InfoSAWIT, JAKARTA – Deputy Secretary General of the Council of Palm Oil Producing Countries, Musdhalifah Machmud, emphasized that the palm oil industry is currently facing multidimensional challenges ranging from global regulations to health issues and environmental perceptions.
She noted that international regulations are increasing, many of which specifically target palm oil, including the European Union’s deforestation regulation set to be fully implemented by the end of 2026.
“Global regulations are expanding and largely targeting palm oil, including deforestation, sustainability standards, and product content often perceived negatively,” she stated during the 1st International Environment Forum (IEF) 2026 in Jakarta.
Musdhalifah also highlighted health-related campaigns, such as concerns over 3-MCPD and glycidyl esters, which continue to shape public perception despite incomplete understanding.
“This is a major task for us to provide accurate education to the global community,” she added.
From a sustainability perspective, she explained that the industry has long taken steps forward. Initiatives like the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil began in 2004, while Indonesia introduced the Indonesian Sustainable Palm Oil (ISPO) standard in 2011.
“We are on the right track, but implementation still needs to be strengthened,” she said.
She also pointed out Malaysia’s progress, with its Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil certification reaching around 90%, suggesting that collaboration among producing countries could accelerate progress in Indonesia.
On productivity, she acknowledged significant gaps, particularly among smallholders.
“Productivity remains a key challenge, along with replanting programs that are not yet optimal,” she noted.
She further highlighted persistent social issues and anti-palm oil campaigns, even domestically.
“It is ironic that palm oil is still labeled as harmful in our own country,” she said.
Regarding environmental concerns, she stressed that palm oil is often unfairly blamed for deforestation.
“Palm plantations cover only about 7 million hectares compared to tens of millions of hectares of forest areas,” she explained.
Looking ahead, she emphasized the need to strengthen sustainability, improve productivity, and enhance global communication. (T2)
