Sarawak palm oil sector seeks extension on empty fruit bunches incineration amid Environment Dept emission concerns

Kiu presenting a souvenir to Dr Hazland (seventh right) during a meeting on Sept 24, 2024.

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Sept 24: The palm oil industry in Sarawak is appealing for an extension of the incineration process that converts empty fruit bunches (EFB) into organic fertiliser.

Sarawak Oil Palm Plantation Owners Association (SOPPOA) chairman Eric Kiu explained that that the Department of Environment (DOE) currently prohibits this practice due to concerns over smoke emissions during the incineration process.

“While we acknowledge the environmental concerns, the industry believes that this process is essential for managing EFB waste and producing valuable organic fertiliser, which supports sustainable agriculture.

“To address the DOE’s concerns, the industry is willing to collaborate with environmental authorities to explore modern technologies and alternative methods to reduce emissions,” he said in a press statement today.

Kiu’s remarks came after a meeting with Deputy Minister of Energy and Environmental Sustainability Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni at his office yesterday (Sept 23), where several key issues impacting the operations of palm oil supply chain were discussed.

Kiu emphasised the potential of innovations such as more efficient incinerators or smoke-capture technology, which are not yet available, to ensure compliance with environmental regulations while allowing the process to continue.

“The goal is to find a balance between effective waste management, sustainability, and environmental protection, so the palm oil sector can continue to contribute to the circular economy,” he concluded.

Among those attending the meeting were association chief executive officer (CEO) Dr Felix Moh Mee Ho and members. — DayakDaily