Call to export more coconuts
PETALING JAYA: Malays ia should export more coconuts and related products to contribute to the country’s growth domestic product (GDP), said Agriculture and Agro-based Industry Minister Datuk Salahuddin Ayub.
He said Malaysia remained one of the top 10 coconut-producing countries in the world, adding that the coconut was the fourth most important industrial crop in Malaysia after oil palm, rubber and rice.
“In terms of economic value, together with other food crops such as durian and pineapple, it has contributed three per cent to the country’s GDP for five years consecutively.
“Malaysia has its fair share of experience in the trade of coconut-based product exports which increased by 70.7 per cent from 18,481 tonnes in 2012 to 63,074 tonnes in 2016.
“Despite its positive growth, more needs to be done. This includes efforts to increase productivity and adapting to the dynamic market requirement,” he said at the opening ceremony of the 54th Asian and Pacific Coconut Community Session and Ministerial Meeting.
At the five-day programme, 18 countries, including Malaysia, will discuss and exchange ideas on ways to increase the coconut production, promote cooperation, technology and tackle problems and challenges in the coconut industry.
Salahuddin said in realising the emerging importance of the coconut industry for the country, the ministry had introduce an initiative known as Source of Earnings and Sustenance.
He said the initiative could generate income, wealth and bring prosperity to farmers and manufacturers.
“A big budget has been allocated this year for the development of the industry, the largest sum allocated for the crop sector.
“We hope to share technology ideas and promote coconut products at the international level,” he added.