Ms. Monique Gieskes, Chief Executive Officer of Plantations et Huileries du Congo (PHC), DR Congo, paid a courtesy visit to ISP Headquarters on 18 December 2025, where she met with Dr. Ramesh Veloo, Chief Executive of ISP and Tuan Haji Mazalan Haji Kamis, Chairman of the ISP Central Johore Branch. The meeting focused on exploring potential areas of collaboration between ISP/ISPM and PHC, particularly in the areas of training, advisory services, talent development, and knowledge exchange.
During the discussion, several “quick-win” collaboration opportunities were identified. These included the provision of training programmes for PHC employees at various levels, to be conducted both online and on-site, aimed at strengthening technical and managerial competencies. Another key area discussed was talent-hunting services for Malaysian expatriates, to be facilitated by ISP in support of PHC’s operational needs.
The meeting also explored opportunities for advisory support for a region covering approximately 80,000 hectares of planted and development concessions, focusing on operational improvement and strategic guidance. In addition, PHC expressed interest in contributing articles to The Planter, with their CEO sharing insights from the company’s DR Congo turnaround project, providing valuable perspectives for the wider plantation community.
Further discussions included potential assistance and advisory support for a Congo-based conference planned for 2027, reflecting a longer-term collaboration outlook between the organisations. It was also agreed that thirty (30) PHC staff will be registered as ISP members, marking a significant step in strengthening professional engagement and collaboration between ISP and PHC.
The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both parties expressing strong commitment to advancing these initiatives and building a sustainable partnership moving forward. ISP looks forward to continued engagement with PHC in supporting capability development, knowledge sharing, and industry advancement.
