Malaysia advances palm oil sustainability with MSPO certification and circular economy practices
12/01/2025 (New Straits Times), Kuala Lumpur - Malaysia has strengthened its dedication to sustainability in the palm oil sector through initiatives such as the Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) certification and the adoption of circular economy practices.
Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani said these initiatives will pave the way toward Malaysia's strategy to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
In his keynote address at the recently held 7th Pakistan Edible Oil Conference (PEOC) 2025, he also emphasised the enduring partnership between Malaysia and Pakistan which are strengthened by the Malaysian-Pakistan Closer Economic Partnership Agreement (MPCEPA).
"Malaysia's position as the second-largest global producer of palm oil has contributed over US$20 billion annually to its economy and supporting nearly one million livelihoods," he added.
Johari also highlighted the importance of palm oil in Pakistan's food and non-food industries, noting that the rising demand for palm oil presents a significant opportunity for innovation and the development of value-added products.
"Let's look forward to seeing Malaysia and Pakistan deepen this collaboration in the oils and fats sector, unlocking new opportunities for mutual growth and everlasting innovation.
"Together, we can ensure the continued prosperity of this vital industry while championing sustainable practices globally," he said.
Johari led the delegation to Pakistan, accompanied by Malaysian High Commissioner to Pakistan Datuk Mohammad Azhar Mazlan, senior officials from his ministry and representatives from FGV Holdings Bhd, IOI Corporation Bhd and Kuala Lumpur Kepong Bhd (KLK)
Pakistan ranks as Malaysia's seventh-largest palm oil importer, making it a strategic partner in the edible oil sector.