PALMOILMAGAZINE, PONTIANAK – With palm oil plantations showing significant potential in Indonesia, there is an opportunity for business diversification through the development of integrated palm oil-cow programs. Purwati Munawir, Chairwoman of the Indonesian Palm Oil Association (IPOA) West Kalimantan and a mother of three, emphasized the increasing demand for beef amidst a growing population, yet the local supply is insufficient, necessitating imports from overseas.
“Palm oil-cow integrated programs could be developed because palm oil serves as a source of feed for cows, their waste can produce biogas, and in certain areas, cows can be utilized for transporting fresh fruit bunches. Cows could offer additional income for smallholders,” Purwati explained to Palmoilmagazine.com.
Recognizing the potential, Purwati, who has been involved in the palm oil sector since 1989, advocates for comprehensive technical studies on agro-climate and suitable locations in West Kalimantan Province to support palm oil-cow development.
However, this model presents several challenges. Firstly, it requires in-depth studies to ensure that cow breeding within palm oil plantations is both technically and economically viable. Secondly, capacity-building efforts are needed to educate palm oil plantation companies and their partners on the technical and economic aspects of cow breeding.
Thirdly, there is a need for facilitation of funds to procure, breed, and establish nurseries, among other support requirements. Fourthly, there must be guarantees for stakeholders, given that the needs and treatment of cows differ from those of palm oil plantations. Lastly, the success of such programs relies on the encouragement and support from regional governments and other relevant stakeholders. (T2)
