Malaysia’s MPOC is into ongoing efforts to advance sustainable palm oil production, and aims to deepen smallholders’ understanding of the Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) certification standards, particularly the social responsibility aspects. Amid rising concerns in international markets, particularly in Europe, over issues such as deforestation, labour practices, and supply chain transparency, compliance with global expectations is increasingly essential for those involved in the palm oil sector
To support the initiative recently, The Malaysian Palm Oil Council (MPOC), in partnership with the National Association of Smallholders (NASH), hosted a workshop titled “Pengenalan Standard MSPO (MS2530:2022) dan Aspek Sosial Dalam Perniagaan,” attracting over 160 local oil palm smallholders from across Johor. This initiative underscored the critical role of sustainable and responsible palm oil practices.
MSPO highlights the importance of human rights due diligence as guided by the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGP). Smallholders were encouraged to adopt these practices not merely as regulatory obligations but as vital steps to ensure the long-term viability and marketability of their products. Compliance with these standards helps safeguard workers’ rights, improve operational quality, and expand access to international markets demanding ethically produced palm oil. By equipping smallholders with the tools to integrate these standards into their daily operations, MPOC aims to cultivate a more compliant and socially responsible industry.
MPOC remains a crucial advocate for the Malaysian palm oil industry, ensuring its continued prominence in the global market by upholding the highest standards of sustainability and ethical practices. Through continuous education and outreach, MPOC is committed to equipping all stakeholders in the palm oil sector with the knowledge and tools necessary to maintain these vital standards. Together, the industry can thrive while protecting human rights and the environment.
