PALMOILMAGAZINE, LABUHANBATU UTARA – Palm oil holds high economic value and is the backbone of the palm oil industry in Indonesia. Optimal palm oil cultivation requires a series of phases, starting from area preparation and selecting superior seeds to the harvest process. Each phase must be correctly conducted to maximize production and quality.
Despite its economic potential, palm oil cultivation is often scrutinized due to its environmental impacts. New palm oil plantations frequently lead to deforestation, which harms natural conservation and increases greenhouse gas emissions. Therefore, implementing sustainable and environmentally friendly palm oil cultivation practices is crucial.
Indonesia is one of the world’s largest palm oil producers, with Sumatra and Kalimantan contributing 80% of the national production. Indonesians have commercially cultivated palm oil as a vital daily resource. To improve productivity and harvest quality, smallholders need to master modern techniques and select superior seeds.
Also Read: Independent Smallholders in North Labuhanbatu Achieve ISPO Certification Through PFMA Training
The Regency of Labuhanbatu Utara conducted a technical training program for palm oil cultivation at Lee Polonia Hotel in Medan from June 24 to 29, 2024, to enhance productivity. The event was attended by the Head of Agriculture of the Regency of Labuhanbatu Utara, Sudarija, and was joined by 162 participants.
According to the Technical Recommendation of General Director of Plantation Ministry of Agriculture Number 660/Sm.120/E/11/2023, the training did consist of some parts, for instance, in Indonesian Sustainable Palm Oil (ISPO) certification process that involved 29 participants; for cultivation that involved 103 participants; and location map technic that involved 30 participants.
As Palmoilmagazine.com quoted from the official page of Regency of Labuhanbatu Utara, Wednesday (26/6/2024), Head of Agriculture Agency Regency of Labuhanbatu Utara, Sudarija appreciated Palm Oil Plantation Fund Management Agency (PFMA), General Directorate of Plantation, North Sumatera Livestock and Plantation Agency for their supports to conduct the training. It would be in the forms of description theoretically and field visit to the mills of PT. Adolina.
It is hoped the training would escalate the smallholders’ understanding and skills about sustainable palm oil cultivation and would take advantages on palm oil potential massively while maintain the social and environmental aspects. (T2)
