Al Jazeera Shines the Spotlight on Oud as Asia Plantation Capital Plays its Part

HONG KONG, March 19, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- In a series of programmes including a featured documentary, international broadcaster and news network, Al Jazeera, has focused its attention on the magical substance known variously as agarwood, gaharu and Oud.

Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160319/345996
Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160319/345997
Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160319/345998

An integral part of the religious and cultural lives of millions of people, Oud is renowned for its health-giving properties, remarkable fragrance and ability to promote peace of mind. As such, it is highly sought after, with demand currently far outstripping supply, and creating an illegal trade with an attendant black market.

Asia Plantation Capital is recognised as one of the world's leading sustainable plantation companies, and has brought the species of Aquilaria tree (from which Oud is derived) back from the brink of extinction. Asia Plantation Capital has injected millions of dollars into the relevant research and development that has produced proprietorial technologies designed to both reintroduce the species to its natural habitat, and develop a sustainable and ethical business.

In his featured documentary, Al Jazeera's Ali Mohamed Al-Woozain takes us on a personal journey of discovery that he describes as both "dark" and "beautiful", charting his relationship with Oud from childhood. In an excellent piece of investigative journalism, Ali bores into the heart of a trade that dates back thousands of years, which has now fallen prey to greed and nefarious activities.

The message is very clear. Demand for Oud and all its various by-products has never been higher, while supplies are getting evermore scarce. The need to address the situation has become an imperative, and Asia Plantation Capital is displaying its commitment to providing an ethical and sustainable source of Oud to an avid market.

Ali Mohamed Al-Woozain's documentary highlights the current state of a multi-billion-dollar industry that is shrouded in myth and mystery for many people. As a Qatari himself, Oud has always been a part of his life in both cultural and religious rituals, and yet he admits to having little knowledge as to its source. His awakening and enlightenment is one he shares with viewers on a fascinating journey of discovery that takes him all over the world, including Malaysia, and a visit to one of Asia Plantation Capital's plantations.