InfoSAWIT, SANGATTA – The Deputy Regent of Kutai Timur (Kutim), Mahyunadi, emphasized the importance of researching local palm oil seeds suited to the soil characteristics of Kutim to reduce the region's dependence on seed supplies from Sumatra. He made the statement during a meeting with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Sustainable Landscape of Palm Oil Initiative (SLPI) team at the Royal Victoria Hotel's Pelangi Room last Wednesday (9/10/2025).

"If they can do it in Sumatra, why not in Kutim?" Mahyunadi said, motivating the region to take steps towards self-sufficiency in palm oil seeds.

Currently, Kutim relies entirely on seeds from outside the region, especially Sumatra. According to Mahyunadi, there is great potential for local research to produce seeds that are more adaptable to Kutim's soil and climate. "There haven't been any ideas in that direction. That's why I'm encouraging Kutim to start this initiative. If there is research, it can be directed to be funded by the region," he explained, as reported by InfoSAWIT from the Kutai Timur Regency Government on Saturday (9/13/2025).

He acknowledged that palm oil research is a long-term endeavor, ideally covering one planting cycle of around 20–25 years to determine viability and fruit productivity. However, with focused research and technological support, Mahyunadi is optimistic that initial results can be achieved faster. "With focused research, perhaps in the next five years, we can start producing seeds suitable for Kutim's soil," he hoped.

In addition to discussing seed research, the meeting also highlighted the Kutim Regency Government's commitment to the Regional Action Plan for Sustainable Palm Oil (RAD KSB), which aligns with East Kalimantan's green economy strategy and the national targets through the RAN KSB. The Kutai Timur Sustainable Development Multi-Stakeholder Forum (Formika) was also encouraged to strengthen cross-sector collaboration—among the government, companies, cooperatives, and the community.

UNDP Indonesia also introduced the Effective Collaborative Action (ECA) methodology to ensure the involvement of all parties in sustainable development. As part of the agenda, the UNDP SLPI team was scheduled to conduct field visits to the villages of Muara Bengalon, Tepian Baru, and Miau Baru to directly observe the challenges faced by farmers and existing local innovations.

With well-planned local seed research, Kutim is expected to increase palm oil productivity, preserve the environment, and improve community well-being. This effort is also expected to serve as an example for other regions in building a sustainable and self-reliant palm oil industry. (T2)