PALMOILMAGAZINE, PONTIANAK – The Ministry of Industry (Kemenperin) continues to push the downstream development of Indonesia’s palm oil sector as a strategic move to support national economic growth. This initiative has shown significant results: the export ratio of palm derivatives has shifted dramatically—from 40% raw materials and 60% processed products in 2010 to just 7% raw materials and 93% finished goods by 2024.
“This marks a tremendous leap in domestic palm oil processing. The number of derivative products has also increased from 48 types in 2011 to around 200 by 2024,” said Minister of Industry Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita in an official statement quoted by Palmoilmagazine.com on Saturday, May 31, 2025.
Agus stressed the importance of high-quality raw materials and technological innovation in refining and processing to create high-value products. “Competent human resources are also a key factor in driving this industry forward,” he added.
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To meet this need, Kemenperin relies on its network of vocational education institutions, including SMK-SMTI Pontianak, which specializes in the palm oil and textile industries.
Masrokhan, Head of the Industrial Human Resources Development Agency (BPSDMI), explained that each educational unit under the ministry is sector-specific, from vocational high schools to polytechnics and community academies. “Developing skilled industry talent is our top priority,” he stated.
As part of this vocational development effort, SMK-SMTI Pontianak recently hosted PT Perkebunan Nusantara (PTPN) IV Regional V in the “Palm Co Goes to School: Cerdas Bersama PalmCo” program on Tuesday, May 27, 2025.
School principal Marwandi expressed appreciation for the visit. “Our focus is on palm oil and textiles. This activity truly broadens our students’ perspectives,” he said.
During the event, PTPN IV Regional V Senior Executive Vice President Darmansyah Siregar delivered a talk titled The Future In Our Palm, highlighting the strategic role of palm oil as a sustainable commodity and reaffirming the company’s commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles.
Darmansyah encouraged students to be work-ready and stay drug-free. “It’s very possible that PTPN and SMK-SMTI Pontianak could build a long-term partnership,” he added.
The session included an enthusiastic Q&A segment, with students asking about career opportunities at state-owned enterprises, the role of youth in sustainable palm oil, and the balance between hard and soft skills in leadership.
The visit concluded with a symbolic handover of donations from PTPN IV to the school—five volleyballs, five soccer balls, five basketballs, and two laptops—to support student activities and learning. (P2)
