Musim Mas, Nestlé, and AAK Unite for Sustainable Palm Oil Initiative in Indonesia

In a significant step towards promoting sustainability in the palm oil industry, Musim Mas, Nestlé, and AAK have renewed their partnership for a fourth consecutive year. This collaborative endeavor continues to focus on supporting independent oil palm smallholders in Aceh Subulussalam, Indonesia. Since its inception in 2021, this initiative has remained committed to addressing crucial challenges related to deforestation and the associated environmental, social, and economic issues faced by smallholders.

At the center of this partnership is the Subulussalam Smallholders Hub, which serves as a landscape-based initiative spearheaded by Musim Mas. The hub specializes in educating smallholders and Village Extension Officers (VEOs) on Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and the principles of NDPE (No Deforestation, No Peat, No Exploitation). VEOs act as local trainers, thereby multiplying knowledge within their communities.

Over the past three years, the program has surpassed its initial expectations, providing training to 1,581 smallholders, significantly exceeding the original target of 1,250. Additionally, the program has successfully trained 117 VEOs, outpacing the target of 60. In this new phase, 20 of the top-performing VEOs will undertake advanced retraining designed to align with Indonesia's ISPO certification. This retraining includes educational modules on home composting, aimed at reducing the dependence on chemical fertilizers among smallholders.

With the renewal of their partnership in 2025, the initiative aims to train an additional 500 smallholders and 20 new VEOs as part of this advanced training track. Ultimately, this will increase the program's outreach to more than 2,000 smallholders and 40 VEOs with enhanced skills. This initiative not only strives for environmental benefits but also seeks to bolster long-term community resilience.

Musim Mas plans to introduce advanced training modules focused on diverse topics, such as support for women smallholders, engaging the youth, and enhancing financial literacy. Women will receive continued assistance in nutrition and business management, with initiatives aimed at involving male family members to create a more inclusive and supportive community environment.

Recognizing the necessity of engaging the youth, the program will extend outreach efforts that educate young people on sustainable agriculture practices, NDPE principles, and market expectations. Capacity-building platforms will be tailored to encourage innovation and commitment among young farmers, ensuring they are well-equipped for future challenges.

The initiative will also emphasize the importance of financial planning, crucial for smallholders facing palm replanting cycles. Training in financial management will empower them, allowing for informed decision-making that leads to sustained self-sufficiency. Musim Mas, Nestlé, and AAK remain dedicated to their shared vision of fostering inclusive and sustainable palm oil production in Aceh. With the impending implementation of the EUDR, this partnership serves as an essential support system to help smallholders navigate compliance challenges while maintaining their roles in global supply chains.

As these organizations continue to forge ahead, their commitment to empower local communities while promoting sustainable practices remains steadfast, marking a pivotal moment for the palm oil industry in Indonesia.