17/06/2013 (The Star) - Interested in investing in palm oil but have zero idea on how to go about it? Here are a few pointers by Datuk Dr Jessie Tang.

Gold, property and mutual funds aren’t the only options available to a person who wants to invest in something. As the economy slows down and investments in stocks, bonds and real estate dip, unconventional investments like that in palm oil can often net a financial windfall.

This is where the East West One Planter’s Scheme (EWOPS) comes in.

By allowing its investors to diversify their investment portfolio into the fast growing market of the palm oil industry, EWOPS is an ideal platform through which nearly everyone can be a proud temporary owner “of a piece of oil palm plantation without prior knowledge of the industry or a big investment to manage a plantation.”

Not only does it pave the way for each investor to reap fixed monthly returns paid on a quarterly basis, it also guarantees a fixed return of between 8% and 10% per year, depending on the amount invested. These returns are paid out in the form of quarterly dividends, while the investment period is for six to eight years only.

“The minimum amount of investment is in multiples of RM5,000. This gives a return of 8% per year,” says Tang. “The next level is RM10,000 which gives a return of 9% per year. So far, the most popular category is our Premier block, which is in multiples of RM58,888. This gives a return of 10% average per year or a total of 80% for the period of investment of eight years, guaranteed.”

But first, Tang reminds would-be investors to learn as much as possible about the investment product. “This can be done by reading (newspapers, magazines, blogs, etc) to find out what different investors have to say or experience,” she says. “Do not put all your eggs in one basket – spread your investments. Place some for the long-term, some mid-term and keep some as liquid as possible, just in case cash is needed for some emergencies. If you need to, consult an experienced investor or a financial consultant.”

She continues: “Any product which gives a return that is better than the bank’s fixed deposit rates (about 3.5%) but is not too exorbitant (for example, more than 15% to 20% per year) and which is well advertised, featured in reputable media/magazines or discussed widely, would be a good candidate. Also, with approval from relevant government regulators (that is, the Securities Commission or Companies Commission of Malaysia), investors can rest assured that the investment product has been properly scrutinised, and is not a scam or ponzi scheme.”