InfoSAWIT, SERUYAN – The Seruyan District Government has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainability via the jurisdictional certification model of the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO). This response follows an online press conference held by civil society organizations, including WALHI Central Kalimantan, Save Our Borneo, and the Palangkaraya Legal Aid Institute, titled “Jurisdictional RSPO Certification in Seruyan District: Who Benefits?”
Since 2015, Seruyan has implemented the jurisdictional approach to establish a framework enabling palm oil stakeholders to transition towards sustainability. This model adapts RSPO initiatives to align with national regulations while involving multiple parties, including civil society, farmers, and businesses.
The process unfolds in stages, starting with sustainability commitments, followed by regulatory development and the implementation of certification principles and criteria. To date, Seruyan has enacted several regulations, including bylaws recognizing and protecting Indigenous communities and guidelines for resolving plantation business conflicts.
“This phased approach ensures that all requirements are met before certification is granted, avoiding greenwashing practices,” stated a Seruyan government representative on Tuesday, November 26, 2024.
The district emphasizes that only companies meeting sustainability criteria will be eligible for certification. As of now, five companies and two farmer organizations have expressed their willingness to participate in the certification process under the jurisdictional entity being established.
Although the Jurisdictional Entity is not yet fully operational, it is designed to function as an independent certification unit. Non-certifying members, such as companies already certified by RSPO, can join the platform without undergoing recertification, demonstrating broad industry support.
Conflict resolution remains a primary focus of the jurisdictional approach. The government has begun mapping conflicts and mediating disputes progressively. Some cases highlighted during the civil society press conference are currently being addressed.
“This approach requires dialogue and collaboration among all stakeholders, including civil society organizations, to find shared solutions. We invite all parties to participate in the Jurisdictional Certification Working Group to support sustainable plantations,” added the government representative.
Recognizing the challenges of the jurisdictional approach, Seruyan continues to enhance its capacity. By involving multiple stakeholders, the government aims to create a collaborative platform that advances palm oil sustainability while balancing economic, social, and environmental principles.
The Seruyan District Government emphasizes that sustainability is a long-term process requiring collective commitment to build a better future for communities and the environment. (T2)
