Malaysia’s palm oil sector is struggling with a severe labour shortage as workers increasingly avoid plantation jobs, opting for urban employment. The industry, once reliant on foreign labour, is now facing productivity declines due to ageing trees and crop diseases.
💰 Estimated revenue loss: RM11 billion ($2.6 billion) annually
🚜 Impact: Reduced output in the world’s second-largest palm oil producer
🔍 Key challenge: Finding sustainable solutions to attract workers
The future of Malaysia’s palm oil industry depends on addressing these labour shortages and improving productivity. Will automation and better incentives be the answer?
