APL Logistics is a leading provider of order management solutions, managing one of the largest Flow Center facilities in Vietnam and Southeast Asia. Its mission is to design, build, and implement innovative, profitable and sustainable solutions. It also has a strong desire to contribute to the communities in which its operates and the event was a great opportunity to support the people and environment across Vietnam.

Mission accomplished – APL Logistics teams from Vietnam, the United States, and Singapore

Planting mangrove trees

Over 200 mangrove seedlings were planted by an APL Logistics delegation in My Long Nam commune; however, the whole project will include over 2,500 trees. The seedlings will grow over the next three to four years under watchful eyes to ensure their survival and the contribution to the environment. The mangrove ecosystem is one of the most important ones on the earth. Mangrove forests help prevent erosion and also ensure the livelihood of those who live off the land.

Khoo Seng Thiam, APL Logistics vice president of the Southeast region, was invited to say a few words and spoke about current problems Earth is facing due to climate change, not least of which is the flooding happening around the world and extreme weather. He spoke of the responsibility of all to make positive impacts into the environment, and how APL Logistics is proud to invest in the communities it lives and works in.

The chairman of My Long Nam People’s Committee also welcomed APL Logistics and shared how he was born and grew up on the very street the planting event was taking place. He emphasised how important the mangrove is to Vietnam and the community. He honoured APL Logistics with an appreciation award expressing thankfulness for international friends who were investing in the local environment and supporting the education of students.

Maruyama Takayuki, chief financial officer at APL Logistics

Scholarships for students

In addition, APL Logistics also awarded students from local schools with scholarships to continue their education and achieve their goals. There was great support from the local community as they came to witness the presentation, with a group of My Long Nam elementary students sharing their joy by dancing to a popular children’s song. Scholarships were awarded to needy students attending the seventh, eighth and ninth grade. Just like the trees will grow into maturity in the next three to four years, APL is excited to support these students as they too will be heading into university in that time to make a lasting impact on their own families and communities.

Students receive scholarships from senior APL Logistics leaders

A fun quiz was offered to the students and participants, now let’s see how well you would do!

What is the most important part of the mangrove tree for reducing erosion?

• Roots
• Trunk
• Branches
• Flowers

Fun facts about mangroves

• Their above-ground roots slow down water flows and encourage sediment deposits that reduce coastal erosion.
• Mangrove forests are known as nursery habitats because they are home to many young species, creating a safe place for them to grow.
• They also store 3 to 4 times more carbon than the forests found on land.