KUCHING: The Sarawak Ministry of Modernisation of Agriculture, Native Land and Regional Development (MANRED) aims to plant 16,000 hectares (ha) of pineapple by 2030, with 80 per cent of the yield for export.
Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said MANRED will work together with the Malaysian Pineapple Industry Board (MPIB) to meet the target.
“Among the crops identified (for cultivation) is pineapple, especially the MD2 variety which is seen as one of the crops that can boost the agriculture sector in Sarawak,” he said during the launch of the Nanas Berambeh@Plaza Merdeka programme here today.
His speech was read by MANRED Assistant Minister Datuk Roland Sagah Wee Inn.
The inaugural Nanas Berambeh programme, based on a “know your customers day” concept, was organised by MPIB and serves as a platform for the board to meet with the members of the public, in particular those who are involved directly or indirectly with the pineapple industry.
The programme will also allow industry players and target groups to meet with MPIB to find solutions to questions and issues related to the board’s services.
Additionally, the programme also gives space for pineapple planters and agro-products producers to market their products directly to customers.
Meanwhile, Uggah said the state government appreciates the efforts by MPIB Sarawak to boost the development of the state’s pineapple industry.
“The close cooperation in developing the state’s pineapple industry that has seen various agencies working together, including MANRED and MPIB, must be strengthened and continued,” he added. – Bernama
