PRIME Minister James Marape has welcomed Malaysian interest to expand investment in Papua New Guinea’s oil palm, livestock and downstream processing sectors.
Marape said it was a major opportunity to create jobs, strengthen food security, increase participation in the economy and unlock the country’s vast agricultural potential.
He made the remarks during a meeting with Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB) chairman Datuk Mohamad Helmy Othman Basha, who also serves as adviser to SD Guthrie, New Britain Palm Oil chief operating officer Nik Maziah Nik Mustapha, and chief financial officer Mohamad Mahazir Mustaffa.
The meeting was attended by International Trade and Investment Minister Richard Maru and Minister for Oil Palm Francis Maneke.
The discussions focused on opportunities to expand oil palm and cattle production in Papua New Guinea, develop downstream processing industries, strengthen cooperation between PNG and Malaysia’s palm oil sectors, and unlock the agricultural potential of the Ramu and Sepik plains through sustainable investment.
“Malaysia has been one of Papua New Guinea’s most important economic partners since Independence, and we welcome investors who have demonstrated a long-term commitment to our country and our people,” Marape said.
“We have the land, we have the people, and we have access to some of the world’s fastest-growing markets.
“Our task is to convert these advantages into productive economic activity that creates jobs, generates income and improves the lives of our people.”
Marape noted that New Britain Palm Oil, one of Papua New Guinea’s largest private-sector employers, employed more than 22,000 Papua New Guineans.
It also supported thousands more through agriculture, transport, contracting and other business activities.
“This is the type of investment that creates real opportunities for our people and stimulates growth throughout the wider economy,” he said.
Marape also acknowledged New Britain Palm Oil’s leading role in Papua New Guinea’s palm oil industry, noting that the company remains the country’s largest palm oil producer and one of its most significant agricultural exporters.
