The 11th International Planters Conference 2026 (IPC 2026), themed “Future-Proofing Plantation Agriculture: Innovation, Resilience, and Sustainability,” was successfully held on 13–15 July 2026 at the Royale Chulan Kuala Lumpur. Organised by The Incorporated Society of Planters (ISP) and managed by ISP Management (M) Sdn Bhd (ISPM), the Conference brought together plantation professionals, industry leaders, researchers, policymakers, and technology providers to exchange knowledge and explore innovative solutions for the future of plantation agriculture.
IPC 2026 highlighted the importance of building a resilient and sustainable plantation industry amid evolving global challenges, including climate variability, labour shortages, market uncertainties, and increasing sustainability expectations. Under the theme “Future-Proofing Plantation Agriculture: Innovation, Resilience, and Sustainability,” the Conference focused on practical strategies, technological advancements, and collaborative approaches to strengthen productivity, competitiveness, and environmental stewardship across the plantation sector.
The Conference featured an extensive technical programme comprising keynote presentations, technical papers, panel discussions, and case studies organised under three key modules: Operational Excellence and Management; Mechanisation, Automation and Digitalisation / Talent, Leadership and Workforce of the Future; and Regenerative Agriculture and Sustainability. Participants gained valuable insights into emerging technologies, sustainable plantation practices, leadership development, artificial intelligence, carbon management, and the future direction of the global plantation industry.
The welcoming address was delivered by YBhg Datuk Haji Daud Amatzin, Chairman of ISP, while the Conference was officially opened by YB Datuk Seri Dr. Noraini Ahmad, Minister of Plantation and Commodities Malaysia. The keynote address, delivered by Mr. Jeffry Faizal Kamaruddin of SD Guthrie Berhad, set the tone for the Conference by highlighting the importance of innovation, resilience, and sustainability in future-proofing plantation agriculture. The event also featured a high-level panel discussion, “Palm Oil Industry: Meeting Demands of a Changing World,” moderated by Dr. Ramesh Veloo, FISP, bringing together distinguished industry leaders to discuss plantation innovation, market resilience, carbon-negative initiatives, and talent management.
In addition to the Conference sessions, participants took part in the Conference Dinner, Post Conference Talk, and Post Conference Tours to Carey Island (SD Guthrie), the Advanced Agriculture Research Centre (AAR), and Minsawi Industries (Kuala Kangsar) Sdn Bhd. These visits provided valuable opportunities for participants to observe best practices, innovative technologies, and research developments that are shaping the future of plantation operations.
The Conference also featured a vibrant exhibition comprising 62 exhibition booths, showcasing the latest innovations in agrochemicals, fertilisers, planting materials, mechanisation, digital technologies, equipment, and plantation support services. The exhibition provided an excellent platform for networking, business collaboration, and knowledge sharing among industry stakeholders from across the plantation value chain.
Chairman of IPC 2026 MOTF, YBrs. Tuan Haji Mohamad Fadzil Hitam, FISP, extends his sincere appreciation to all participants, sponsors, exhibitors, speakers, chairpersons, panelists, supporting organisations, and members of the organising committee for their invaluable contributions towards the success of the 11th International Planters Conference 2026. Their support and commitment played a vital role in making IPC 2026 a meaningful platform for advancing innovation, collaboration, and sustainable growth within the plantation industry.
PRESS/MEDIA COVERAGE
1. MPOB
2. The Sun
3. Sinar Daily
4. Malaysia Tribune
5. Bernama Biz
6. Jendela DBP/Dewan Ekonomi
7. Oil Palm World
