Malaysia Increases Palm Biodiesel Share for Transport on the Path to Climate Goals

Malaysia has announced an expansion of the use of palm oil-based biodiesel in ground vehicles at the country’s main international airport. This decision is part of the state’s strategy to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

This is reported by AgroReview

Transition from B10 to B20 for Airport Transport

According to Minister of Plantations and Commodities Johari Abdul Ghani, Malaysia is transitioning from the B10 biodiesel blend, which contains 10% palm oil-based biodiesel, to B20 for ground vehicles at airports. Currently, the country has implemented a mandatory B10 standard, and some regions are already utilizing the higher B20 blend.

“If this pilot project proves successful, we will expand it to other sectors,” said Johari, noting that this is part of Malaysia’s long-term commitment to achieving its net-zero emissions target, although he did not specify the timeline for the project’s rollout.

Sustainable Development and Support for Local Farmers

Chairman of the Malaysian Palm Oil Council Mohamad Helmi Othman Basha reported that similar biodiesel trials are taking place at key ports, including North Port Klang, Tanjung Pelepas, Johor Port, and Kuching Port. He emphasized that the use of palm biodiesel not only reduces dependence on traditional fuels but also contributes to the development of local communities and small farmers working in the palm oil sector.

Mohamad Helmi stressed that sustainable development and economic growth can occur simultaneously, benefiting both society and the environment.

In comparison, Indonesia, the world’s largest producer of palm oil, has already implemented a B40 mandate and is considering a transition to B50. Increasing the share of biodiesel in palm oil will allow Indonesia to boost domestic consumption of this product to a record 14.5 million tons in the 2024/25 season, which in turn will reduce the volume of palm oil available for export.