LAGOS, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- The government of Malaysia has announced it will no longer allow new oil palm plantations to be established in forested areas.
The Plantation and Commodities Minister, Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani made the pledge during the World Orangutan Day 2024 event on Sunday.
He stated that Malaysia aims to maintain its current forest cover of 54% to enhance biodiversity protection, including safeguarding the endangered orangutan population.
“We want to maintain our forest cover at 54% to enhance biodiversity protection including safeguarding orangutans,” Johari said. “I believe we have enough oil palm plantations.”
The minister revealed that the government has already communicated this new policy to industry players through various engagements.
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He emphasized that palm fruits harvested from deforested areas will be barred from entering palm oil mills, and factories accepting such fruits will be prohibited from exporting or selling their products.
Johari also stressed the need for Malaysia to ensure all palm oil exports meet sustainability standards to prove the country’s commitment to responsible practices.
He noted that Sabah alone has 1.5 million hectares of oil palm plantations.
Despite the industry’s economic importance, contributing 3% to Malaysia’s GDP and generating over RM100 billion in export revenue while providing around one million jobs, the palm oil sector has faced criticism and negative propaganda from some Western countries regarding its sustainability.
“The government is committed to addressing these false claims,” Johari said. “We are making Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil certification mandatory for all producers, including estates and smallholders.”
This move aims to assure buyers of the products’ sustainability and quality, which is crucial as over 80% of Malaysia’s palm oil production is destined for export markets.
