@ AGROBiz | March-April. 2026

• Large-scale biodiesel plants like SD Guthrie’ s are critical to

supply continuity and Malaysia’ s renewable energy initiatives.

• The facility supports national policies to boost value-added

palm oil and develop green energy.

• The timber sector continues to rank among the country’ s top commodity export contributors.

FUTURE COLLABORATION: The ministry is encouraging stronger partnerships to drive innovation and green technology investments.

The Plantation and Commodities Ministry highlighted that SD Guthrie Bhd’ s( SD Guthrie) biodiesel plant in Pulau Carey remains a key asset for sustaining supply levels and supporting the country’ s mandated use of biodiesel blends.

Its role also complements national frameworks such as the National Biofuel Policy and the National Agricommodity Policy( DAKN) 2021 – 2030, which seek to drive greater value creation within the palm oil industry.

During a recent working visit to the facility, Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad was given an overview of the plant’ s operational capacity and processing technologies.

The site is considered a contributor to Malaysia’ s expanding palm-based renewable energy sector.

“ This plant plays an important role in processing crude pa lm oil into a cleaner alternative fuel, in line with global commitments toward Environmental, Social and Governance( ESG)-based practices,” said Noraini in a statement.

“ Continuous initiatives by industry play- ers such as SD Guthrie in enhancing biodiesel production facilities are a progressive step that should be commended.”

Noraini also noted that sustained cooperation between industry participants and government policies will be crucial in advancing the nation’ s climate ambitions, particularly its target of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

“ The ministry hopes that this visit will open up more opportunities for strategic collaboration in the future. We also call on more industry players to continue investing in innovation and green technology for the sustainability of the economy and the environment for future generations,” she said.

MALAYSIA is targeting stronger growth in its timber sector, with the Plantation and Commodities Ministry aiming to achieve RM32.8 billion in timber exports by 2030.

The projection, outlined under the National Agri-Commodity Policy 2030( DAKN 2030) and the New Industrial Master Plan( NIMP) 2030, reflects ongoing efforts to expand the country’ s wood-based industry.

Currently, Malaysia exports timber and related products worth more than RM20 billion annually, with wooden furniture making up a significant 43 per cent of total exports.

The matter was highlighted at the Malaysian International Furniture Fair( MIFF) 2026, held from Mar 4th to 7th in Kuala Lumpur. Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad, in a speech delivered by deputy secretary-general Datuk Razali Mohamad, outlined ongoing measures to strengthen the industry.

“ To achieve the target, the ministry is working closely with our agencies, including the Malaysian Timber Industry Board( MTIB), the Malaysian Timber Council( MTC), and the Malaysian Timber Certification Council

FURNITURE DEMAND: Malaysian-made furniture continues to see strong demand in global markets, including the US and Southeast Asia.

( MTCC).

“ Together, we are resolute in our support of the industry in accessing new markets, adopting sustainable practices and elevating the quality of Malaysian furniture,” she said.

She noted that Malaysia’ s furniture exports have continued to expand, reflecting the industry’ s resilience amid a more competitive global landscape. Demand for locally manufactured furniture remained strong in major markets such as the United States, the Middle East, Australia and across Southeast Asia.

“ This is a clear testament to the quality, craftsmanship, and reliability that define our local manufacturers,” Noraini added.

The timber sector has maintained its position as the third-largest contributor to Malaysia’ s commodity exports, underlining its importance to the national economy.

MIFF 2026 featured more than 700 exhibitors across 100,000 square metres of exhibition space and attracted about 20,000 buyers from 140 countries and regions. The event also aimed to secure US $ 1.31 billion in on-site orders, supported by favourable currency movements.- @ AGROBiz