“Lanka’s climate ideal for profitable palm oil cultivation and production”
12/08/2024 (Daily News) - The Malaysian High Commissioner in Sri Lanka Badli Hisham Adam said that Sri Lanka’s climate is ideal for a profitable palm oil cultivation and production, which can alleviate poverty and benefit smallholders.
He opined this at a recently held workshop in Galle hosted by Palm Oil Industry Association of Sri Lanka. He contrasted this with his experience in Kazakhstan, where the harsh winter prevents palm oil cultivation, highlighting Sri Lanka’s advantage of abundant water and a suitable climate.
“In a developing country like Sri Lanka, such an income is substantial. One acre can produce one ton of palm oil, and with proper care, the yield can increase, making the sector highly profitable.”
The Ambassador noted that maintaining oil palm is not difficult with the right knowledge. He shared his observations from other countries like Papua New Guinea, where women manage plantations successfully. These regions, blessed with good soil, produce some of the best palm oil seeds, demonstrating that with proper management and knowledge, palm oil cultivation can thrive anywhere. The Ambassador expressed his desire to see other countries prosper. Malaysia has nothing to lose by helping Sri Lanka and as part of ASEAN, they aim to assist their friends and neighbours. Starting with a positive narrative is crucial, especially since competitors often promote negative perceptions. Working together to enhance knowledge about the palm oil ecosystem can lead to greater success in the industry. He urged Sri Lankans to be more assertive in advocating for their interests.
He emphasized the need for a campaign to promote palm oil, starting with a positive approach to generate more energy and enthusiasm. He shared his personal experience of being raised in a region abundant in palm oil, which holds a special place in his heart and also owning some cultivation. “Within three years of planting, we began to yield a significant harvest, earning around $200 per month”
The Malaysian Ambassador called for a collaborative and proactive approach to promoting palm oil, leveraging Sri Lanka’s natural advantages and learning from successful examples in other regions. Dr Rohan Fernando President POIA said that although palm oil is currently banned in Sri Lanka, expressed confidence that this ban would be lifted.
Dr Fernando thanked Solidaridad and the Nucleus Foundation for their unwavering support, particularly through workshops, seminars and the publication “Myths and Truths.” (SS)