Lifelong learning – a key to grow in palm oil industry - PT Sinar Mas Agro Resources and Technology Tbk (PT SMART Tbk)

Lifelong learning – a key to grow in palm oil industry

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Posted: Aug 07, 2024 • 3 minute read • SMART • 0 Likes

Muhammad Syahid, the General Manager of PT Sawit Nagan Raya Makmur (SNRM), one of GAR’s suppliers in Aceh, Indonesia, knows that it takes consistent learning to stay ahead of the curve. Initially skeptical, Syahid’s journey is one of embracing lifelong learning, evolving from doubt to becoming a passionate supporter of sustainable practices.

From a skeptic to an enthusiast

Palm oil has been Syahid’s stomping ground for over 30 years. In the early years, efficiency ruled the roost, and environmental concerns often took a backseat. Practices like deforestation for land clearing, while unfortunately common, left a nagging feeling that things could be done better. The question was: how to achieve both productivity and sustainability?

A turning point came in 2018 when SNRM joined GAR’s Supplier Transformation programme. This programme promised a roadmap for tackling these issues. Initially, Syahid admits, participation was just a way to maintain a strong partnership with GAR. He wasn’t entirely convinced that these sessions would offer real value.

But something unexpected happened. These sessions, initially seen as just formalities, blossomed into genuine learning experiences for Syahid. Since 2018, Syahid has thrown himself into everything offered, from Ksatria Sawit and Sawit Terampil training to workplace safety workshops and palm oil traceability sessions. A recent workshop on traceability and deforestation monitoring, particularly the No Deforestation, No Peat, and No Exploitation (NDPE) policies, opened his eyes to the depth and importance of sustainable practices.

*Syahid presenting key discussion points during GAR-facilitated workshop on traceability and NDPE policies in Aceh*

Reaping what he sowed

This newfound conviction wasn’t merely a change of heart; it also translated into action. Syahid, along with his team at PT SNRM, have implemented stricter protocols for sourcing Fresh Fruit Bunches (FFB). This includes tracking coordinates to palm oil mills, collecting data on agents and plantations, and closely monitoring land conversions.

This stricter approach is a result of the shift in his perspective. In the past, he might not have questioned the source as readily. But now, understanding the impact of deforestation, it’s become a non-negotiable priority. “Rejecting products that don’t meet the [NDPE] standard can be a difficult decision, especially in a competitive industry. However, it’s about taking a stand for what we believe in,” Syahid admitted.

“[Reaching a 100 percent ’Delivering’ status in the NDPE IRF] shows that the things we’ve learned can translate into real change, not just on paper, but in the real world.”

NDPE IRF
A framework within the palm oil industry to demonstrate compliance with the commitment of no deforestation, peatland development, and exploitation by breaking down the production into volumes that is compliant and that is progressing towards compliance.

#GARGlossary

For PT SNRM, reaching a 100 percent ‘Delivering’ status in the NDPE Implementation Reporting Framework (NDPE IRF) is a testament to the hard work of the entire team. At the same time, for Syahid, it’s also a validation of the transformative power of knowledge. “It shows that the things I’ve learned can translate into real change, not just on paper, but in the real world,” he said with a hint of pride.

Looking to the future

Syahid’s journey with sustainable palm oil doesn’t end with achieving a 100 percent ‘Delivering’ status in the NDPE IRF.

“Sure, we’ve achieved a significant milestone,” he says. “But there’s always room to do better.” Syahid envisions himself as a leader who can inspire other peers in the industry to raise the bar for responsible practices.

He believes there’s an opportunity to bridge the gap on NDPE knowledge by creating more transparency and building better communication between buyers and suppliers. “I look forward to joining more knowledge-sharing sessions, best practice guides, and even discussions on challenges and solutions related to NDPE compliance,” he said.

Syahid and team members — *As suppliers, Syahid (middle) and his team members show commitment to responsible sourcing through continuous learning*

With the knowledge to meet buyer requirements, suppliers like Syahid can create a more level playing field in the palm industry. This will offer them the opportunity to participate in the conversation on sustainable production practices as well as open doors to new business opportunities and premium prices for their products.

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To operate responsibly, GAR proactively traces our suppliers and engages them to improve their NDPE practices. Learn more about our supply chain transformation here.

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