InfoSAWIT, JAKARTA – Certification programs such as the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO), Indonesian Sustainable Palm Oil (ISPO), and Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) in the palm oil plantation sector have been touted as solutions to ensure companies comply with sustainability standards. However, the reality on the ground reveals new issues that expose the ineffectiveness of these systems.
According to TPOLS Coordinator Rizal Assalam, the certification audit process is often rife with manipulation. "We have found instances where companies prepare scenarios for auditors to provide favorable reports. Serious violations are often concealed," Rizal stated during the End-of-Year Press Conference for Palm Oil Plantation Workers 2024, attended by InfoSAWIT on Friday (December 27, 2024).
One example is the practice of extending partnership contracts in plantations that should be limited by the moratorium on palm oil expansion. Many companies use the pretext of cooperation schemes with farmers to continue opening new land. Unfortunately, these schemes often lead farmers into debt of up to hundreds of millions of rupiah.
Farmers who were initially promised significant profits through partnerships with companies often feel trapped. "They end up bearing debts of up to Rp300 million, while the promised profits never materialize. Conflicts are inevitable," Rizal added.
This conflict is exacerbated by the use of violence. One recent case occurred in Seruyan Regency, Central Kalimantan, where Brimob personnel were deployed to confront farmers demanding their rights to 20% of the plasma land promised by the company.
Additionally, labor actions in plantations are often met with intimidation and criminalization. "Even though we have Law No. 21 of 2000 on Freedom of Association, union leaders in the plantation sector often face intimidation, destruction, and suppression," Rizal noted.
Another issue that has emerged is the condition of daily laborers in palm oil plantations. Rizal highlighted the lack of protection for those working without health guarantees or income certainty. "Daily laborers are one of the most vulnerable groups. They are often treated as cheap labor without adequate protection," he explained.
Stories from the Plantation Workers Union also reveal how palm oil expansion in various regions, such as Riau and West Kalimantan, negatively impacts the freedom of association and the welfare of workers.
Rizal called for comprehensive reform of the certification system and policies in the palm oil sector. "We need initiatives that are genuinely oriented towards justice for farmers and workers. Without that, issues like farmer debt, violence, and union suppression will continue to recur," he concluded.
This article serves as a reminder that behind the certification labels, many dark stories need to be uncovered . The government, companies, and society must work together to improve conditions in the palm oil sector for a more sustainable future. (T2)