PALMOILMAGAZINE, KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysia is preparing to bolster its international diplomacy on sustainable palm oil. The Ministry of Plantation and Commodities (KPK) plans to apply for membership in the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), one of the world’s most influential environmental and conservation organizations.
According to the ministry, this step is a strategic effort to present evidence-based narratives on Malaysia’s sustainable palm oil practices — while correcting long-standing negative perceptions circulating globally.
Datuk Razali Mohamad, Deputy Secretary-General (Plantation and Commodities), underscored the importance of Malaysia having a presence in global forums that shape opinions and policies on conservation.
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“This is a crucial step that allows us to show the world that Malaysia’s palm oil industry is sustainable, law-abiding, and does not cause environmental harm or displace wildlife,”
he said, as quoted by Palmoilmagazine.com from The Star on Friday (28/11/2025).
Razali believes that Malaysia’s direct involvement in the IUCN will create wider opportunities to present scientific evidence and field data on conservation efforts, ensuring that international discussions on palm oil are no longer dominated by perception alone.
His remarks came during the closing ceremony of Jelajah Sawit Hijau, a nationwide roadshow organized by the Malaysian Palm Oil Green Conservation Foundation (MPOGCF).
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Carrying the theme “Conservation is the Key to Sustainable Palm Oil”, the roadshow engaged the public through a mix of science, environmental education, and entertainment — a creative approach to highlighting the central role of conservation in the palm oil sector.
The program showcased technology, research, and sustainability practices already implemented by the industry, while helping the public understand how the sector continues adapting to global demands.
Beyond strengthening the industry’s image, Razali emphasized that the welfare of industry stakeholders — especially smallholders — remains a priority.
Through the Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB), the government oversees more than 200,000 independent smallholders, in addition to growers under Felda, Felcra, and Risda.
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“Smallholders’ welfare is protected, and they receive training to ensure their planting practices meet the required standards,” Razali explained.
The training covers sustainable agronomy, environmentally responsible estate management, and compliance with regulations that form the basis of industry certification.
Malaysia’s intention to join the IUCN signals a shift from a defensive to a proactive stance. By participating directly, the country aims to secure a seat at the decision-making table — presenting data, engaging in discussions, and contributing to conservation guidelines that often shape global opinion.
For Malaysia’s palm oil industry, the move is not merely about reputation. It is also about safeguarding market access, strengthening trust, and ensuring that this strategic national commodity remains competitive in the future. (P2)
