MALAYSIA TO CHANGE NEGATIVE PERCEPTIONS OF PALM OIL lN FRANCE

Adapted from The Borneo Post

PARIS: Reflecting on the Working Visit of YB Datuk Seri Mah Siew Keong, Minister of Plantation Industries and Commodities of Malaysia (YB MPIC) to France, on 6-8 September 2016, HE Dato’ Ibrahim Abdullah, Ambassador of Malaysia to France said the success in gaining consumer acceptance of palm oil would mean messages from politicians would have to be tailored accordingly. Through our approach of having open, cordial and long-term engagements with French politicians, officials, and the grassroots, Malaysia hopes to be able to rebalance the conversation. Even though engagements with politicians and officials are important, emphasis should also be given towards winning the hearts and minds of consumers. Since politicians are usually expected to represent the preferences of their constituents, the former will change their message to entice the latter.

HE Dato’ Ibrahim Abdullah pointed out that in preparation for future challenges, it would be paramount for all Malaysian agencies to continue existing cooperation so that the truth about the palm oil industry in Malaysia could be championed. “Moving forward, all opportunities for Malaysia to articulate our position on palm oil and the importance of the issue to us have to be explored. “Building on the positive momentum we have been able to generate, it would be worth considering looking into platforms such as public awareness campaigns to reach out and sensitise consumers of all ages to the positive social, environmental, and health impact of palm oil,” he said.

In outreach programmes to be considered, Ibrahim said it would be worthwhile to pursue approaches that resonate with younger audiences who are ready to form their opinion on the benefits of palm oil.

Ibrahim said Malaysia is also committed to the sustainability initiative and sustainable development goals in accordance with its commitments as global citizens. “Often overlooked, the definition of sustainability should encompass the well-being of the vulnerable sections of society,” he said.

YB MPIC visited France to gauge the position of the French, present Malaysia’s views on the palm oil industry, and touch base with counterparts. In the engagements, Malaysia took the opportunity to broadcast the right messages with the proper background and tone. Since sustainability cannot be quantified, measured, and defined, using it as a trade tool will cause a lot of complications. As it stands, livestock is the single largest anthropogenic user of agricultural land (71.27%). By contrast, palm oil occupies 0.31% of agricultural land. In this context, a significant challenge would be applying French standards of sustainability, whatever it may be, to the entire agricultural industry.

During the meetings, YB MPIC had also provided updates on the Malaysian palm oil industry, as well as drum up support and recognition for the progress made without needing to be nudged on the path of maintaining the country’s commitments in the industry.

 YB Datuk Seri Mah Siew Keong, Minister of Plantation Industries and Commodities of Malaysia meeting Mr. Razzi Hammadi, Rapporteur on Food Taxation at La Traboule, Chef David Martin’s Restaurant