KUCHING: The continued existence of the misleading ‘No Palm Oil’ labels has prompted the Datametrics Research and Information Centre (DARE) to call for a robust and informed public dialogue on the economic and environmental impacts of palm oil production in Malaysia.
The labels are still appearing across local supermarkets despite prohibitions under the Trade Descriptions Act 2011 (Act 730).
DARE said the misinformation surrounding palm oil carries grave consequences for Malaysian smallholders and the international market.
Further compounding the issue is the fact that the labels not only violate local laws but also jeopardise an economic lifeline crucial to millions of Malaysians involved in the palm oil industry.
“Palm oil is a cornerstone of Malaysia’s economy, contributing close to RM138 billion to our export value last year alone.
“It is crucial to recognise not only the economic but also the sustainable advances the industry has made, despite the misleading ‘No Palm Oil’ labels that contradict our Trade Descriptions Act,” said DARE managing director Pankaj Kumar.
Stressing the importance of palm oil in feeding a growing global population, he said palm oil occupies just 0.5 per cent of global agricultural land used for the cultivation of vegetable oils, but contributes over 54 per cent of the global edible oils and fats exports.
“Furthermore, the strides Malaysia has made in sustainable practices, as evidenced by the Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) certification, ensures full supply chain traceability and adherence to stringent auditing standards,” he added.
He urged stakeholders and consumers to recognise the role of local certification schemes like the MSPO in supporting due diligence and risk mitigation in the palm oil supply chain.
“The organisation advocates a narrative that reflects the high sustainability standards and community empowerment efforts within the industry,” he said.
He also said the misconceptions about palm oil not only threaten Malaysia’s economy but also undermine the global efforts in promoting ethical and environmentally sound agricultural practices.
“Thus, it is time for a collaborative and informed conversation which acknowledges the real strides made in the palm oil industry,” he said.
Ultimately, he said the future of palm oil, according to the research centre, depends on informed decision-making and equitable dialogue that upholds fairness, sustainability, and prosperity for all involved.
In June this year, the MPOC has also urged retailers to remove all products and advertising materials displayed and sold that bear any discriminatory logos against palm oil from their premises.
Failing to do so, they could face a fine of RM250,000 or jail time not exceeding five years. The regulations under Section 69 of the Trade Description Act 2011 prohibit any person in the course of any business or trade, or in any advertisement, to use any statement, expression, or indication that discriminates against or boycotts palm oil products.
The regulations came into effect in March 2022 and after a year of grace period, and its enforcement has now come into full force.
