JAKARTA: 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 highlighted the industry’s critical role in Malaysia’s nation-building and its contribution to achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including economic growth, poverty alleviation, rural development, food security, and alternative energy.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Syed Md Hasrin addressed the challenges facing the palm oil industry, such as negative campaigns and disinformation regarding deforestation and the disappearance of orangutans and tigers. He spoke at the Palm Oil Insight Forum 2024: Bridging Sustainability, Innovation, and Market Strategies, organized by the Malaysian Embassy in partnership with the Council of Palm Oil Producing Countries (CPOPC) at the Malaysi
an Embassy complex in South Jakarta.
Syed Md Hasrin emphasized the importance of tackling the European Union’s Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) as a significant challenge. He urged industry players to align their strategies to ensure compliance while protecting the livelihoods of millions dependent on the sector. He also pointed to the growing potential of palm oil in producing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), presenting an opportunity for the industry to lead in biofuel innovation and contribute to the global transition to greener energy sources.
Furthermore, the ambassador underscored the importance of strengthening bilateral cooperation between Malaysia and Indonesia. Both nations share the responsibility through the CPOPC to promote sustainability and resilience in the industry. He noted that enhanced collaboration could amplify their collective voice on the international stage.
As sustainability becomes a critical necessity for the industry’s future, Syed Md Hasrin called for the continued promotion of
rigorous sustainability standards to ensure the sector’s long-term viability.