Malaysian Cabinet Agrees to Prohibit ‘Palm Oil Free’ Labeling

The Cabinet has agreed to a law prohibiting the use of negative phrases or indicators about palm oil on products  marketed, said Minister of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs (KPDNHEP), Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.  The move was to ensure that no products with labels like ‘palm oil free’, ‘does not contain palm oil’, or negative phrases or indicators about palm oil are sold.  It will be implemented as soon as possible after the engagement sessions are held with interested parties to get their views.  

“This proposal was tabled to the Cabinet and it was passed on Oct 18, in line with the government’s objective of supporting the oil palm industry through the Sayangi Sawitku Campaign,” he said.  He said checks conducted by the ministry of 2,609 premises throughout the country found 12 products with negative labeling, phrases and indicators about palm oil.  The ministry has advised these outlets to not display these products for sale.