Palm oil, originally popular in West and Central Africa as a cooking oil, became a key industrial lubricant during Britain's Industrial Revolution, leading to its high demand. However, rapid global expansion of palm oil production caused environmental degradation, prompting the formation of the Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) initiative.

MSPO Certification Scheme: This national certification ensures oil palm plantations, smallholdings, and processing facilities meet MSPO standards. It includes:

• Certification standards development,
• Accreditation, audit applications, and supply chain traceability,
• Auditing guidelines and peer review of reports,
• Issuance of logo licenses and complaint handling.

The MSPO is structured into four parts: general principles for independent smallholders, plantations, and mills. It ensures sustainability and accountability throughout the palm oil supply chain.

The MSPO certification has cycle of 5 years. The first year which is the Initial assessment involves gaining insights into the estate's existing practices and review documented policies procedures.

After Successfully passing the initial audit and receiving the MSPO Certificate, The Surveillance audit takes place from the second year towards the fifth year to ensure continuos compliance.

The ending of the 5 Years cycle will lead to a new cycle, which Recertification takes place for the first year in the new cycle. Renewing and continuing the compliance.