The Malaysian government is urged to establish a minimum selling price for fruits to secure income for farmers, according to Karamunting Assemblyman Datuk George Hiew Vun Zin. Instances in the Sabah market have seen significant price drops for fruits like durian, papaya, and avocado, resulting in financial losses for farmers. The lack of governmental price control and marketing support has led some landowners to switch to palm oil cultivation, despite its lower price of 50 cents per kg, due to its ease of maintenance and sale. Hiew highlighted the disparity in profitability.
Hiew also pointed out that Sabah's land, particularly in regions like Keningau, Tenom, Lahad Datu, Kunak, Sandakan, Kota Marudu, and Kota Belud, is apt for fruit cultivation. He suggested Sabah emulate Thailand's success in becoming a leading fruit exporter due to similar land conditions. Moreover, he recommended the establishment of a fruit collection center in Sabah, akin to the existing system for palm oil, to facilitate the collection and marketing of local farmers' produce.
Source: dailyexpress.com.my