More farmers should venture into cocoa cultivation - CM
Deputy Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Chan Foong Hin (right) presents Dr Jeffrey with a token of appreciation.
KOTA KINABALU (May 27): Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor wants to see more farmers venturing into cocoa planting and expanding the 3,000 hectares of land already in cultivation in Sabah.
He said there has been a surge in international demand for Malaysia's cocoa products, with export values hitting a record RM15.06 billion last year, three times that of 2023.
'We are proud that Sabah has played a pivotal role in this success, accounting for over 60 per cent of the nation's cocoa output.
'I am heartened that about 3,000 cocoa farmers in the districts of Ranau, Tenom, Kota Marudu, Keningau and Kuamut have benefited,' he said at the Cocoa Gala Dinner held in conjunction with the Malaysian International Cocoa Fair 2025 (MICF 2025) at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) here on Tuesday night.
His speech was delivered by Deputy Chief Minister I/ Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Jeffrey Kitingan.
Hajiji said this was a momentous occasion for Sabah and reflected the state's significant role in Malaysia's cocoa industry.
He commended the Malaysian Cocoa Board for the exemplary efforts in driving this success.
The Chief Minister hoped the Malaysian International Cocoa Fair (MICF) and gala dinner would bring about long-lasting benefits, from new partnerships and investments to increased global awareness of Sabah's strength, not only as the main cocoa-producing state in Malaysia, but as a destination for business, tourism and culture.
'We also express our heartfelt thanks to the international exhibitors and cocoa producers, to our local entrepreneurs and SMEs, to our academic institutions, and of course, to the many sponsors and partners, both from Malaysia and abroad, who have made MICF 2025 a success,' he said.
Deputy Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Chan Foong Hin who was also at the dinner attended by about 1,400 attendees, extended warm greetings on behalf of the Ministry and expressed heartfelt appreciation for the festival's overwhelming success.
'It is a great honour for me to represent the Ministry of Plantation and Commodities Malaysia at tonight's event,' he said in his opening remarks.
Chan lauded the strong collaboration between federal and state entities, highlighting Sabah's vital role in Malaysia's cocoa industry.
'Sabah has always been an essential part of Malaysia's cocoa industry, and we are proud to hold this festival here,' he said, extending his gratitude to the Sabah State Government for their unwavering support.
The Member of Parliament for Kota Kinabalu welcomed both local and international guests of the event saying, 'I am delighted that MICF 2025 is being held here in Kota Kinabalu, as it provides a valuable boost to our local economy.'
He underscored his personal involvement in the event's journey, from the pre-launch in January to officiating the Choco Rush flag-off on Sunday morning (May 25).
'The Choco Rush was a meaningful initiative that highlighted the nutritional and energising value of cocoa and chocolate as food and beverages,' he noted, adding that the event drew more than 1,000 running enthusiasts.
Reflecting on the festival's official opening earlier in the day, officiated by Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani, Chan expressed admiration for the crowd and the vibrant exhibitions.
'I was truly impressed by the enthusiastic crowd and the vibrant exhibitions showcased by various cocoa companies. I am especially proud of the strong presence of Malaysian and Sabah-based chocolate brands such as Beryl's, Benns Ethicoa, Benns Chocolate, Cocoa Kingdom, and many more,' he said.
Chan acknowledged the international delegates, exhibitors and local entrepreneurs whose participation added prestige and dynamism to the festival.
'This evening is a special occasion for the cocoa fraternity, a celebration of our shared achievements. It is a moment to pause, reflect and express heartfelt appreciation to everyone who has attended and contributed to MICF 2025,' he stressed.
He paid tribute to those who worked behind the scenes, as well as the festival's key supporters and sponsors.
'My deepest gratitude goes to those who supported the organisation of MICF 2025, whether through funding, product sponsorships, manpower, influence, or invaluable guidance,' he said.
He made special mention of the Sabah State Government, the International Cocoa Organization (ICCO), and 27 strategic partners, including Diamond Strategic Partner Guan Chong Cocoa Manufacturer Sdn Bhd and Platinum Strategic Partners Nestlé Products Malaysia Sdn Bhd and Overseas Supply Trading (M) Sdn Bhd.
He also acknowledged the contributions of the Malaysian Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB), Sabah Tourism Board, Malaysia Airports Berhad, Royal Malaysian Customs Department, and others.
'Let us remember that sweetness is not only found in chocolate, it is also in the relationships we build, the respect we show, and the visions we share. May this evening serve not only as a meet-and-greet, but also as a meaningful platform for networking, one that continues even after we return to our respective homes and communities,' he said.
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