KUCHING: The Sarawak Oil Palm Plantation Owners Association (Soppoa) has requested the Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB) to expand its research and development (R&D) team in the state to assist the local palm oil industry.
The association said improving production and oil extraction yields through technology and efficiency could boost productivity, especially for smallholders.
“The industry also needs more intensive R&D efforts to help reduce labour dependence through automation and mechanisation, and for the mitigation and elimination of pests and diseases to enhance productivity.
“A memorandum of understanding is being finalised by MPOB to be signed with Soppoa for this purpose,” it said in a statement.
On the opening up of land for smallholders and native customary rights (NCR) landowners for planting oil palm, as called for by Chief Minister Tan Sri Adenan Satem, Soppoa said this was a positive move to bring development to rural areas in order to improve the livelihood and welfare of rural communities.
It said its members supported this initiative as it would ensure the industry’s continued growth to bring more development to the state and its people.
In addition, Soppoa recognised the importance and economic impact of sustainability on the success of the palm oil industry.
“In this connection, Soppoa supports the implementation of the Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil certification scheme to ensure the sustainable production of Certified Sustainable Palm Oil,” it said.
The association said it would continue to work closely with the relevant ministries and government agencies on issues related to the palm oil industry in Sarawak.
It has been collaborating with MPOB to drive growth through better productivity and overall performance in plantation management activities and mill operation.
It also supports the state government’s initiatives in environmental sustainability, biodiversity conservation and wildlife preservation in Sarawak.
Soppoa recently held its annual general meeting and elected 15 council members for the 2015-2017 term. The office bearers are chairman Datuk Vasco Sabat Singkang, vice-chairmen Tiong Chiong Ong and Datuk Seri Law Kiu Kiong, secretary Shannon Yii Chong Hee, treasurer Datuk Jin Kee Mou, deputy secretary Datuk Ha Tiung Noon and deputy treasurer William Yii Hee Poh.
Taken from The Star
