Companies should tap into seaweed potential
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian companies should tap into the seaweed-based food industry as it has a global commercial potential, said an entrepreneur.
Anuar Ma Yusof, managing director of Comfort Rich Sdn Bhd, a Shah Alam-based seaweed-based food producer, said in Malaysia, the seas off Semporna, Sabah were known for growing high-grade seaweed.
He said ironically, not many companies in the country were involved in the industry as sellers, suppliers, processors or promoters.
He said with this advantage, Malaysia should be one of the major producers of seaweed-based food products and compete with neighbouring countries such as the Philippines, a major producer of seaweed for the global market.
The Philippines, as well as Indonesia, have many big seaweed traders. However, in Malaysia, many people still do not realise the business potential of seaweed. Anuar Ma Yusof, Comfort Rich managing director
“The Philippines, as well as Indonesia, have many big seaweed traders. However, in Malaysia, many people still do not realise the business potential of seaweed.
“It is a highly sought-after ingredient in the production of yogurt, juice, cake and chocolate, as well healthcare and beauty products such as soap, moisturiser, facial cleanser and shampoo. Malaysia’s seaweed is in high demand, especially from India and Singapore,” he told Bernama.
In another development, Anuar said Comfort Rich was in the process of producing halal seaweedbased animal feed in the form of bran for poultry, livestock, fish, cats and dogs.
“We are confident there will be high demand for halal seaweedbased animal feed as it is of better quality and proven through lab research. It is also cheaper as it uses local resources,” he said, adding that the new product could help increase Comfort Rich’s sales to RM10 million this year. — Bernama