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The Malaysian Ministry of Plantation and Commodities is evaluating a proposal to bolster strategic cooperation with Indonesia focused on the prevention and containment of forest and land fires. This initiative is expected to be channeled through international bodies, including the Council of Palm Oil Producing Countries (CPOPC).
According to a statement from the ministry, the proposed collaboration would facilitate information sharing and joint mitigation efforts in Kalimantan. This move comes in response to reports suggesting a link between certain Malaysian plantation firms and recent fire outbreaks in Indonesia. The ministry stated that it takes the findings of organizations such as Greenpeace and Pantau Gambut seriously, particularly regarding the detrimental effects on public health and the regional environment.
On September 10, the Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB) conducted an engagement session with six Malaysian companies to gather data on the fire situation and evaluate the preventive protocols currently in place across their operating areas. The ministry confirmed that it receives regular feedback to ensure continuous monitoring of the situation.
Regarding allegations involving PT Menteng Jaya Sawit Perdana (PT MJSP), a subsidiary of Kuala Lumpur Kepong Bhd (KLK), the ministry acknowledged KLK's formal explanation issued on October 6. In its defense, KLK asserted that PT MJSP strictly adheres to a zero-burning policy and has not engaged in any replanting activities. The company further clarified that the majority of the fires originated outside its concession boundaries and detailed the comprehensive control measures it has implemented.
Moving forward, the ministry emphasized that Malaysian enterprises operating abroad must comply with the legal frameworks of their host nations. This includes implementing robust fire prevention strategies and addressing the risks of fires spreading from adjacent territories. The MPOB remains committed to tracking developments and obtaining updated information from firms in Kalimantan to ensure the palm oil industry operates sustainably and responsibly.
Source: NST Online