The Procter & Gamble (P&G) Centre for Sustainable Small-owners (CSS) announced the launch of its latest publication, “Road to Certified Sustainable Palm Oil: A Guide to Continuous Improvement and Yield Intensification,” to share fundamental strategy for smallholder farmers in increasing crop yields, maintaining sustainable farming practices and qualifying for premiums, according to a press statement circulated by CSS on Nov 12.

Malaysia is the second largest palm oil producer globally. There are over 275,000 independent palm oil smallholder farmers in Malaysia, who collectively account for an estimated 17% of total oil palm planted area in the country.

CSS Research indicates that the targeted yield gain of 20-25% is attainable among independent smallholders for oil palm. Guidance and tools can help smallholders and groups maintain their RSPO¹ certification and benefit from eligible premiums.

“Achieving the RSPO Independent Smallholder Standard certification is a significant milestone for the independent smallholders in Batu Pahat and Pontian districts (in Johor),” said Dr Asad Ata, Director of CSS, adding that, “CSS has recorded an increase in yield of palm fruit by 20% to 25%. The certified farmers have qualified for premiums over US$90,000 in the past three years.”

Building upon the success of the previous publication in 2023, this guide addresses the critical need for continuous improvement among independent smallholders in the palm oil industry, serving as a valuable resource for smallholder farmers, group managers, farmer associations, Npn-Governmental Organisations (NGO), multinational corporations, technical assistance providers, certification bodies, as well as academia.

CSS is a research centre launched in 2019 by funding from P&G to be housed within the Asia School of Business (ASB). The centre is committed to empowering and improving smallholders’ livelihood through training and implementation of sustainable best agricultural practices in accordance with global standards.

P&G serves consumers around the world with one of the strongest portfolios of trusted, quality consumer brands. The group is praised for its Responsible Palm Sourcing Programme in protecting the environment.