16/07/2010 (Bernama), Kuala Lumpur - The 34 participants from various countries who attended the Palm Oil Familiarisation Programme (POFB) here, have been urged to establish business links with the members of the Malaysian palm oil industry.

Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB) chairman, Datuk Seri Utama Shahrir Abdul Samad said participants should grab the opportunity by developing global networking in the global oils and fats industry.

"I hope all participants will benefit from this programme and the knowledge gained should be put to good use when you return to your countries," he said at the Farewell Dinner of the 30th POFB here Friday night.

Shahrir said palm oil which is natural, wholesome, cost effective and versatile cannot be matched by other oils due to its price competitiveness and techno-economic advantages.

"It is my sincere hope that you will be able to spread the knowledge you have gained about palm oil in your respective countries," he told the participants.

The POFB has been organised since 1982 on a yearly basis. The programme includes lectures, demonstrations, briefing, field visits and interactions with members of local industry.

This year's programme was attended by participants from Bangladesh, Bulgaria, China, Egypt, Morocco, Russia, South Africa, USA, Ukraine and Yemen.

Malaysia's oil palm planted area totals 4.7 million hectares while the commodity's exports earnings in 2009 was valued at RM49.6 billion.

It is exported to more than 150 countries and is produced in a sustainable manner.

There are more than 50 laws and regulations in place to ensure that oil palm development in the country subscribes to sustainable practices.