JAKARTA, Feb 13 (NNN-ANTARA) – Indonesia is committed to increasing palm oil productivity through sustainable practices, to support food self-sufficiency, energy security, and natural resource down-streaming, a senior official said, yesterday.
“The government wants our palm oil to be sustainable,” said Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Sudaryono, at the 7th International Conference on Palm Oil & Environment 2025 in Bali.
He noted that, enhancing productivity is crucial to meeting both food and energy demands, without harming the environment.
Sudaryono explained that, palm oil production can be increased through intensification, which involves using high-quality seeds, improved governance, and better maintenance on existing land, without expanding plantations. Meanwhile, extensification must be carried out without deforestation, guided by comprehensive environmental studies and sustainable practices.
During the event, Sudaryono welcomed discussions on palm oil research, covering topics such as seeds, fertilisers, climate change, technology, and artificial intelligence (AI), all of which are critical for boosting productivity while maintaining sustainability.
“What we seek is a balance between food and energy needs, while protecting the environment. If the environment is damaged, sustainability cannot be maintained,” he said.– NNN-ANTARA
