Malaysia’s push into science-driven nutraceuticals took centre stage at PIPOC 2025, where red palm oil was highlighted as a promising tool for diabetes-friendly diets amid growing regional concerns over metabolic health.
Speaking at the congress, Profes Lipid Sdn Bhd founder Steven JJ Lee said red palm oil’s carotenoids and tocotrienols give it functional properties that appeal to consumers seeking better blood-sugar management.
“Red palm oil helps reduce sugar spikes,” he explained, noting its relevance in moderating the glycaemic impact of rice consumption, a key issue for Malaysians.
Lee’s work is rooted in more than a decade of experience in palm refinery engineering and food technology, a background that eventually led him to establish a dedicated red palm oil processing facility in Semenyih. The plant supports the production of Harvist Red Palm Oil, which now serves domestic consumers and export markets including the United States, Singapore, and Taiwan.
He emphasised that the sector’s scientific progress is closely tied to institutional support.
“MPOB gave us a great deal of support. Their technology strengthened our company’s image and elevated our presence, especially in markets that value scientific credibility,” he said.
Access to research infrastructure and analytical facilities has helped companies pursue stronger validation for palm-based functional ingredients.
The discussion also touched on international perceptions of palm products, which Lee said have often been shaped by misinformation. However, he noted that attitudes are shifting as more consumers in markets such as the US adopt evidence-based dietary choices.
“With new food guidelines emerging in the United States, things are shifting,” he observed.
