The International Palm Oil Millers Conference 2026 (IPOMC26), themed “Reinventing Milling Excellence: Technology, Sustainability & Human Capital for a New Era,” was successfully held on 23–25 April 2026 at the Royale Chulan Kuala Lumpur.
Organised by The Incorporated Society of Planters (ISP) and managed by ISP Management (M) Sdn Bhd (ISPM), IPOMC26 highlighted the importance of advancing efficiency, sustainability, and innovation in the palm oil milling industry, while addressing evolving challenges such as regulatory requirements, cost pressures, and rapid technological transformation. The Conference was led by Tuan Haji Mohamad Fadzil Hitam, Chairman of ISPM, whose vision and leadership were instrumental in conceptualising and driving the success of the event.
This Conference brought together over 400 participants comprising millers, engineers, technologists, researchers, regulators, and industry leaders, providing a dynamic platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration. The event also recorded a strong international presence, including a significant turnout of participants from PT SMART Tbk, Indonesia. In addition, the Conference featured 33 exhibition booths and 8 sponsors, including leading organisations such as SD Guthrie Berhad, Boustead Plantations Berhad, CB Palm Industrial Sdn Bhd, and Wilmar Plantations Sdn Bhd, showcasing the latest technologies, solutions, and innovations supporting the industry.
The welcoming address was delivered by YBhg Datuk Haji Daud Amatzin, Chairman of ISP, and the Conference was officiated by YB Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad, Minister of Plantation and Commodities, Malaysia, and featured a keynote address by Mr. M R Chandran. A total of 18 technical papers were presented across four key modules covering Efficiency, Operational Excellence & Food Safety; Compliance, ESG & Regulatory; Competitiveness/Business & Talent; and Technology & Innovation, addressing current industry challenges, market dynamics, and technological advancements in palm oil milling. The Conference concluded with a closing address by Dr. Ramesh Veloo, Chief Executive Officer of ISPM, who expressed appreciation to all contributors.
In addition, 40 participants joined the Post-Conference Tour to Minsawi Industries (Kuala Kangsar) Sdn Bhd, an AI-based Smart Palm Oil Mill, hosted by Mr. Surendran Kuranadan, the owner of AIREI Sdn Bhd. The visit provided valuable practical insights into the application of artificial intelligence (AI) and smart technologies in modern palm oil milling operations, demonstrating how digital innovation is transforming efficiency, decision-making, and sustainability in the industry.
We extend our sincere appreciation to all participants, sponsors, partners, exhibitors, chairpersons, chief panelists, speakers, panelists, and the secretariat for their valuable contributions towards the success of IPOMC26.
PRESS/MEDIA COVERAGE
1. Ministry of Plantation and Commodities
2. Utusan Melayu
3. New Straits Times
4. Sabah Media
