Sustainability of Malaysian Oil Palm: A Critical Review

Abstract

Despite some industrial disruption, palm oil is still among the strongest industry of Malaysia. This journey of excellence towards becoming the global leader is getting momentum by support from MPOB, a leader in palm oil research across the globe. This study is to assess the oil palm smallholder activities in Malaysia in order to ensure the sustainability to face the global challenges and competitions of the international markets. Thus, the industry is emerging not only as a dependable source of economic empowerment of the country, but also posing a serious threat towards ecological and social balance due to unawareness of the sustainability issues. With their outstanding share, the industry has potential to lead the market in the near future, but in the way of expansion it must focus on the sustainability issues especially related to environment, economy and society, which can adversely or constructively influence the industry and its production.