Strengthening Smallholder Capacity: Training on Independent Smallholder (ISH) Group Certification Process and Internal Control System (ICS)

By: Syamimi Binti Shahri

Smallholders are at the heart of sustainable palm oil production, but achieving certification can be a challenge without the right tools and knowledge. On 3 – 4 December 2024, the Forever Sabah (FS) Team, with significant collaboration and financial support from the RSPO Smallholder Trainer Academy (STA), brought together 41 smallholders and trainers from various districts in Sabah, along with two participants from Johor Plantation Group, for a transformative two-day training programme. The focus was to build capacity in navigating RSPO’s group certification process and effectively implement sustainable practices.

The ISH Group Certification Process and Internal Control System (ICS) Training, held at the Pavilion Hotel in Sandakan, Sabah, was designed as a practical and interactive learning experience. It aimed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of:

1. The RSPO group certification process under the 2019 RSPO ISH Standard
2. Forming and managing group entities
3. Implementing effective Internal Control Systems (ICS)
4. Meeting RSPO Certification requirements under the 2019 RSPO ISH Standard

A Transformative Experience for Smallholders

The training blended theory with practical applications through hands-on group discussions, scenario-based exercises, and real-world examples. Trainers from RSPO, Forever Sabah, the Center for Sustainable Small-Owners (CSS) from the Asia School of Business (ASB) worked collaboratively to deliver the sessions, ensuring participants gained practical insights and actionable strategies.

Barbara Edward, a smallholder trainer from Telupid, shared that she found the session on Internal Control Systems (ICS) particularly impactful. “The ICS provides a strong foundation for managing policies and operations, helping ensure compliance, improving efficiency, and making informed decisions, which are essential for successful entrepreneurship,” she said. Barbara also enjoyed the practical sessions, adding, “I learned a lot from the experiences shared by other groups.”

Collaboration Driving Positive Change

This training highlights the importance of collaboration between RSPO STA and Forever Sabah in supporting smallholders. By bridging knowledge gaps, smallholders are now better equipped to pursue certification, access improved market opportunities, and contribute to the sustainable production of palm oil.

The event concluded with a certificate handover, marking not just the end of the training but a significant milestone in empowering smallholders to achieve long-term sustainability and resilience in the palm oil industry.

As part of RSPO’s Roadmap to Empowering Smallholders, RSPO STA remains committed to supporting smallholders worldwide by building their capacity, fostering sustainable practices, and equipping them to achieve certification and improved livelihoods.