EMPA preparing planters for MSPO certification

TAWAU: The East Malaysia Planters’ Association (EMPA) is taking a proactive step to ensure its members are prepared for the Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) Certification which has been made mandatory and deadline is approaching.

The deadline for estate of 40.46 hectares and below is on December 31, this year and for estate of 40.47 heactares and above is June 30, 2019.

EMPA has collaborated with TUV NORD (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, to organize a 10-day intensive training course for preparation towards getting ready for MSPO. The training program is designed as a leadership program for owners and managers of oil palm estates.

Participants will be able to gain a better understanding of practical steps to prepare growers to be ready for MSPO certification.

Tee Seng Heng from the Management Committee of EMPA said there would be two sessions for this training course.

The training is delivered in interactive workshops and will include practical exercises and estate visits.

The first session started on Monday here in Tawau, with 18 members of EMPA, whereby the second session is scheduled for October.

“There are seven principles for MSPO standards, i.e. Management commitment and responsibility; Transparency; Compliance to legal requirements; Social responsibility, health, safety and employment condition; Environment, natural resources, biodiversity and ecosystem services; Best practices; and Development of new plantings,” he said.