Latest news with #PlantationandCommodities
New Straits Times
4 days ago
- Business
- New Straits Times
Government to study SST impact on rubber industry, says Johari Ghani
KUALA LUMPUR: The government is in the midst of gathering detailed feedback from industry players regarding the implementation of the five per cent sales and service tax (SST) on the domestic rubber ecosystem. Minister of Plantation and Commodities Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani said the move is necessary to ensure that the impact of the tax is comprehensively assessed before any further action is taken. "I am currently gathering information from industry players. Once we have it, we will assess the impact and I will bring it to the attention of the honourable Prime Minister," he told reporters at the launch of Industry Linkage Fund 2.0 (ILF 2.0) here today.
Borneo Post
5 days ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
Malaysia-China Friendship Association Sabah opens new office, ushering in new era of regional cooperation
Tun Musa and Chan browsing through a photo exhibition at the venue, accompanied by Dr Oh. KOTA KINABALU (June 16): The Malaysia-China Friendship Association Sabah celebrated a major milestone with the official opening of its new office, marking a fresh chapter in fostering stronger Malaysia-China relations. The inauguration ceremony was officiated by Head of State Tun Musa Aman, and attended by distinguished guests, including Deputy Minister of Plantation and Commodities Datuk Chan Foong Hin. In his keynote address, the association's president, Dr Oh Ei Sun, emphasized the organization's unwavering commitment since its establishment in 2012 to deepening cultural, economic, and educational exchanges between the two nations. 'Since our founding, we have remained committed to promoting Malaysia-China friendship and deepening people-to-people exchanges. We have served as a bridge in diverse areas such as the economy, education and culture,' said Dr Oh. He noted that the opening of the new premises represents more than a mere relocation — it is a strategic leap in the association's ability to operate at higher standards and expand its reach across Sabah and the broader Borneo region. 'This symbolizes a new beginning for our organizational development, service capabilities and international outreach,' he said. 'We are now better positioned to contribute meaningfully to Malaysia-China cooperation.' Looking ahead, Dr Oh outlined the association's three strategic priorities: 1. Strengthening collaboration with local governments and Chinese institutions to drive trade and investment, 2. Expanding cultural, educational and tourism exchange platforms, and 3. Activating the new office as a multifunctional hub for dialogue, innovation and partnership. 'We envision this space as a vibrant hub where members, community stakeholders and business partners can collaborate and grow together,' he added.
New Straits Times
7 days ago
- Business
- New Straits Times
Johari Ghani happy with current ministry, leaves Cabinet reshuffle to PM
PADANG TERAP: Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani has expressed his satisfaction with his current role as Plantation and Commodities Minister, despite ongoing speculation naming him as a potential candidate for the Economy Minister portfolio in the event of a Cabinet reshuffle. The Titiwangsa member of parliament said the ministry plays a crucial role in national economic development, particularly in generating income for rural communities and boosting export revenue through key commodities. "That is not within my purview. I'm happy at the Ministry of Plantation and Commodities. "This is one of the ministries that can also serve rural communities and support the growth of industry players," said Johari, who is also Umno vice-president, after opening the Padang Terap Umno division delegates' meeting at the Padang Kerasak Community Centre in Naka today. Also present was state Umno liaison committee chairman and Padang Terap Umno division chief, Datuk Seri Mahdzir Khalid. Commenting on speculation regarding his possible appointment as Economy Minister, Johari said the matter was entirely at the discretion of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He said all decisions relating to the Cabinet lineup rest with the prime minister and that ministers should remain focused on their current responsibilities to ensure continuity and stability in the administration. "Everyone is entitled to their views or aspirations, but these positions are not ours to decide. What matters is that the current government is stable and harmonious, so let us continue our work and focus on the responsibilities entrusted to us," he added. Johari also acknowledged the contributions of previous administrations, particularly under Barisan Nasional, in systematically developing the country's commodity sector. He said the ministry would continue strengthening existing policies and implementing improvements to ensure the sector's long-term, sustainable contribution to the national economy. Johari added that commodities such as palm oil, cocoa, and rubber remain relevant and strategic contributors to national growth if driven by sound policies and effective execution. "For example, palm oil alone recorded RM114 billion in export value last year, making Malaysia the world's second-largest producer. "As for cocoa, although we are not a major producer, we have capitalised on processing and value-added activities to achieve RM15 billion in exports. "The rubber industry too has thrived, thanks to decades of investment in research and development. Malaysia is now among the world's leading rubber exporters," he said.
New Straits Times
13-06-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
Johari Ghani: MSPO 2.0 signals Malaysia's commodity shift
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is stepping up efforts to position itself as a global leader in sustainable commodity certification through the implementation of MSPO 2.0, the enhanced standard under the Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) scheme. Sustainability is no longer an option in trade; it is a prerequisite, Minister of Plantation and Commodities Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani said, noting that MSPO 2.0 is a clear signal of the country's commitment to transforming the commodity sector in line with global expectations. "We are embedding sustainability at every level, from smallholder farms to export shelves, and raising the integrity of our entire ecosystem. Not only that, we aim for that MPSO model to be replicated across all commodities," he said in a statement. As part of this vision, MSPO 2.0 took centre stage at Expo 2025 Osaka, where the Ministry of Plantation and Commodities (KPK) highlighted Malaysia's dedication to making sustainability a cornerstone of its trade and economic diplomacy. The initiative signals a strategic move to align Malaysia's commodity exports with growing global demand for environmentally and socially responsible sourcing. One key focus is expanding exports of downstream and value-added palm-based products to Japan, including speciality fats, tocotrienols, red palm oil, and biomass-based medium-density fibreboard used in construction and furniture manufacturing. To support this, the Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB), the R&D and licensing agency under KPK, signed several trade agreements at Expo 2025, targeting enhanced market access for palm oil products in Japan and across Asia. Malaysia's export credibility gained a further boost with the signing of a collaboration between MSPO and AEON Japan, aimed at improving the visibility of certified palm-based products in Japanese retail. MSPO-labelled items are already appearing on shelves, supported by Japan's Global Alliance for Sustainable Supply Chain (ASSC), whose members include major brands such as AEON, Meiji, Ajinomoto, and KAO. The upgraded MS 2530:2022 standard introduces stricter requirements covering deforestation prevention, greenhouse gas emissions, labour rights, and high conservation value (HCV) area protection. These updates bring Malaysia's certification scheme into closer alignment with international ESG benchmarks. With 86 per cent of the national palm oil sector already certified, Malaysia is targeting 95 per cent certification by the end of 2025. To help reach this target, the government has earmarked RM50 million under Budget 2025 to support nationwide MSPO implementation. This includes technical support, audit funding, and traceability tools, especially for independent smallholders, to ensure inclusive participation in sustainable global supply chains. In addition to palm oil, the ministry is shining a spotlight on kenaf, an industrial crop prized for its high carbon absorption and biodegradable properties. With global demand projected to exceed US$10 billion by 2032, Malaysia is intensifying efforts to build robust sustainability and traceability frameworks for this emerging commodity. During KPK Week at Expo 2025, five strategic memoranda of understanding (MoUs) were signed across a range of commodities, from palm biomass and sustainable pepper to kenaf innovation and cacao exports. These agreements reflect Malaysia's broader multi-commodity strategy to elevate its position as a producer of sustainable, high-value products. Malaysia's overall presence at Expo 2025 is led by the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), with over 21 ministries and 70 agencies contributing to a unified national showcase. Over the 26-week event, the Malaysia Pavilion will host forums, product demonstrations, business matching sessions, and signing ceremonies, positioning the country as a forward-looking trade and investment partner. So far, Malaysia has achieved 68 per cent of its RM13 billion target in trade and investment leads for Expo 2025, a testament to its whole-of-government strategy that places certified sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity at the centre of its global economic diplomacy.
New Straits Times
12-06-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
Russia – Malaysia relations gaining new momentum, says Ambassador
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia remains a longstanding, reliable, and valued partner of Russia, with bilateral ties gaining renewed momentum, said Russian Ambassador to Malaysia Naiyl M. Latypov. Speaking at a reception marking Russia's National Day in Kuala Lumpur yesterday, Latypov said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and President Vladimir Putin had held extensive and constructive discussions during Anwar's recent visit to Russia. "This intensification of dialogue at the highest level clearly reflects the upward trajectory of our bilateral relations. Our cooperation spans a wide range of areas, including trade, investment, energy, tourism, education, and cultural and humanitarian exchange. "I hope that the motion along this trend will accelerate further, bringing more benefits to our nations," he said. Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani represented the government at the event. Also present was Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu. According to Latypov, Russia-Malaysia cooperation is grounded in mutual respect and shared benefit, with both countries consistently striving to understand one another's perspectives and to act as true partners. "Our leaders' exchanges on regional and international matters have shown that the positions of Russia and Malaysia are closely aligned. "Both of our countries are firm in upholding the principles of international law, sovereignty, and non-interference in internal affairs. We also coordinate effectively at multilateral platforms, including the United Nations," he stated. As Malaysia holds the Asean Chairmanship this year, Latypov said Russia places great importance on its dialogue with the Association. Asean's centrality is founded on inclusiveness, transparency, and equality, with full respect for the identity and interests of all its members, he added. On BRICS, Latypov said Russia is committed to supporting Malaysia's smooth and effective participation in all BRICS partner formats. On Russia's national day, he noted this year holds special significance for Russians as the country solemnly marks the 80th anniversary of the end of the Great Patriotic War and the Second World War. Russia and Malaysia's diplomatic relations were established in 1967, marking nearly six decades this year. During Anwar's four-day official visit to Russia last month, Putin stated bilateral ties are developing successfully and progressively, with both sides expressing strong interest in making the cooperation more substantive and transparent.
