PALM OIL CONGRESS TO BALANCE ECOLOGICS WITH ECONOMICS

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 5 (Bernama) -- "Balancing Ecologics with Economics" will
be the theme of the International Palm Oil Congress (PIPOC) 2009 to be held here
next week.

Based on the theme, the biennial event will emphasise on the environment for
the palm oil industry in tandem with the growing global concerns about
environmental conservation and sustainable production in the agricultural
sector.

To be organised by the Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB), PIPOC 2009 aims to
discuss strategic research and development findings in the oil palm and palm oil
industry, besides capitalising on recent technology findings that will bring
about changes in the industry.

It also hopes to draw up strategies towards enhanced sustainability,
competitiveness, automation, policies on chemical trade, market trends and trade
challenges, MPOB said in a statement Thursday.

The four-day congress, to be held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre from
Nov 9 to 12 will be officiated by Plantation Industries and Commodities
Minister Bernard Dompok.

Dr Lim Keng Yaik, who was the Primary Industries Minister from 1986 to 2004,
will present a keynote address on "Palm Oil and Energy: Managing Crisis".

Plenary lectures will be presented by prominent personalities in the field
during the congress, the organiser said.

A trade exhibition will also be held throughout the congress to showcase
current technologies, state-of-the-art equipment and products related to the
oils and fats industry, as well as to provide networking opportunities for
buyers and sellers.
-- BERNAMA