InfoSAWIT, SEKADAU – Efforts to promote sustainable palm oil practices have been reinforced through the launch of the Skilled and Sustainable Palm Oil Farmer Data Collection and Empowerment Program in Sekadau Regency. This program is a collaboration between PT Agro Andalan (PT AAN), the Palm Oil Farmers Union (SPKS), and PT Sinar Mas Agro Resources and Technology Tbk (SMART), supported by GIZ through the Sustainable Agriculture for Forest Ecosystems (SAFE) project.
The program launch took place at the Multi Hotel Auditorium in Sekadau, attended by the Regent of Sekadau, Aron SH, relevant government officials, representatives of farmers from 16 villages, and other strategic partners. In his remarks, Regent Aron expressed appreciation for the synergy among various parties in strengthening the capacity of local palm oil farmers.
“The acceleration of independent palm oil farmer development in Sekadau can only be realized if all parties synergize and collaborate. The challenges can only be overcome together,” emphasized Aron in an official statement received by InfoSAWIT on Friday, April 11, 2025.
This program aligns with the Sustainable Palm Oil Regional Action Plan outlined in the Regent's Regulation No. 26 of 2022. Its objectives include not only strengthening traceability in the supply chain but also supporting farmers' capacity to implement best agricultural practices (GAP), enhancing farmer institutions, and preparing them for ISPO and RSPO certification.
According to Imanuel Tibian, ESG Dept. Head of PT AAN, this initiative is strategic in ensuring the sustainability of the company's supply chain. “We aim to produce palm oil that is not only of high quality but also socially and environmentally responsible. Traceability is a crucial part of that commitment,” he stated.
Similarly, Helena Lumbangaol, a representative from PT SMART, emphasized that this program assists supplying farmers in managing their plantations effectively while ensuring that the CPO supplied by PT AAN comes from legitimate and sustainably managed sources. “All parties benefit from a more transparent and sustainable process,” she explained.
Meanwhile, Sabarudin, the Chairman of SPKS, highlighted the importance of this partnership in supporting independent farmers to meet global market demands for deforestation-free palm oil products. “Such partnerships are essential to ensure that Indonesian independent palm oil farmers remain part of the sustainable global supply chain,” he remarked.
This program is designed to run until the end of 2026, with hopes of accelerating the issuance of Cultivation Registration Certificates (STDB) for farmers and better preparing them for ISPO certification processes. (T2)
