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.
“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.
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).
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.
