27/08/2024 (Business Today) - The Malaysian Palm Oil Council (MPOC), in collaboration with the National Association of Smallholders (NASH), hosted a workshop on August 22, 2024, titled “Pengenalan Standard MSPO (MS2530:2022) dan Aspek Sosial Dalam Perniagaan.” The event attracted over 160 local oil palm smallholders from across Johor, highlighting the importance of sustainable and responsible palm oil practices.

This workshop is part of MPOC’s ongoing efforts to promote sustainable palm oil production. It aimed to enhance smallholders’ understanding of the Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) certification standards, with a particular focus on social responsibility.

With rising concerns in international markets, especially in Europe, regarding deforestation, labor practices, and supply chain transparency, compliance with global expectations is becoming increasingly crucial for those in the palm oil sector.

The seminar emphasised the need for human rights due diligence, guided by the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGP).

Smallholders were encouraged to view these practices as essential for ensuring the long-term viability and marketability of their products rather than merely regulatory requirements. Adhering to these standards helps protect workers’ rights, improve operational quality, and enhance access to international markets that demand ethically produced palm oil.

MPOC’s Chief Executive Officer, Belvinder Sron, underscored the significance of these initiatives, stating, “Promoting fair labor practices and respecting human rights are fundamental to the sustainability of the palm oil industry. This workshop not only reinforces our commitment to ethical practices but also aligns with global frameworks like the UNGP, ensuring Malaysian palm oil is produced with the utmost respect for human dignity.”

The session provided comprehensive guidance on the social components of the MSPO MS2530:2022 standards, which include maintaining safe working conditions, prohibiting forced and child labor, and adhering to both Malaysian and international legal requirements. By equipping smallholders with the tools to implement these standards in their operations, MPOC aims to foster a more compliant and socially responsible industry.

MPOC continues to advocate for the Malaysian palm oil industry, ensuring its prominence in the global market by upholding high standards of sustainability and ethical practices. Through ongoing education and outreach, MPOC is committed to providing all stakeholders in the palm oil sector with the necessary knowledge and tools to maintain these vital standards, enabling the industry to thrive while safeguarding human rights and the environment.

https://www.businesstoday.com.my/2024/08/27/mpoc-empowers-johor-smallholders-with-mpso-workshop/