The beginner’s guide to palm oil

Malaysia is renowned for a great many things; amazing tourism, delicious food, and great culture, just to name a few. But did you know that they also account for 39% of the world palm oil production? That statistic alone makes Malaysia the second largest grower and exporter of palm oil in the world today. It goes without saying that Malaysia plays a pivotal role in fulfilling the constant and rapidly growing global needs for sustainable fats and oils.

We live in a very fast-paced reality. The buzz of the city takes away from the time we would otherwise have spent in thought about our surroundings. The long hours at work singularise to making it through the day and look longingly forward to the moment we get to retire to our beds. Ultimately, also most tragically, we take things for granted. This 2019, we want to take a step forward in appreciation and reflect on one of the main stars (albeit a greatly unappreciated one) in the story of our lives.

Palm oil has come a long way from the days of its infancy during the British Colonial Occupation. Since then, as one of the most affordable and ( thanks in part to Malaysia ) now readily accessible oils, palm oil has seen a steady rise in popularity with regard to its utilisation. From being implemented at one end of the spectrum with consumables like everyday food to the other end with products like lotions and soaps. Palm oil has become a central ingredient in many everyday products in our lives and many of us are still none the wiser.

One may be surprised by how frequently palm oil is encountered throughout the day. In the morning; bread, margarine and even certain cheeses have it in its list of ingredients. Then we have to also consider the Malaysian classic; instant noodles. Could you imagine a reality where you venture into a mamak store without your go-to Maggi order available? Even some of your favourite chocolate brands include it!

You may be surprised to know that there is also a good scientific reason behind the “why”. Palm oil is arguably a better choice ( a cheaper one certainly), as it is a healthier alternative in comparison to some of its more common alternatives such as canola or sunflower oils ; naturally void of cholesterol and trans-fats, as well as being rich in antioxidant properties such as vitamins A and E. So perhaps it is a blessing in disguise that palm oil is so seamlessly integrated into so many daily consumables. It is packed with benefits!

With all the wonders palm oil does for you internally, it is valuable to note that it does just as many miracles for you when applied externally too. For example, certain hair oils and soaps use it in their formulations. As mentioned previously, palm oil is high in vitamin E. The same vitamin E in palm oil is typically found in anti-aging cosmetics found in the market today, making it a dominant product to consider for anyone interested in healthier hair and skin.

The uses of palm oil are not limited, however, to products available in the consumer market. The nature of its production and the scale of which it is conducted in Malaysia has opened the door to a wide slew of employment opportunities. Historically, palm oil has even played a significant role in alleviating afflictions of poverty throughout the region dating back to as early as the days of the 1960s. As of 2019, the industry has successfully lifted more than 1 million people out of poverty.

It is certainly not every day that industry gives back to the community as much as palm oil has!

That is just one behind the many reasons as to what makes Malaysian palm oil, in particular, a 5-star product, supported by 5 strong pillars; country, food, health, people and planet.

Most crucially, palm oil has aided our efforts in nation building by maintaining a steady annual income, thanks largely in part to its heavy contributions in both the aspects of exporting and production, to the industry across the world. Commendably, they have even achieved all that they have with strict adherence to the ‘Good Agricultural Practices’ (GAP’s), which include cover cropping and waste recycling.

It is undeniable, that Malaysian palm oil has provided a multitude of benefits and contributions to both its nation and the rest of the world. In that vein, the Ministry of Primary Industries is seeking to enhance the understanding and create a better appreciation that this revolutionary product deserves with their “Love MY Palm Oil” Campaign. The campaign seeks to reinstate the local pride and appreciation for our local product through programmes of an educational nature on a national level.

Let us all come together to support one of the nation’s greatest pride.

Visit ‘Love MY Palm Oil’ now to stay up to date on all the exciting activities and events that have been lined up.