The unsung ‘gentleman’ of global sustainability

Worker issues: Increasing the oil palm yield in Malaysia is difficult as the country is very dependent on foreign labour to harvest the fruits. — AZHAR MAHFOF/The Star

PALM oil has come a long way since assuming leadership of the global oil and fats business. It accounts for the largest share – more than a third – of the world trade in oils and fats.

Malaysia can claim to have started the expansion, but Indonesia is now the largest producer. Malaysia is second.