PALMOILMAGAZINE, Jakarta – Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto underscored the critical role of palm oil as a strategic national commodity during his address at the National Development Planning Forum (Musrenbangnas) for the 2025–2029 RPJMN, held in Jakarta on Monday.
Prabowo expressed gratitude for Indonesia’s resilience amid global tensions and the ongoing global food crisis. “We step into tomorrow with courage and confidence. We are grateful to God—grateful, grateful, and grateful,” he remarked, as reported by Palmoilmagazine.com on December 30, 2024.
Highlighting palm oil’s growing importance globally, the President noted the increasing demand for vegetable oils. “Many nations are anxious about securing palm oil supplies. It has become a truly strategic commodity,” he stated.
Also Read: Indonesia Allocates 15.62 Million Kiloliters of Biodiesel for 2025
Prabowo called on all stakeholders, from regents and governors to military and police forces, to safeguard palm oil plantations, which he referred to as “national assets.” He also encouraged the expansion of palm oil cultivation to strengthen the sector further.
Addressing accusations linking palm oil to deforestation, Prabowo firmly rejected such claims, emphasizing its ecological benefits, including carbon absorption. “Palm oil trees have leaves, don’t they? They can absorb carbon,” he affirmed.
The President also criticized the European Union’s perceived unfair stance on Indonesian palm oil. He stated that Indonesia would remain resilient even if the EU ceased purchasing palm oil, pointing out the potential difficulties European industries might face. “Chocolate industries would face chaos without palm oil. Palm oil is also used in detergents and cosmetics,” he added.
In closing, President Prabowo conveyed optimism that palm oil would continue to be a cornerstone of Indonesia’s economy. He urged all elements of the nation to safeguard this strategic commodity, ensuring it contributes to achieving economic self-reliance. (P2)
