#Indonesia #Nestlé #Musim Mas #AAK #Aceh Subulussalam

Overview

In a significant move towards sustainability in palm oil production, Musim Mas, Nestlé, and AAK have renewed their partnership for the fourth consecutive year. This collaboration is vital for empowering independent oil palm smallholders in Aceh Subulussalam, Indonesia, particularly focusing on addressing environmental, social, and economic challenges faced by these farmers.

Background

Initiated in 2021, the partnership has been instrumental in promoting sustainable agricultural practices among smallholders. The core of this initiative is the Subulussalam Smallholders Hub, which trains farmers and Village Extension Officers (VEOs) in Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) as well as NDPE principles — No Deforestation, No Peat, and No Exploitation. These VEOs act as local trainers, spreading knowledge within their communities, thereby fostering an environment of collaboration and growth.

Achievements

Over the past three years, the program has surpassed its initial expectations, having trained 1,581 smallholders compared to an initial target of 1,250, and 117 VEOs against a target of 60. The advanced training, particularly aimed at 20 high-performing VEOs, includes modules aligned with the Indonesian ISPO certification requirements, focusing on home composting practices to reduce dependency on chemical fertilizers.

With the renewed partnership in 2025, the initiative aims to onboard an additional 500 smallholders and 20 VEOs into this advanced training program, pushing the total to over 2,000 smallholders and 40 VEOs with elevated skills. This expansion not only addresses environmental goals but also seeks to enhance the long-term resilience of farming communities.

Future Goals

Musim Mas manages plans for the introduction of new training modules tailored for female smallholders, while also providing financial literacy programs aimed at engaging youth and promoting community resilience. Importantly, these new educational initiatives seek to include male family members, fostering inclusive environments that support women in nutrition and business management.

The focus on youth engagement is particularly noteworthy. The program will provide youth-oriented resources related to sustainable agriculture, NDPE practices, and market expectations. Custom platforms to build capacity among young farmers will be developed to foster innovation and active participation in sustainable farming initiatives.

Moreover, the initiative will address the pressing need for financial planning, especially as smallholders prepare for the replanting cycles of oil palms. Training in financial management will empower them to make informed decisions for maintaining their independence in the long term.

Commitment to Sustainable Palm Oil

Musim Mas, Nestlé, and AAK reaffirm their shared vision for an inclusive and sustainable palm oil production model in Aceh. As regulatory frameworks such as the EUDR approach implementation, this partnership also serves as a crucial mechanism for aiding smallholders in complying with regulatory requirements while ensuring their active participation in global supply chains.

Conclusion

This renewed partnership emphasizes the commitment of Musim Mas, Nestlé, and AAK towards fostering sustainable and responsible palm oil production. By focusing on comprehensive developmental aspects, from environmental conservation to community empowerment, the trio is setting a noteworthy precedent for collaborations in agricultural sustainability.