PALMOILMAGAZINE, BOGOR – Achmad Maulizal Sutawijaya, Head of Corporate Division at the Plantation Fund Management Agency (BPDP), reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to supporting the national agenda under Prabowo Subianto’s administration to achieve Indonesia Emas 2045. He conveyed this during a stakeholder discussion involving the palm oil, food, and energy sectors.
“We are grateful to continue collaborating with all parties, including oil palm farmers and related industries, to strengthen food and energy security based on Indonesia’s natural resources,” Achmad stated at the Palm Oil Downstream Industry Journalist Workshop in Bogor on Saturday (Feb 22, 2025).
In his presentation, Achmad outlined three key BPDP priorities aligned with the government’s vision. The first is achieving food self-sufficiency by boosting the production of strategic commodities, including palm oil, to reduce reliance on imports.
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The second focus is transitioning to renewable energy through the development of biofuels, particularly palm-based biodiesel, as an alternative to fossil fuels amid global geopolitical challenges.
The third priority involves strengthening the maritime industry by utilizing palm oil derivatives for ship and fishing boat components, supporting the local maritime economy. “Palm oil is not just for cooking oil or biodiesel; it can also be used in the maritime industry, such as palm fiber materials for fishing boat construction,” he added.
Achmad acknowledged several challenges, including limited access to BPDP funds for small farmers, delays in the oil palm replanting program (PSR), and the need to expand into non-traditional markets. To address these, BPDP signed funding agreements for 8,000 hectares of plantations in January 2024 and aims to support replanting efforts for an additional 50,000 hectares in 2025.
“Many farmers have yet to maximize their economic potential. They are hesitant to replant because it takes 2-3 years before they can harvest again. This issue needs to be addressed through incentives and technical support,” he explained.
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On the downstream side, BPDP is promoting market diversification, including exporting palm byproducts such as palm kernel meal and shells to South Korea and Japan. “Exports are no longer limited to crude palm oil. Its derivatives are becoming new key products,” Achmad noted.
BPDP is also partnering with banks and foreign investors to strengthen funding programs. Achmad mentioned that the second phase of the Family Hope Program (PKH) for farmers will be launched in Bandung.
“We are optimistic that food and renewable energy self-sufficiency can be achieved if all stakeholders work together. This is a crucial step toward Indonesia Emas 2045,” he emphasized.
With strong government policies and abundant natural resources, BPDP believes Indonesia can become a major global player while addressing future food and energy security challenges. (P2)
