InfoSAWIT, JAKARTA – The global palm oil industry is mourning the passing of Benny Wachjudi, former Executive Director of the Council of Palm Oil Producing Countries (CPOPC), who died on Sunday, June 28, 2026.
The news was announced by CPOPC through its official social media channels. In its tribute, the intergovernmental organization representing major palm oil-producing nations recognized Benny's leadership and lasting contribution during the formative years of the organization.
"CPOPC remembers his dedication, leadership, and invaluable contributions to the organization. His legacy of service will continue to inspire and be remembered with great respect," the organization said in a statement obtained by InfoSAWIT on Monday (June 29, 2026).
Widely respected as a senior Indonesian policymaker, Benny built a distinguished career spanning industrial development and agribusiness. A graduate of Engineering Physics at the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB), he later earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Bridgeport, United States, strengthening his expertise in industrial and trade policy.
Before joining CPOPC, Benny held several senior leadership positions at Indonesia's Ministry of Industry, serving as Director General of the Agro and Chemical Industry, Director General of the Agro Industry, and Director General of the Manufacturing Industry Base. During his tenure, he played a significant role in advancing downstream industries based on Indonesia's natural resources, including the national palm oil sector.
When Indonesia and Malaysia established CPOPC to strengthen cooperation among palm oil-producing countries, Benny became one of the organization's key architects. Appointed as its first Executive Director in 2016, he led the establishment of CPOPC's permanent secretariat in Indonesia and oversaw the signing of the Host Country Agreement, a milestone that enabled the organization to begin full operations.
Under his leadership, CPOPC strengthened collaboration among producing countries, promoted the interests of the global palm oil industry, and coordinated responses to growing trade barriers and negative campaigns targeting palm oil.
Even after completing his tenure, Benny remained active as a senior industry advisor and served as an Independent Commissioner at several Indonesian companies, including PT FKS Food Sejahtera Tbk and PT Lautan Luas Tbk.
His extensive experience and strategic vision made him one of Indonesia's most respected figures in industrial development and agribusiness policy.
Benny Wachjudi leaves behind a lasting legacy in advancing Indonesia's palm oil diplomacy on the global stage. His commitment to strengthening cooperation among producing countries and defending the industry's interests will continue to be remembered across the international palm oil community. (T2)
