PALMOILMAGAZINE, BALI — Indonesia and Malaysia are seeking to revive and strengthen cooperation with the European Union (EU) on the implementation of the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), emphasizing the importance of open dialogue, inclusivity, and shared understanding between producing and consuming countries.
On the sidelines of the 21st Indonesian Palm Oil Conference (IPOC) and 2026 Price Outlook in Bali on Thursday, November 13, 2025, Secretary General of the Council of Palm Oil Producing Countries (CPOPC), Izzana Salleh, said that this is a crucial moment for producing countries to engage in meaningful dialogue with Brussels.
“The idea is to reignite the joint collaboration between Indonesia, Malaysia, and the EU. It’s vital that producing countries are part of the conversation—not only in policy design but also in implementation,” said Izzana to Palmoilmagazine.com.
Also Read:
She explained that the current period is critical, as the EU is finalizing key decisions related to EUDR. Izzana stressed that both Indonesia and Malaysia are committed to ensuring that smallholders’ interests are represented in every stage of the policy process.
“The Joint Task Force (JTF) serves as a crucial bridge between Brussels and the producing countries. Implementation won’t be smooth if producers aren’t involved. That’s why this platform is important—to speed up problem-solving and ensure mutual understanding,” she added.
According to Izzana, collective engagement through the JTF will help strengthen communication channels and promote a fair, balanced approach to sustainability standards. “Working together gives us a stronger voice. It’s easier to find solutions and build trust when we act collectively as producing nations,” she said.
As the EU prepares to finalize its internal decisions on EUDR, Indonesia and Malaysia are actively briefing their respective governments and stakeholders to ensure that their positions are aligned. The goal, Izzana said, is to push for a fair, transparent, and inclusive implementation framework that considers the realities faced by millions of smallholders in both countries.
Also Read: Indonesia Palm Oil Hackathon 2025: Young Digital Innovators Strengthen the Future of Palm Oil
“In all our engagements—whether with the European Commission, trade associations, or parliamentarians—we’ve emphasized that sustainability must go hand in hand with inclusion,” Izzana noted. “Policies that exclude smallholders, women, and youth are not good policies. They are the backbone of our palm oil sector, and their economic empowerment is essential.”
Through the JTF, Indonesia and Malaysia aim to maintain constructive dialogue with Brussels and highlight that sustainable development cannot be achieved without fairness, collaboration, and respect for the livelihoods of those who produce the world’s essential commodities. (P2)
