PALMOILMAGAZINE, JAKARTA – The Young Elaeis Ambassadors (#YEAs) program, an initiative of the Council of Palm Oil Producing Countries (CPOPC), officially launched its second cohort on Friday, November 29, 2024. The event brought together young leaders from palm oil-producing and consuming countries.
The launch was officiated by Dida Gardera, Deputy for Food and Agribusiness at Indonesia’s Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs; Dato’ Razali Bin Mohamad, Deputy Secretary General of Malaysia’s Ministry of Plantation and Commodities; and Rizal Affandi Lukman, Secretary General of CPOPC.
This milestone underscores efforts to involve youth in promoting sustainability in the palm oil industry, addressing misconceptions, and highlighting the positive impacts on local communities and the global economy.
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In his remarks, Rizal Affandi Lukman emphasized that the program aligns with the collaborative strategies agreed upon by Indonesia, Malaysia, and Honduras to strengthen cooperation.
“By working together, we can ensure the growth and sustainability of the palm oil industry for future generations,” he said, as quoted by Palmoilmagazine.com on Sunday, December 1, 2024.
The #YEAs program has sparked youth engagement in advancing sustainable practices in the palm oil sector through digital campaigns and educational activities. The new cohort of ambassadors will focus on raising awareness through online and offline initiatives, addressing key issues such as environmental sustainability, health and nutrition, and the socio-economic benefits of palm oil.
The program has garnered global support, including from **Lusita**, a youth representative from Bangka Belitung, Indonesia, who expressed how the initiative broadened her perspective on palm oil’s role in supporting local economies and sustainability.
“I want to encourage young people to understand the importance of the palm oil industry, both economically and in terms of sustainability. I’m proud to share positive narratives about palm oil through my social media,” she stated.
Similarly, Izzuddin Bin Tuah, a #YEAs ambassador from Malaysia, highlighted the opportunities the program provided to learn, expand his network, and connect with peers from various countries.
“This program has allowed me to connect with friends from different nations, learning not only about palm oil but also about ecosystems we aim to protect,” he shared.
From Honduras, Juliette Martinez shared her experience of learning about the palm oil industry and its global ecological impact.
“The opportunity to learn and share this knowledge with my community is invaluable. I hope young people worldwide are inspired to care and share knowledge about sustainability,” she said.
The program also offers ambassadors the chance to visit palm oil production sites and conservation projects, including initiatives to protect orangutans, elephants, and tigers. These experiences deepen their understanding of the industry and the significance of sustainable practices.
Closing the event, Rizal Affandi Lukman reiterated the importance of unity among stakeholders from producing and consuming countries.
As the program progresses, CPOPC remains committed to empowering young leaders to shape the future of the palm oil industry, fostering global collaboration to address challenges and drive positive change in the sector. (P3)
