InfoSAWIT, WEST TANJUNG JABUNG – Independent female oil palm farmers who are members of the Indonesian Sustainable Oil Palm Farmers Forum (FORTASBI) show that sustainability around oil palm plantations is not only about farming techniques, but also about the spirit of learning, sharing, and providing benefits for the environment and the local economy.
In Tanjung Jabung Barat Regency, Jambi, 70 women formed the Women's Nursery Management Group (KP3) consisting of the Nurul Huda Lestari, Mahau Berseri, and Al Ikhlas Berkah groups. With limited facilities, they cultivate local plants such as petai, coffee, candlenut, and durian. The seedlings are planted around plantations and critical land as a form of contribution to environmental sustainability.
The same spirit is also seen in East Kalimantan. Uum, a member of the Marga Indah Palm Oil Plantation Cooperative, is known as the most active member in sustainable palm oil field school activities. Not only does he absorb knowledge, he also shares it with his group so that the benefits can be felt more widely.
In North Sumatra, Nurhayati from the UD Lestari group in Batu Bara Regency focuses on improving women's economy through the utilization of palm oil waste. One of her innovative products is palm fronds, which not only reduces waste but also creates new economic opportunities for women in her village.
Meanwhile, in West Tanjung Jabung, there is Susi Wahyuni who is a pioneer in women's empowerment through a creative approach. In addition to farming, she introduced the eco-printing technique—natural printing on fabrics using leaves and materials from around the palm oil plantation. In the past three years, Susi has trained more than 50 women and school children to make patterned fabrics with natural dyes. These products are not only environmentally friendly, but also have economic value and have been exhibited at various events.
"Women must have additional skills outside of gardening. With eco printing, we can utilize what is around us without damaging the environment," Susi was quoted as saying, InfoSAWIT from Fortasbi, Sunday (25/5/2025).
These initiatives are proof that independent female oil palm farmers are not just actors in the plantation, but also agents of change. With their own methods and knowledge, they develop sustainable oil palm practices, while also driving real economic added value.
Through FORTASBI's support, the spirit of these women continues to grow—becoming an inspiration amidst the challenges of the palm oil industry towards a more sustainable and inclusive future. (T2)
