Introduction

The Malaysia International Conference on Oils and Fats 2014 (SMILE 2014) is organised in order to provide a national and international platform for researchers, industries, academicians and postgraduate students to promote, strengthen and expand the networking amongst those involved in the research of oils and fats.

Being one of the biggest producers and exporters of palm oil and palm oil products, Malaysia has an important role to play in fulfilling the growing global needs for oils and fats sustainably. As the only leading university in Malaysia that offers oleochemicals degree, UKM has been actively involved in oleochemicals research for both undergraduates and post graduates for nearly 20 years.

The 1st, 2nd and 3rd SMILE were held in 2006, 2008 and 2012, respectively, at the national level. Due to the overwhelming responses from the participants, this year, SMILE2014 has been upgraded to international level. It is expected that SMILE2014 will be a medium for knowledge exchange to improve the oleochemical industries based on oils and fats, especially Malaysian palm oil.