RECENTLY, the largest producer and exporter of palm oil in the world, Indonesia, announced that it will stop exports of the commodity.

Our neighbour did not provide any clear reason as to why it has taken this drastic decision, but industry players like us believe that it has just grown sick and tired.

Yes, the Indonesian authorities just have had enough of the baseless, constant criticisms hurled against palm oil.

We can clearly say all these allegations are baseless and without any proven facts whatsoever.

Indonesia and Malaysia, which produce about 90% of global palm oil exports, have been the victims of baseless allegations for too long.

Indonesia is able to pull the brakes on its palm oil exports because consumption by its 300 million people will be enough to ensure its demand.

The sad part is, despite all these allegations, what the critics fail to see is that the rising world population needs more edible oils.

India and China, which are the world’s most populated nations, are among the largest importers of palm oil, and despite all the allegations, the European Union is also a major importer.

The use of palm oil is not only for cooking but also for a host of other things, such as cosmetics and medicine.

Unlike Indonesia, we are unable to pull the brakes on our palm oil exports as the commodity is a major contributor to the national GDP.

Malaysia needs to continue fighting these allegations and prove to the world the truth and benefits of our palm oil.

We must rally support behind efforts by the Plantation Industries and Commodities Ministry, led by Zuraida Kamaruddin.

It is good that we have a strong, aggressive minister in Zuraida, who does not succumb to the pressures of the West and is persistent in fighting on.

We, in the industry, also commend her for her efforts in opening up new markets for our palm oil, including storage facilities abroad.

Malaysia cannot give in to the West. We must continue to fight as this concerns the welfare of each and every one of us.

We are a strong and proud nation and will not give in to baseless allegations and pressure. – April 29, 2022.

* Abdul Rahim Hussein reads The Malaysian Insight.

* This is the opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malaysian Insight. Article may be edited for brevity and clarity.