Industry experts, diplomats and business leaders explored the “Sustainability of the Palm Oil Industry and its Derivative Products” at an international seminar on the topic held at COMSTECH headquarters in Islamabad on June 25 (Tuesday).
The Embassy of Indonesia and COMSTECH organized the seminar aimed to raise awareness about the sustainability and benefits of Indonesian palm oil and its derivative products. It highlighted the potential uses of palm oil beyond culinary applications, emphasizing its safety and health benefits.
COMSTECH Adviser Prof. Dr. Syed Khurshid Hasnain reiterated COMSTECH’s commitment to supporting natural products from OIC member countries. He emphasized the importance of applied research to harness these products for industrial purposes, benefiting the economies of OIC nations.
Indonesian Chargé D’Affaires Mr. Rahmat Hindiarta Kusuma underscored the significance of palm oil to Indonesia’s economy, contributing 4.5% to the GDP and employing over 17 million workers. He highlighted Indonesia’s eco-friendly and labor-friendly advancements in palm oil production and invited the Pakistani business community to the Trade Expo Indonesia 2024 to be held in October this year.
“Please keep up with the Indonesian palm oil in our bilateral trade relations, and let us make it as milestone to improve more trade volumes between the two countries,” he said.
The seminar revealed the industrial benefits of palm oil, which contains minerals advantageous for cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, paints, plastics, and biofuel. It also showcased scientific research on the health benefits of palm oil and Indonesia’s sustainable farming standards, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals.
Speakers included Prof. Dedi Budiman Hakim from Bogor Agricultural Institute, Mr. Rashed Jan Muhammad, President of BQATI, Prof. Muhammad Asim Shabir from the University of Faisalabad, Mr. Djono Albar Burhan from the Indonesia Palm Oil Association, Dr. Humaira Fatima from Quaid-e-Azam University, and Mr. Shahid Pervez, Secretary General of PVMA.
The event attracted a diverse audience of entrepreneurs, scholars, students, and journalists. Attendees received goodie bags from Indomie Pakistan, the world largest instant noodle brand based in Faisalabad, showcasing palm oil-based products.
Indonesia and COMSTECH have a strong history of collaboration in advancing science and technology among OIC countries. They plan to co-organize an exhibition on nutraceuticals and cosmetics with natural and halal ingredients later this year.