SDPL identifies with Muslim communities
The Management of Sime Darby Liberia (SDPL) visits several mosques, donating food as a way of identifying with Muslim communities in the country. Muslims here are observing a month-long fast and prayers which is part of their religious obligations.
The company distributed rice to both community dwellers and Muslims. The distribution was carried out in 20 communities in the concession areas. Making the distribution last week, Acting General Manager, Hj. Alikamal Abu Hassan said, “It is SDPL’s Corporate Social Responsibility to the Muslim communities within our operating areas.”
He added that the company remains committed in addressing needs of people in whatever way possible, so as to better their lives.“It is our way of identifying and sharing with our Muslims communities within our concession areas. We believe that following this month-long process, it is about time that we recognize the efforts of these people because we believe in religious tolerance,” Hassan said.
SDPL signed a 63-year concession agreement with the Liberian government for the development of oil palm and rubber. According to the agreement, the government is to help provide the land. But the company has not expanded beyond 10,000 hecters of land due to the slowness of government in providing the land.
However, due to good relations with communities in Bomi and Grand Cape Mount counties, they are working closely with SDPL to ensure that it meets its target. This, citizens in the concession areas said cannot be done alone without support of central government.
