KUCHING: The Malaysian Pineapple Industry Board (LPNM) and i-CATS University College have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to forge a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing the pineapple industry in Sarawak.
LPNM chairman Sheikh Umar Bagharib Ali said that the collaboration would focus on research, information exchange, and technical skill development related to the state’s pineapple sector.
“This initiative is part of our broader efforts to strengthen the pineapple industry nationwide, with Sarawak currently ranking second in plantation area, covering nearly 3,000 hectares,” he said.
He told media this after the MoU signing, which took place during a courtesy visit to Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at Wisma Bapa Malaysia today (May 30).
Sheikh Umar added that discussions with Abang Johari highlighted the potential for further development of the pineapple industry in Sarawak.
“The Premier has committed to expanding pineapple cultivation in Sarawak to 20,000 hectares by 2030, and we are excited and grateful for this initiative.
“We are ready to provide all necessary support and efforts, particularly at the agency level, to help achieve this goal,” he said.
The MoU signing was witnessed by Abang Zohari, who also serves as the Chancellor of i-CATS University College.
The agreement was signed by Sheikh Umar and LPNM director-general, Mohd Khairuzamri M Salleh, along with i-CATS vice-chancellor Professor Dr Shahren Tun Ahmad Zaidi Adruce, and pro vice-chancellor (Academic and Internationalisation) Associate Professor Leo Sing Lim.
Also present were Deputy Minister of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Ismail and LPNM Sarawak director Mohammad Suffian Sahmat.
