The Council of Palm Oil Producing Countries (CPOPC) has announced the appointment of Izzana Salleh as its next Secretary General, with Dr Musdhalifah Machmud named Deputy Secretary General. Their three-year terms will commence in June 2025 and run until May 2028.
The leadership transition was unveiled during a press conference at the CPOPC Secretariat in Jakarta, signalling a new chapter as the organisation accelerates its global advocacy for sustainability, equity, and collaboration within the palm oil sector.
Speaking virtually from Kuala Lumpur, Izzana expressed her commitment to strengthening regional cooperation, aligning sustainability standards, and elevating the role of smallholders in global value chains. “I’m honoured to lead CPOPC at a time when the voices of producing countries must be stronger than ever,” she said. “We will ensure palm oil, as responsibly and sustainably produced by our member countries, is recognised globally as a force for good, while supporting livelihoods, food and energy security, and climate action.”
Izzana brings a wealth of experience in policy and international engagement. A graduate of Harvard University, she is a trustee of the Malaysian Palm Oil Council, founder of RISE Human Capital, and co-founder of the global mentorship network Girls for Girls.
Her appointment follows the tenure of Dr Rizal Affandi Lukman, who, alongside Deputy Secretary General Datuk Nageeb Wahab, played a critical role in expanding CPOPC’s international presence. Their leadership was instrumental in navigating complex negotiations with the European Union, redefining strategic priorities, and promoting sustainable practices while defending the rights of smallholders.
“This is not the end, but a continuation,” Dr Rizal said. “I’m confident that with the leadership of Izzana and Musdhalifah, CPOPC will move forward with renewed energy to meet the challenges and opportunities ahead.”
Established in 2015 by Indonesia and Malaysia, CPOPC has grown to include Honduras and Papua New Guinea as full members. Observer countries include Colombia, Ghana, Nigeria, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Collectively, these nations account for nearly 89 per cent of global palm oil production, positioning the council as a key player in shaping international policy and sustainability frameworks.
-Bernama
