Sabah to host first global cocoa fair
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah will host the first Malaysia International Cocoa Fair (MICF), showcasing the richness of the state's cocoa to the world.
'Sabah has long been a vital hub for cocoa production, so bringing the MICF here is both symbolic and strategic,' said Deputy Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Chan Foong Hin.
The event, which will take place in the state capital from May 24 to 27, underscores the government's commitment to support Sabah's growing prominence in Malaysia's cocoa industry, he said in a statement.
Organised by the Malaysian Cocoa Board, Chan said MICF serves as an international platform for promoting Malaysia's cocoa sector and fostering collaboration between local and international industry players.
He spoke of his recent visit to the Cocoa Kingdom KK Chocolate House in Kota Kinabalu, noting that the company will be one of the exhibitors at MICF.
'Their chocolates are regularly supplied to luxury hotels such as Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, using cocoa sourced from their own plantation in Tawau,' he said.
Beyond serving as a strategic business platform, he noted that MICF offers an opportunity for the public to explore Sabah's cocoa industry and appreciate the craftsmanship behind chocolate-making.
According to the Malaysian Cocoa Board, lucky draw prizes at the event include a Perodua Axia, two units of all-terrain vehicles, motorcycles, electronic gadgets, household appliances, smartphones, hotel stay vouchers and chocolate products.
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