InfoSAWIT, BOGOR – The Smallholder Palm Oil Farmers Union (SPKS) is intensifying efforts to improve the productivity and sustainability of smallholder palm oil plantations. Through a series of training programs and collaborations with key stakeholders, SPKS aims to address the challenges faced by independent palm oil farmers, particularly in obtaining sustainable certifications and improving yields.
SPKS Chairman Sabarudin emphasized the importance of adopting best and sustainable cultivation practices to boost productivity, which currently averages only 3 tons per hectare annually. "Our national work plan focuses on accelerating ISPO (Indonesian Sustainable Palm Oil) and RSPO (Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil) certifications. We aim to train over 1,000 farmers in 2025," he stated during a discussion with InfoSAWIT in late January 2025.
One of the major hurdles for SPKS members is the lengthy process of obtaining technical recommendations (Rekomtek) from the Directorate General of Plantations, a prerequisite for ISPO certification. Sabarudin revealed that the process can take up to a year, delaying farmers' access to markets that prioritize sustainably produced palm oil.
In addition to certification delays, independent farmers face high costs for fertilizers and plantation maintenance, coupled with low selling prices for their harvests. "Many farmers sell their produce quickly to middlemen due to financial pressures, which results in lower prices," Sabarudin explained.
To address these challenges, SPKS is calling for stronger support from the government, particularly the Ministry of Agriculture and the Directorate General of Plantations. Sabarudin highlighted the need for assistance in mapping farmers' land polygons and accelerating land legality processes, which are critical for the success of the Smallholder Palm Oil Rejuvenation (PSR) program.
"The government’s efforts to accelerate PSR must also include helping farmers meet the necessary requirements. We must ensure that legal issues do not become new obstacles or sources of fear for farmers," Sabarudin added.
Independent palm oil farmers often face issues of criminalization and intimidation, leading to trauma and fear among SPKS members. To address this, SPKS has collaborated with the National Police Headquarters, particularly the Economic Intelligence Agency (Baintelkam), to ensure farmers comply with legal frameworks and receive protection.
"Thank you to the National Police Headquarters, especially Brigadier General Ratno Kuncoro, as well as representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture, BPDPKS, and ASD Bakrie, for their support and participation in this event," Sabarudin expressed.
The SPKS discussion, held on January 24, 2025, brought together stakeholders from various sectors, including the Directorate General of Plantations, BPDPKS, ASD Bakrie, and Baintelkam POLRI. Farmers from key palm oil-producing regions such as Aceh, North Sumatra, Riau, West Kalimantan, East Kalimantan, West Sulawesi, Central Sulawesi, and Southeast Sulawesi also attended the event.
Through these collaborative efforts, SPKS aims to create a more sustainable and equitable palm oil industry. By addressing certification delays, productivity challenges, and legal issues, SPKS hopes to empower independent farmers and improve their livelihoods.
As the palm oil industry continues to evolve, the role of smallholder farmers remains crucial. With the support of stakeholders and the government, SPKS is paving the way for a more productive, sustainable, and inclusive future for Indonesia’s palm oil sector. (T2)