InfoSAWIT, BENGKULU – The Bengkulu provincial government is targeting 3,500 hectares of palm oil replanting in 2026 as part of a strategy to improve productivity among smallholders.
According to Antara, as cited by InfoSAWIT on Tuesday (3/3/2026), Head of the Bengkulu Provincial Food Crops, Horticulture and Plantation Office, Sri Herlin Despita, said most smallholder plantations in the province are more than 25 years old, resulting in declining productivity.
“Most smallholder palms are over 25 years old, so production continues to decline. Through this replanting program we hope fresh fruit bunch output will increase again and directly improve smallholders’ income,” she said in Bengkulu City.
Target Areas in Five Districts
The 3,500-hectare replanting target will be distributed across five districts.
North Bengkulu will receive the largest allocation at 1,250 hectares, followed by Mukomuko with 750 hectares. Meanwhile, Central Bengkulu, South Bengkulu, and Seluma will each target 500 hectares.
Sri explained that the replanting program aims not only to replace aging palms but also to introduce high-quality seedlings to ensure higher productivity and long-term sustainability.
“With improved productivity, the welfare of palm oil smallholders in Bengkulu is expected to increase,” she said.
Technical Approval Challenges
However, the replanting program still faces administrative obstacles, particularly related to technical recommendations from the central government.
Last year, out of 1,882 hectares proposed for replanting, only 779 hectares received technical approval from the relevant ministry.
“For the areas that have received technical recommendations, we are still waiting for further guidance from the central government regarding implementation on the ground,” Sri explained.
The Bengkulu provincial government hopes the verification and technical approval process can be completed soon so the 3,500-hectare replanting target for 2026 can be realized, helping boost production and improve smallholders’ welfare. (T2)
