InfoSAWIT, JAKARTA – The Merangin Regency Government has reaffirmed its support for Indonesia's B50 biodiesel program, viewing the initiative as a strategic step toward accelerating palm oil downstream development while strengthening the country's long-term energy security.
The commitment was conveyed by Merangin Regent H. M. Syukur after attending the AKPSI Workshop and Palm Oil Expo 2026, themed "Palm Oil for the People," held in South Jakarta. The event brought together regional governments, industry stakeholders, smallholders, and state-owned enterprises to discuss the future of Indonesia's palm oil sector.
According to an official statement obtained by InfoSAWIT on Friday (July 10), Syukur said the B50 mandate—which blends 50% palm-based biodiesel with 50% conventional diesel fuel—will play a vital role in reducing Indonesia's dependence on imported fossil fuels while creating greater added value for domestically produced palm oil.
He emphasized that sustainable palm oil development should remain a key driver of economic growth and community welfare, particularly in rural areas where the commodity serves as a major source of income.
"The palm oil industry must continue to develop in a sustainable manner while delivering tangible economic benefits to local communities," Syukur said.
The Regent stressed that the success of Indonesia's downstream palm oil agenda will depend on close collaboration among the central government, regional administrations, industry associations, plantation companies, and independent smallholders.
Such cooperation, he noted, would enable the sector to contribute not only as one of Indonesia's leading export earners but also as a catalyst for regional economic development and job creation.
Merangin's participation in the AKPSI Workshop and Palm Oil Expo 2026 also reflects the regency's commitment to supporting national plantation policies while exploring new partnerships, innovations, and investment opportunities aimed at enhancing the competitiveness of Indonesia's palm oil industry.
The event was officially opened by Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Akhmad Wiyagus and attended by regional leaders, representatives from the palm oil industry, growers' organizations, plantation associations, and state-owned enterprises, highlighting a shared commitment to advancing downstream processing and renewable energy development. (T2)
