InfoSAWIT, JAKARTA – The Director of Oil Palm and Other Palms, Directorate General of Plantations (Ditjenbun) Ministry of Agriculture, Baginda Siagian, revealed a serious issue regarding the rampant circulation of illegal and uncertified palm oil seeds in the field. He stated this during the Karantina Day 2025 Talkshow titled “From Quarantine for Sustainable Palm Oil: Supporting Indonesia's Food and Energy Security,” held on Friday (October 24, 2025) and attended by InfoSAWIT.

According to Baginda, many palm oil farmers are still using fake or uncertified seeds, also known as illegitimate ones. Based on their observations, it is estimated that 40-70% of palm seeds circulating in society are uncertified. This condition is considered very detrimental, as it will impact the productivity and quality of palm plants in the future.

“Many farmers are still using uncertified seeds. Yet the impact is significant on the results and sustainability of plantations. This must be our joint concern,” said Baginda.

He also emphasized the importance of overseeing seed circulation between regions, whether from Medan to Pekanbaru or other areas. He reminded that the entire seed distribution process must be monitored and follow applicable regulations to avoid losses for palm oil farmers.

“Our task is to ensure seed circulation runs according to the rules. Don't let fake seeds circulate freely, because in the end, it harms farmers,” he added.

Baginda hopes for stronger coordination between the government, research institutions like PPKS (Palm Oil Research Center), and field oversight officials. He also opens room for further discussion to find effective solutions to eradicate the practice of illegal seed circulation in the plantation sector. (T2)