Controversy over the 122,798 hectares of forest reserve in the Ulu Muda Forest Reserve in Kedah can be resolved if we think out of the box. Perhaps we don’t need to choose; it is not an either-or situation, we just need to figure out a new model where trees can stay, and humans get fed too.

In fact, one could go one stage further to suggest how we can develop a management model where we can maximise the value creation of this valuable heritage. It is desirable for Malaysia to keep as much of its natural rainforest. These rainforests reserve are a key remaining source of Malaysia’s competitiveness in the world today.

Indeed, contrary to the conventional thinking, we can devise a solution where we can protect the trees and yet derive income for development. All over the world, environmentalists and natives fight over choices as though there is no way to have the cake and eat it too.