JENGKA: FGV Holdings Bhd (FGV) has expanded trials of its B100 biodiesel to plantation operations in a move to assess whether the palm oil-based fuel can withstand the demanding conditions of daily estate work.
Building on FGV’s earlier evaluation of B100 on-road vehicles, the six-month pilot programme, which began yesterday, is set to be implemented in phases at the Tun Abdul Razak Agricultural Research Centre (PPPTAR) estate in Jerantut.
FGV said plantation operations were selected for the trial, as machinery is subjected to extended operating hours, varied plantation terrain, high operational temperatures and differing workload demands across asset types.
It also said these assessments allow for the gathering of comprehensive real-world data while contributing to the industry’s knowledge and understanding of palm oil-based biodiesel applications within the plantation sector.
“The expansion reflects FGV’s commitment to unlocking new opportunities for palm oil through responsible and evidence-based innovation.
“Amid an increasingly challenging global landscape, our strategic commodity holds significant potential to further support the nation’s renewable energy agenda while enhancing the competitiveness of the palm oil industry,” said FGV chairman Datuk Abu Huraira Abu Yazid.
He added that the initiative goes beyond assessing the viability of B100.
“It reflects FGV’s commitment to creating greater value from palm oil through innovation that supports industry development, strengthens the Felda ecosystem and delivers meaningful benefits to the settler community,” Abu Huraira said.
Produced using 100% locally sourced palm oil with no fossil fuel content, B100 is part of FGV’s ongoing efforts to broaden the range of its downstream palm-based applications.
It is also adopting a data-driven approach to assess the B100’s viability in real-world operations before any consideration is given to wider implementation.
The pilot programme was launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in conjunction with Hari Peneroka Felda 2026 at Stadium Tun Abdul Razak here.
Also present were Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Pahang Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar, Felda director-general Datuk Dr Suzana Idayu Wati Osman as well as Felda and FGV board members and directors.
The pilot programme will involve approximately 17 units of machinery, including tractors, agricultural machinery, power generators and four-wheel drive vehicles used in daily plantation operations.
The company will also see individual assets monitored through a comprehensive technical assessment.
“This is set to cover fuel consumption, engine performance, operational reliability, maintenance requirements and fuel quality.
“Participating assets will undergo inspections and servicing prior to the trial.
“This aims to establish baseline performance benchmarks for reference through the evaluation period,” it said.
FGV also said it continues supporting the strengthening of the nation’s palm oil value chain through food products, consumer goods, oleochemicals and biofuels.
“Initiatives such as the B100 pilot demonstrate the company’s commitment to unlocking new opportunities for palm oil through research, innovation and technological development that support industry advancement, ensuring the sector remains relevant, competitive and sustainable,” said FGV.
