InfoSAWIT, BANGKOK – M. Ismael P. Sinaga, Head of the North Sumatra Department of Labor, addressed key issues surrounding worker welfare in the palm oil sector during a Palm Oil Plantation Worker Welfare Talkshow in Bangkok on Monday, November 11, 2024. The event brought together stakeholders to discuss and share solutions for improving the lives of workers in the palm oil industry.
In his remarks, Ismael praised the event and expressed hope that similar forums could be held annually, not only for the palm oil sector but across various industries. “Forums like this should be held every year, as these discussions are essential for enhancing workers' quality of life and maintaining our product competitiveness in the global market,” he noted.
Ismael emphasized the government’s role in keeping palm oil prices competitive while also ensuring the welfare of its workers. He highlighted the “Asta Cita” vision set forth by the President of Indonesia, which includes downstreaming the palm oil industry as a strategic step to boost Indonesia's economic value.
On Wednesday, November 13, 2024, InfoSAWIT reported on Ismael’s detailed outline of the four pillars of the Asta Cita vision for the palm oil sector, emphasizing priorities that could drive a strong and equitable economy. First, he called for expanding the benefits of the palm oil industry to reach workers directly. Second, he highlighted the importance of quality education through vocational training and skills improvement programs. Third, he advocated for clean governance, with strict oversight to prevent illegal practices in plantations. Lastly, he stressed the need to improve healthcare access for plantation workers.
“North Sumatra, Riau, Central Kalimantan, and South Kalimantan are prime regions for palm oil downstream development in Indonesia,” Ismael noted, underscoring the significant potential of these areas to advance both the national downstreaming vision and the welfare of palm oil workers.
Ismael expressed his hopes that the Bangkok event would strengthen collaboration among the government, industry players, and international organizations in creating a competitive and worker-friendly palm oil sector. (T2)
