Malaysian Ambassador Urges Companies To Drive Sustainable Future For Palm Oil Industry
From Mohd Iswandi Kasan Anuar
JAKARTA, Dec 5 (Bernama) -- Malaysia’s Ambassador to Indonesia, Datuk Syed Md Hasrin Tengku Hussin, has urged Malaysian government-linked companies and major businesses in Indonesia to use their collective expertise to create a brighter future for the palm oil industry as an economic driver and a model for sustainable development.
He said the palm oil industry has been crucial to Malaysia’s nation-building and achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), contributing to economic growth, poverty alleviation, rural development, food security, and alternative energy.
“Yet, the industry has been subject to many challenges - negative campaigns and disinformation such as deforestation and disappearance of orangutans and tigers,” he said at the Palm Oil Insight Forum 2024: Bridging Sustainability, Innovation, and Market Strategies.
The event was organised by the embassy in partnership with the Council of Palm Oil Producing Countries (CPOPC) held at the Malaysian Embassy complex in South Jakarta, here today.
Syed Md Hasrin also emphasised the importance of addressing the European Union’s Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) as a significant challenge, urging industry players to align strategies that ensure compliance while protecting the livelihoods of millions dependent on the sector.
On the growing potential of palm oil in producing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), he pointed out that the industry has a unique opportunity to position itself as a leader in biofuel innovation, thus contributing to the global transition to greener energy sources.
The ambassador also highlighted the importance of strengthening bilateral cooperation between Malaysia and Indonesia, with both nations sharing the responsibility through the CPOPC to promote sustainability and resilience in the industry.
“Enhanced collaboration can amplify our collective voice on the international stage,” he added.
As sustainability is no longer optional but rather, is a critical necessity for the industry’s future, Syed Md Hasrin also called for the continued promotion of rigorous sustainability standards to ensure the sector’s long-term viability.
-- BERNAMA