InfoSAWIT, JAKARTA – The Gorontalo Regency Government has reaffirmed its commitment to accelerating sustainable palm oil development by promoting downstream industries and strengthening collaboration among government, businesses, and smallholders.
The commitment was conveyed by Deputy Regent Tonny S. Junus during the 2026 National Working Meeting (Rakernas) and Workshop of the Association of Indonesian Palm Oil Producing Regencies (AKPSI), held at Bidakara Hotel in South Jakarta on Tuesday.
Carrying the theme "Palm Oil for the People," the annual gathering brought together central and regional government representatives to align strategies for strengthening Indonesia's sustainable palm oil sector while enhancing the value-added potential of one of the country's leading agricultural commodities.
Speaking during the event, Tonny emphasized that Gorontalo is ready to play a greater role in expanding downstream palm oil industries through partnerships involving local governments, private companies, and farming communities.
"Gorontalo Regency is prepared to contribute to strengthening palm oil downstream development through collaboration between government, businesses, and farmers so that the added value created by the industry can be enjoyed directly by local communities," he said.
According to Tonny, palm oil remains one of the most promising drivers of regional economic growth when managed professionally, sustainably, and with strong environmental stewardship.
He noted that downstream industrialization offers an opportunity not only to increase the competitiveness of Indonesia's palm oil industry but also to create new employment opportunities, stimulate local investment, and improve the welfare of communities in producing regions.
The AKPSI National Working Meeting also serves as an important platform for producing regencies to exchange experiences, strengthen inter-regional cooperation, and explore investment opportunities that support the long-term development of Indonesia's plantation sector.
Tonny expressed hope that the meeting would generate policy recommendations that place greater emphasis on the interests of farmers and regional governments, stressing that sustainable progress can only be achieved through close cooperation among all stakeholders.
Deputy Regent Tonny attended the event alongside Gorontalo Regency Health Office Head Ismail Akaseh, underscoring the local administration's support for national strategies aimed at advancing sustainable plantations while improving livelihoods in palm oil-producing regions. (T2)
