for mum and themselves too!

Contest Deadline

Contest ends 6 June 2025, 11:59PM (GMT+8)
Winners will be contacted directly via Instagram Direct Message or Facebook Messenger and announced shortly after.

Terms & Conditions

Click here to view full contest T&Cs.

Let’s celebrate mums in the most heartwarming, hilarious way possible – by being #JustLikeMum

SDGI’s Battle of the Bands 2024: A Night of Unmatched Energy and Talent

The highly anticipated SDGI Battle of the Bands 2024 took center stage on 26th October 2024 at KLPAC, marking its third edition with resounding success. The event showcased the incredible talents of 10 bands representing our global business units, captivating an audience of 500 attendees on-site and an impressive 2,539 viewers via livestream.

Adding to the night’s excitement were special performances from the acclaimed band An Honest Mistake and a unique internal band featuring members of the SD Guthrie management team.

A standout moment was the Crowd’s Favourite voting, with 7,390 votes cast in just 25 minutes. Congratulations to KC Band, who earned the title with an impressive 2,068 votes!

SD Guthrie International Named Global Company of the Year at Globoil India 2024

SD Guthrie International (SDGI) was proudly recognised as the Global Company of the Year at the 27th edition of Globoil India, solidifying our leadership in the global edible oil market. This prestigious award underscores our ongoing commitment to excellence and innovation.


Alongside this award, we celebrate Mr. Sandeep Bhan, CEO of SD Guthrie International Trading Private Limited, for receiving the prestigious Globoil Icon Award for Leadership in the Global Edible Oil Sector.

The 2024 Globoil India event also spotlighted the groundbreaking advancements that are reshaping the industry, emphasized the critical role of sustainability in driving the future of the sector, and examined the rapidly changing dynamics within the global market.

SDGI Soup Kitchen CSR Programme

SDGI recently joined hands with The Assembly Soup Kitchen (TASK) to support vulnerable communities in Bandar Sunway and Puchong. Our dedicated volunteers prepared and distributed meals, along with essential groceries, to refugees, the elderly, and those in need.

This initiative reflects SDGI’s unwavering commitment to corporate social responsibility as we strive to achieve our ambitious goal of 1.75 million volunteer hours.

SD Guthrie International Shares Ramadan Cheer with Orphans

On 6th April 2023, SD Guthrie International hosted a Buka Puasa dinner for residents of the Pusat Jagaan Cahaya Kasih Bestari orphanage in conjunction with the holy month of Ramadan.

 

In the spirit of unity, generosity and compassion, which are the core values supported by SDO’s Culture of Care, SDO presented a special contribution cheque amounting to RM15,000 to the orphanage as well as RM2,500 worth of Duit Raya to its residents during the event.

 

The residents of the orphanage and other guests were also presented with special goodie bags which included tote bags and notebooks with illustrations designed by a talented local artist, Abdul Rashid Mohd Noor as part of our support for the local arts and community scene.

 

Also included in the goodie bags are animal plushies that were made to signify our partnership with Zoo Negara Malaysia for the past three years in support of animal conservation.

People of SDO Series: International Women’s Day Special

For International Women’s Day, we bring you this special episode from the People of SDO series where we asked Ms Tan Ting Min, the only female Board Member of SD Guthrie International about her challenges as a successful woman in the industry.

 

Hosted by Madam Renaka Ramachandran, the Deputy Managing Director of SD Guthrie International herself, Ms. Tan Ting Min shared her insights on a variety of topics, including her personal experiences and achievements in the industry. One of the questions asked was how she balances her time between being a mother and a successful career woman. Ms. Tan Ting Min emphasised the importance of having a supportive family and workplace, as well as prioritising tasks and being efficient with time management.

 

Overall, the interview was a powerful testament to the strength and resilience of women in the industry, and a reminder of the important contributions they make to their workplaces and communities. Happy International Women’s Day!

A Fun-filled Day At The Zoo With SD Guthrie International

The Zoo Quest, a collaborative event between SD Guthrie International (SDO) and Zoo Negara Malaysia, was held on October 29, 2022, as the finale of the Get Moving Challenge 2.0 (GMC 2.0) event.

 

A total of 245 participants were invited on a 2-hour treasure hunt for prizes worth RM8,500 where winners were determined by speed and accuracy in completing challenges. Teams of three competed against each other through a series of fun trivia quizzes and activities as they explored Zoo Negara while learning about all of its fascinating inhabitants.

 

The event aimed to raise awareness of the current zoo plight post-Covid-19, in line with the GMC 2.0 objectives of promoting community engagement, and positive well-being amongst its personnel. Partaking in the event encouraged participants to develop healthy lifestyle habits while furthering their understanding of the current environmental situation. SDO hopes that future events will continue to inspire its participants.