InfoSAWIT, JAKARTA — As climate-driven drought intensifies across Indonesia, Dami Mas—Sinar Mas Agribusiness and Food’s seed division—has introduced DxP Dami Mas MTK, the first oil palm seed in the country officially validated by the government for its proven performance under water-deficit conditions. The launch marks a major milestone in the industry’s adaptation to extreme weather.
Developed over more than a decade by the SMART Research Institute (SMARTRI), the moderate drought-tolerant MTK seed is designed to maintain high productivity even during prolonged dry spells. With drought now eroding yields and profit margins nationwide, the innovation arrives at a critical moment. SMARTRI data show that every 100 mm water deficit can cut yields by 8–10%, translating to more than US$4.5 billion in potential annual losses at the national scale.
In drought-prone regions like Lampung, yields have fallen by as much as 21%, underscoring the urgency for climate-resilient planting materials.
Outperforming Standard Varieties
The MTK variety was developed through genetic selection from 1,800 parent palms and rigorous testing of more than 40,000 seedlings using High Throughput Phenotypic Screening to assess drought-factor indices. Field trials in South Kalimantan, Central Kalimantan, and North Sumatra showed consistent results: MTK delivered at least 12% higher yields than standard varieties under drought conditions, and over 25% during extreme events such as the 2015 El Niño and 2018 Indian Ocean Dipole.
“Climate change is no longer a distant threat—it is already affecting farmers today,” said SMARTRI Director Dr. Jean-Pierre Caliman in a statement to InfoSAWIT. “The commercial approval of MTK shows that scientific solutions to protect productivity are now within reach.”
MTK is also the first seed to pass drought-tolerance verification by the Ministry of Agriculture’s scientific panel, cementing its position as a pioneer in Indonesia’s seed market.
Dami Mas underscored that MTK development extends beyond laboratory breakthroughs. Collaboration with smallholders and independent farmers ensures the seed addresses real-world field conditions. “We understand farmers’ concerns about yield losses during extreme weather,” said Dami Mas CEO Suryanto Bun. “MTK complements our high-yield and pest-resistant varieties, giving farmers stronger tools to face climate uncertainty.”
The first MTK seed shipments are scheduled for early 2026, with expansion plans targeting not only the domestic market but also West Africa, Latin America, and India—regions facing similar drought risks.
With its focus on long-term resilience and agronomic excellence, Sinar Mas Agribusiness and Food sees MTK as a strategic contribution to national food security and sustainable palm oil development.
“MTK reflects the future of oil palm breeding,” Dr. Caliman concluded. “When scientific research translates into real benefits for farmers, we move one step closer to a stronger and more sustainable palm oil industry.” (T2)
