KOTA BHARU — Geopolitical conflicts such as the Israel-Iran crisis and the Russia-Ukraine war have disrupted Malaysia’s palm oil export routes to certain markets, prompting the government to explore new trade opportunities.
Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani said Malaysia currently exports about RM186 billion worth of goods annually, including palm oil, but some destinations are now considered high-risk zones due to ongoing conflicts.
“As such, we are exploring new markets — namely countries that have yet to purchase Malaysian palm oil or cooking oil. This is crucial to ensure our export levels remain stable,” he said, Bernama reported.
He added that Malaysia currently trades with nearly 80 countries, and plans are in place to widen that reach even further.
Speaking to reporters after attending the Dialogue with KPK programme at MARA Poly-Tech College in Kota Bharu today, Johari also urged plantation operators and smallholders to collaborate with the government to strengthen the national commodities sector on the global stage.
“The European market is increasingly emphasising environmental sustainability and biodiversity-friendly practices in palm oil procurement.
“To enter their markets, we must prove that our plantations comply with sustainability principles and preserve biodiversity,” he said.
Johari also stressed the importance of service quality to retain new customers.
“We’re asking them to buy more from us — but the service we provide is just as important,” he said. — June 21, 2025