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Kota Kinabalu: The Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB) hosted the National Seminar on Palm Oil Milling, Refining, Environment and Quality 2024 (POMREQ 2024), emphasising the crucial role of industry players in driving a sustainable and competitive future for the oil palm industry.

The seminar, officiated by Deputy Minister of Plantation and Commodities (KPK) Datuk Chan Foong Hin, underscored the importance of industry collaboration in supporting Malaysia’s commitment to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050.

“POMREQ 2024 serves as a vital platform for sharing research findings, fostering discussions, and charting the path towards a stronger oil palm industry,” Chan stated adding the palm oil-based bioenergy and biomass sectors are key catalysts for the national economy and a more sustainable future for Malaysia.

Industry players are at the forefront of this transformation, and their commitment to sustainable practices is essential for our collective success, he said.

The two-day seminar featured 25 paper presentations and 30 research posters from experts, researchers, and industry players, covering key aspects of oil palm processing: Milling Technology, Processing, Food Safety and Quality, Renewable Energy, Biomass Circularity, and Sustainability and Climate Change.

MPOB Chairman Datuk Mohamad Helmy Othman Basha highlighted the organization’s commitment to facilitating collaboration between industry players and government agencies.

“MPOB’s involvement extends beyond R&D and innovation. We actively engage in consultations, dialogues, and forums to address industry concerns, particularly regarding environmental issues, quality, and safety of palm oil,” he emphasized.

“This collaborative approach is crucial for ensuring the long-term sustainability of the industry.”

Hence, Chan urged industry players to remain vigilant about developments and challenges impacting the production of high-quality palm oil that meets food safety standards.

“Cooperation among all stakeholders is essential in developing quality standards for international trade, such as Malaysian Standards and Codex,” he stated.

“By working together, we can ensure that the Malaysian palm oil industry remains competitive and sustainable in the global market.”

During the opening ceremony, Chan launched MPOB’s new publication, “Minyak Sawit Merah: Pilihan untuk Gaya Hidup Sihat,” which provides comprehensive information on the benefits and nutritional value of red palm oil in Bahasa Malaysia, English, Mandarin, and Tamil.