PALMOILMAGAZINE, PETALING JAYA — Malaysia must urgently prioritize the adoption of a bio-based economy to ensure the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of its palm oil sector in the global market. This call comes from Hong Wai Onn, founder of the Research Institute for Sustainable Excellence and Leadership (RISEL).
According to Hong, Malaysia’s palm oil industry must evolve beyond traditional commodity-based practices. He emphasized the importance of creating added value through biomass utilization, methane recovery, and the implementation of circular business models that offer both environmental and economic benefits.
“Our palm oil sector needs to transform. We must rethink how we generate value—for example, by converting waste into renewable energy and environmentally friendly chemicals,” Hong said in an official statement quoted by Palmoilmagazine.com from Bernama on Tuesday, April 15, 2025.
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He highlighted several innovations already piloted or commercialized, such as converting empty fruit bunches into biofuels and biochemicals, and capturing methane from palm oil mill effluent for use in renewable energy technologies.
“These innovations not only reduce emissions but also create new revenue streams, helping to shift Malaysia toward a low-carbon economy,” he added.
Hong dismissed the notion that the circular economy is merely a buzzword. Instead, he described it as a powerful and forward-thinking business strategy.
“A circular mindset—centered on reuse, waste reduction, and cross-sector collaboration—enables industries to grow sustainably while remaining profitable,” he stated.
He also stressed the importance of developing future-ready human capital. The demand for skilled professionals capable of driving green innovation continues to rise. From carbon capture technologies to biotechnology, the industry needs leaders who think systemically, are willing to learn, and challenge outdated approaches.
“Biotechnology and industrial symbiosis will be major disruptors of the conventional economy. The future lies in replacing fossil-based raw materials with bio-based sources and turning industrial waste into valuable resources—realizing a regenerative economy by design,” Hong concluded. (P2)
