InfoSAWIT, BALIKPAPAN – The Governor of East Kalimantan, H. Rudy Mas’ud (Harum), emphasized the importance of sustainable palm oil management as a key pillar of the regional economy and a support for the development of the new national capital (IKN).
According to him, East Kalimantan has productive palm oil plantations spanning 1.34–1.57 million hectares, with an annual production of 17–19 million tons of fresh fruit bunches (FFB). This immense potential, said Harum, will only deliver maximum benefits if managed with sustainable principles.
"Sustainability, and the balance of economic, social, and environmental aspects, are the principles we must uphold so that palm oil truly becomes a blessing for the community," said Harum, as reported by InfoSAWIT from the East Kalimantan Provincial Government on Saturday (9/13/2025).
The Governor, affectionately known as Harum, also received the "Indonesian Palm Oil Governor" award, a recognition of his efforts to promote downstream processing, product diversification, and the strengthening of the green economy concept in the plantation sector.
Other strategic issues discussed included strengthening small and medium-sized enterprises (UMKM) in the palm oil sector, job opportunities for the youth, and palm oil's role in supporting IKN development. The East Kalimantan Plantation Office (Disbun) asserted that cross-sector synergy is essential so that palm oil not only drives the industry but also strengthens the socio-economic resilience of the community.
"East Kalimantan's palm oil must become a competitive green economic engine that provides tangible benefits, both for the region and the nation," said Taufiq Kurrahman, Head of the Processing and Marketing Division at the East Kalimantan Disbun.
In addition, the East Kalimantan Disbun showcased regional flagship products through its "Kaltim Garden Store," which serves as a platform to promote processed palm oil products and other plantation commodities. This presence underscores the Disbun's role not only as a regulator but also as a facilitator that promotes wider market access for farmers and business players. (T2)
