InfoSAWIT, PALANGKA RAYA — The Government of Central Kalimantan Province continues to strengthen its commitment to sustainable palm oil governance. One of the initiatives includes the Provincial Training on Indonesian Sustainable Palm Oil (ISPO) Certification, officially opened by Herson B. Aden, Assistant for Economic Affairs and Development of the Regional Secretariat of Central Kalimantan, representing the Acting Provincial Secretary, at the Central Kalimantan Human Resources Development Agency (BPSDM) Hall on Tuesday (4 November 2025).
In his remarks, Herson conveyed the Acting Provincial Secretary’s message, emphasizing that this activity reflects a strategic collaboration between the provincial government, the Plantation Office, private sector, training institutions, and local communities as direct beneficiaries.
“This program exemplifies multi-stakeholder synergy focused on tangible outcomes. The government is not just a regulator but also a partner in strengthening smallholders’ capacity,” said Herson.
He stressed that ISPO certification has now become a crucial foundation for ensuring smallholder palm oil in Central Kalimantan can compete in global markets.
“ISPO certification is no longer optional — it’s a necessity and a strategic advantage. Through ISPO, we enhance competitiveness, expand market access, and ensure palm oil management that is legal, transparent, sustainable, and fair,” he stated, as reported by InfoSAWIT from the Central Kalimantan Provincial Government on Saturday (8 November 2025).
Furthermore, Herson expressed hope that this training would increase farmers’ understanding of ISPO principles and criteria, strengthen smallholder institutions, clarify land legality and farm administration, and promote environmentally responsible plantation management.
He emphasized that the training would not stop at theory.
“The Provincial Government will continue to assist smallholders until ISPO certificates are officially issued. We want this training to deliver concrete benefits for local communities,” he added.
Meanwhile, Rizky R. Badjuri, Head of the Central Kalimantan Provincial Plantation Office, explained that the training aims to build smallholders’ capacity and competence in implementing ISPO standards, while accelerating the certification process.
“With ISPO certification, smallholders not only comply with regulations but also gain stronger business legitimacy and wider market opportunities,” Rizky said.
The event was attended virtually by officials from the Directorate General of Plantations and the Directorate of Palm Oil and Other Perennial Crops, and in person by Warsito, Director of PT Titian Karsa Mandiri, alongside speakers, facilitators, technical assistants, and participants from Seruyan and Lamandau regencies.
Through this training, the government hopes more smallholders in Central Kalimantan will be ready to compete globally by adopting sustainable, credible, and competitive palm oil practices. (T2)
