InfoSAWIT, KUBU RAYA – The Chairman of the Human Resources Development Division of the Indonesian Palm Oil Association (GAPKI), Sumarjono Saragih, emphasized the importance of a collective commitment to protect women and child workers in the palm oil plantation sector. He delivered this message at the 5th Indonesian Palm Oil Smallholder Conference and Expo (IPOSC), attended by InfoSAWIT on Wednesday (9/24/2025).

According to Sumarjono, the palm oil industry often faces scrutiny over labor issues, including accusations of child labor and a lack of protection for female workers. Data from the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) notes that Indonesia still has about 1.2 million child workers. "We must take this fact seriously. Neither farmers nor palm oil companies can turn a blind eye. We must collectively fight negative perceptions with concrete actions," he asserted.

He stressed that labor protection is not only the responsibility of large companies but of the entire palm oil industry ecosystem: farmers, entrepreneurs, suppliers, and transportation services. "It's not enough for just entrepreneurs. All parties must understand how to work safely, protect female workers from violence, and ensure that workers are socially and health-wise protected," he said.

In addition to the issue of child labor, Sumarjono also touched upon the risks of chemical exposure for plantation workers and the still prevalent cases of sexual violence. Therefore, he called on all stakeholders to strengthen education, occupational safety, and health.

"The Indonesian palm oil industry is not just about entrepreneurs or farmers. It's about people—workers, women, and children who must be protected. From this forum, let's strengthen our collective commitment," he concluded. (T2)