COP29: MPOC SHOWCASES MALAYSIA'S LEADERSHIP IN SUSTAINABLE PALM OIL TO THE WORLD

From Samantha Tan Chiew Tieng

BAKU (Azerbaijan), Nov 16 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Palm Oil Council’s (MPOC) maiden participation in the 29th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC-COP29) reflected Malaysia's leading role in sustainable palm oil production.

To further elevate the Malaysian palm oil industry’s voice to the global stage, MPOC hosted a discussion titled, “Powering a Just Transition: Sustainable Malaysian Palm Oil”, at the Malaysia Pavilion, highlighting the country's dedication to producing certified sustainable palm oil (CSPO) and underscoring its role in fulfilling the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

MPOC chief executive officer Belvinder Sron shared that the council’s presence at COP29 underscores Malaysia’s position as a trailblazer in sustainable palm oil production, further demonstrating the country’s proactive approach to sustainable practices.

"Through strategic partnerships and steadfast dedication to responsible practices, we aim to set a global benchmark for environmental stewardship and economic resilience, showing the world that sustainable palm oil can meet both ecological and societal needs," she said.

Furthermore, Belvinder said this reflects Malaysia’s intention to align its agricultural practices with ecological and social sustainability goals.

She noted that the MPOC has collaborated with major industry players such as SD Guthrie, Felda Global Ventures and Malaysian Palm Oil Green Conservation Foundation (MPOGCF) to enhance Malaysia's leadership in climate-smart agriculture. 

Engaging with international leaders and policymakers at COP29 demonstrated sustainable palm oil can be a critical contributor to both global food security and environmental sustainability, thus creating a pathway toward a resilient future.

The major focus of MPOC's participation was advancing a “Just Transition” agenda, which seeks to ensure Malaysia's shift toward sustainability includes equitable growth and job security for all stakeholders, especially smallholders and rural communities relying on the industry.

MPOC also announced a "Net-Zero Transition" study in partnership with Swinburne University, providing a comprehensive roadmap for Malaysia's palm oil industry to achieve net-zero emissions. 

The landmark study aligns the industry with global climate goals and emphasises its commitment to responsible practices that balance economic growth with environmental preservation.

Meanwhile, United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network (UNSDSN) president, Professor Jeffrey Sachs, highlighted the critical role of sustainable economic development in the global south and emphasised Malaysia's contributions to inclusive climate action.

The economist and sustainability advocate expressed a great deal of enthusiasm and optimism about Malaysia's upcoming ASEAN chairmanship in 2025 and its role in advancing sustainable development. 

"I am excited about Malaysia's leadership as the chair of ASEAN in the coming year. Malaysia has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainable development, making it a great leader in the region. 

"With this upcoming presidency, I am confident that ASEAN can make significant strides in energy transformation, biodiversity conservation, and economic development which cover all the main pillars of sustainability," he said.

Sachs said every part of the world must transition to clean energy systems to achieve net-zero carbon goals and that Malaysia is actively contributing to that effort. 

"ASEAN, by working together, can harness diverse renewable energy sources such as hydropower, wind, solar, ocean, and geothermal power.

“The integration of these technologies will accelerate the region’s sustainable energy transformation," he said.

Sachs also said China, through its Belt and Road Initiative, could be a valuable partner in this effort, presenting tremendous opportunities for collaboration between ASEAN, China, and Malaysia, as the country has become a partner country of BRICS, which opens doors to even greater regional and global cooperation.

BRICS is an intergovernmental alliance that includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia and the United Arab Emirates.

"The East Asia region, including Northeast and Southeast Asia, is one of the world's most dynamic areas. By leveraging our technological capabilities and biodiversity, we can bring all the pieces together to achieve sustainable growth and energy transformation," he said.

-- BERNAMA