KUALA LUMPUR: Creative and innovative ways in utilising technology are crucial to maintain the palm oil industry’s competitive advantage, said Council of Palm Oil Producing Countries executive director Tan Sri Dr Datuk Yusof Basiron.

       He said there have been various types of technological innovations that have been developed and commercialised, providing solutions to the industry such as for disease control and pest control, as well as machineries to harvest and transport fresh fruit bunches.

       “In keeping with the spirit and aspirations of Malaysia’s National Transformation 2050 (TN50), disruptive technologies will be the driver of innovations across all sectors, including the palm oil sector.

       “The vision and transformative pathways of TN50 is aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the targets of the Paris Agreement,” he said in his opening remarks at a webinar on “How Technology Is Elevating Sustainability in Palm Oil Industry” yesterday.

       Yusof said industry players need to learn to adapt to these disruptive technologies in the palm oil industry and, at the same time, ensure that sustainability factors are met. — Bernama