Petaling Jaya, Selangor – The Malaysian Palm Oil Council (MPOC) successfully held its inaugural EduPalm Programme, designed to provide students and educators with an in-depth understanding of the Malaysian palm oil industry. This three-day event, taking place from 26 to 28 July 2024 at SD Guthrie Ecogardens in Banting, Selangor, marked the debut of Malaysia’s first comprehensive palm oil education programme.
The inaugural session hosted 69 participants from Universiti Malaya and Universiti Putra Malaysia, including those attending under the banner of Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) Malaysia. The EduPalm Programme aims to become a biannual event, extending its reach to students and educators nationwide. An upcoming session for secondary school teachers in the Klang Valley is scheduled for later this year.
Participants benefited from a diverse learning experience that included informative presentations on the sustainability, health benefits, and socio-economic impacts of palm oil. The programme featured a “Know Your Palm Oil” (KYPO) field trip, led by SD Guthrie, offering a first-hand look at the palm oil plantation ecosystem.
To reinforce their learning, participants engaged in the “PalmAdventure Race,” an interactive outdoor game developed by MPOC, which combines fun with educational challenges designed to deepen their understanding of the industry.
Ms. Belvinder Sron, CEO of MPOC, highlighted the importance of public awareness regarding the palm oil industry’s sustainability efforts. “Palm oil is a significant contributor to Malaysia’s GDP, yet it often faces criticism due to environmental and social concerns. The EduPalm Programme bridges this gap by engaging future leaders – university students and secondary school teachers – in a dynamic learning experience focused on the palm oil industry’s sustainability,” she said.
MPOC anticipates the EduPalm Programme’s growth, fostering a generation that understands palm oil’s economic and sustainable importance. Related initiatives include school outreach programmes, and collaboration with Les’ Copaque to produce ‘Upin & Ipin’ educational episodes, all designed to raise awareness and appreciation of Malaysia’s palm oil industry among young Malaysians.
