Sarawak palm oil sector embraces sustainable practices amid technological challenges

KUCHING (Oct 17): Palm oil industry players and the Sarawak government are intensifying their commitment to balance industrial progress with ecological responsibility, ensuring the palm oil industry continues to thrive in a sustainable manner, said Sarawak Oil Palm Plantation Owners Association (Soppoa).

However, one of the critical issues faced by the players is the industry’s need for more advanced technology to meet regulatory standards, especially in areas like by-product management and emissions control, its chairman Eric Kiu Kwong Seng pointed out.

He noted that many current processes lack the necessary technological solutions to align with environmental expectations, placing additional pressure on operators.

In a statement, he said these matters were discussed during their meeting with state Deputy Minister of Energy and Environmental Sustainability Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni here today.

Kiu said the meet marked yet another significant government-industry engagement aimed at addressing key issues within the palm oil industry in Sarawak.

“This meeting reflects the shared commitment to overcoming the numerous challenges the industry faces, particularly in adapting to increasingly stringent environmental regulations.

“During the meeting, Dr Hazland demonstrated his proactive approach by proposing several short and long-term strategies to assist the industry.

“His commitment to working with stakeholders ensures that practical, sustainable solutions can be identified and implemented,” said Kiu.

He said Soppoa deeply appreciated Dr Hazland’s ongoing initiatives and looked forward to continued collaboration in realising the state’s ambitions of improving environmental sustainability.

Also present during the meeting were Soppoa chief executive officer Dr Felix Moh Mee Ho and industry service providers.