InfoSAWIT, JAKARTA – Asian Agri and Apical, two leading companies in the palm oil industry, reaffirmed their commitment to sustainability through the AsianAgri2030 and Apical2030 initiatives. During a media gathering and iftar event, both companies shared updates on the implementation of these programs since their launch in 2022.
Johan Kurniawan, Director of Corporate Affairs for RGE Palm Business, emphasized that the sustainability commitments of Asian Agri and Apical align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) and the RGE philosophy of 5Cs – Good for Community, Country, Climate, Customer, and Company. He also highlighted the strategic role of palm oil in the national economy, including its contribution to foreign exchange and the improvement of farmers' welfare through partnership programs and plasma schemes.
Progress of AsianAgri2030: Focus on Partnerships and Inclusive Growth
Asian Agri continues to enhance the welfare of its partner farmers with a target of achieving Indonesian Sustainable Palm Oil (ISPO) certification for all farmers by 2025. Leonardo Yapardi, Sustainability Manager at Asian Agri, revealed that as of 2024, 11 cooperatives have obtained ISPO certification, representing 49% of the target.
Under the Inclusive Growth pillar, Asian Agri has provided vocational training to over 1,700 individuals and supported the establishment of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in 54 out of 159 villages surrounding its operational areas in North Sumatra, Riau, and Jambi. The "Bag-to-School" education program has also distributed over 1,300 educational packages to elementary, middle, and high school students, with a target of reaching 5,000 students.
"The sustainability of the palm oil industry heavily relies on the welfare of farmers. Therefore, we continue to accelerate ISPO certification and the economic development of partner villages to create a better palm oil ecosystem," Leonardo stated during the event attended by InfoSAWIT on Friday (March 14, 2025).
Apical2030: Empowering Farmers and Reducing GHG Emissions
Meanwhile, Apical has reported positive developments in the implementation of Apical2030, particularly in the Sustainable Living Villages (SLV) program, which has reached 12 villages in Aceh Singkil and 3 villages in Kutai Timur. This program encourages communities to develop alternative sources of income, such as Trigona honey and cocoa cultivation.
Hendra Hosea, Sustainability Manager at Apical, stated that through SLV, Apical assists independent farmers in sustainable farming practices, including obtaining a Cultivation Registration Certificate (STDB) as a preliminary step towards ISPO and RSPO certification.
Additionally, Apical continues the SMILE (Smallholder Inclusion for Better Livelihood & Empowerment) program in collaboration with Asian Agri and KAO. To date, this program has involved 3,489 farmers, with 1,373 farmers successfully obtaining RSPO certification.
In terms of environmental impact, Apical has made progress towards its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction target. From a goal of reducing emissions by 50% by 2030, the company has achieved a 21% reduction so far. Furthermore, from a target of collaborating with suppliers to achieve 100% adherence to NDPE (No Deforestation, No Peat, No Exploitation) principles, Apical has reached 93%.
Asian Agri and Apical are committed to continuously developing sustainability programs to ensure a more environmentally friendly and inclusive palm oil industry. With a long-term strategy in place, both companies are optimistic about achieving all their targets within the next five years.
"We believe that sustainability is not only the responsibility of the companies but also of all stakeholders. Therefore, we will continue to synergize with the government, farmers, and communities to ensure a more sustainable palm oil industry," concluded Hendra. (T2)
