JOHOR BAHRU, PALMOILMAGAZINE — In an era where sustainability standards are tightening and international regulations grow more complex, smallholder palm oil farmers from across the globe have found their collective voice. From the rainforests of Papua New Guinea to the plantations of Honduras, and the heartlands of Africa to Southeast Asia, they gathered in Johor Bahru, Malaysia, for the International Smallholders Workshop (ISW) 2025 held on May 2–3.
Organized by the Council of Palm Oil Producing Countries (CPOPC), ISW 2025 was more than a conference—it became a powerful platform for collaboration, empowerment, and transformation. With the theme “Breaking Barriers in Achieving Targeted Yield: Driving Success Through Oil Palm Replanting and GAP Adoption”, the event centered on unlocking smallholders’ potential amid limited resources, aging plantations, and evolving market demands.
In his opening speech, CPOPC Secretary-General Rizal Affandi Lukman emphasized that smallholders are not just part of the industry—they are its backbone. “Sustainability cannot be achieved by sidelining them. Global regulations such as the EUDR must fairly involve smallholders to ensure just and lasting change,” he asserted.
Also Read: A Contemporary Manager for Sustainable Palm Oil Production
More than 80 in-person participants from Indonesia, Malaysia, Ghana, Nigeria, Myanmar, Thailand, Honduras, and Papua New Guinea attended, alongside virtual attendees from countries like Sri Lanka, the Philippines, Australia, and the Netherlands—making ISW 2025 a dynamic, multi-continent event.
The first day focused on strategies to boost smallholder productivity. Indonesian fund BPDPKS and Malaysia’s MPOB presented their palm oil replanting programs. A panel discussion, led by CPOPC’s Director of Sustainability and Smallholders, Dr. Witjaksana Darmosarkoro, explored systemic barriers that keep productivity low, while voices of uncertified farmers offered raw, honest insight into real-world challenges.
Afternoon sessions spotlighted sustainable farming. From Thailand, Plaipraya Community Enterprise shared their transformation story. Honduras-based Hondupalma showcased their inclusive model where farmers are shareholders. And Papua New Guinea’s Oil Palm Industry Corporation illustrated how corporate governance can align with local farmers’ needs.
Youth involvement emerged as a key theme. Ts. Muhamad Nazarwin Bin Zainal Abidin, Malaysia’s Young Elaeis Ambassador, challenged the notion that oil palm farming is outdated. “Palm oil is the future—if managed smartly,” he said in a session moderated by senior industry leader Datuk Nageeb Wahab.
The highlight came on day two, when participants visited Johor Plantation Berhad to witness firsthand the application of Good Agricultural Practices (GAP)—from precision pruning and weed control to modern irrigation and organized planting.
For Selorm Quame from Ghana, the visit was eye-opening: “We saw how Indonesia and Malaysia are moving forward despite challenges. We want to adopt similar strategies.” Gundemaro Castillo from Honduras praised the clean plantations and professional workforce. “It was practical and easy to follow,” he added.
Meanwhile, Kuakun Seangtan Plaipraya from Thailand found inspiration in the shared journey. “It’s our first time in a global forum like this. We realize now we are not alone. Others share our struggles—and our hopes,” she said, eyes sparkling.
Launched in 2022 as part of CPOPC’s Smallholders Outreach Program (SOP), ISW continues to be a catalyst for change. In 2025, it evolved into a global solidarity movement—driving replanting, spreading best practices, and reinforcing smallholders’ resilience in an increasingly demanding world. (P2)
