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Borneo Post
27-05-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
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.
Daily Express
24-04-2025
- Business
- Daily Express
Malaysia's record cocoa export due to Sabah: 3,000 farmers, 3,000 hectares and RM15.06 billion export values
Published on: Thursday, April 24, 2025 Published on: Thu, Apr 24, 2025 By: Iskandar Dzulkifli Text Size: Matbali (third, left) presenting a certificate of appreciation to Daily Express reporter Jonathan Nicholas while Ramle looks on. Kota Kinabalu: Malaysia's cocoa industry has seen a surge in international demand, with export values hitting a record RM15.06 billion last year, three times that of the previous year. This growth is largely attributed to the quality of Malaysian cocoa products and strong international demand, with key markets including Singapore, the United States, Japan and other Asian countries, says the Malaysian Cocoa Board (LKM). Its Director-General Datuk Ramle Kasin said last year's export figure was RM6.86 billion or 83.66pc more than the RM8.2 billion recorded in 2023. 'This spike in exports is also supported by a significant rise in cocoa prices, which have more than tripled from RM8,000 per tonne in 2023 to between RM20,000 and RM35,000 per tonne this year,' he told reporters at an LKM event here. He added that the demand was driven by a combination of factors, including high-quality cocoa production, modern processing technologies, effective marketing strategies and a skilled workforce. He said Sabah, in particular, played a pivotal role in this success, accounting for over 60pc of the nation's cocoa output. The State boasts around 3,000 cocoa farmers across 3,000 hectares, particularly in regions such as Ranau, Tenom, Kota Marudu, Keningau and Kuamut. Despite fluctuating market prices, the cocoa industry in Malaysia remains profitable, with prices holding steady at around RM20 per kg. However, he said, the industry faces challenges from unpredictable weather, which could potentially disrupt crop yields. To mitigate these risks, LKM is implementing a variety of research and development (R&D) initiatives, including the use of suitable fertilisers and Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled fertigation (applying fertilisers through irrigation) technology to reduce reliance on manual labour and improve crop yields. Looking ahead, he said the upcoming Malaysia International Cocoa Festival (MICF) in Sabah is set to further elevate the state's profile as a key player in the global cocoa industry. The event, scheduled for May, will attract participants from across Europe, Japan and Asia, providing a platform to promote Malaysian cocoa and foster collaborations with international industry players. The festival is expected to showcase the latest innovations, products, technologies and market opportunities within the cocoa sector. LKM Chairman Datuk Matbali Musah expressed gratitude to the Sabah Government and the federal Plantation and Commodities Ministry for their support in funding the event. 'The MICF will be an important milestone in positioning Sabah as a global hub for the cocoa industry,' he said. He said as the country's cocoa exports continue to thrive, Malaysia's ability to maintain a competitive edge in the global market rests on its commitment to quality, innovation and sustainable growth in the sector. * Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss. * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
New Straits Times
22-04-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
Cocoa export doubles to RM15.06bil in 2024
KOTA KINABALU: The cocoa industry recorded an export value of RM15.06 billion last year, said Malaysian Cocoa Board (MCB) director-general Datuk Dr Ramle Kasin. In 2023, the export value for the commodity was reported at RM8.21 billion. Sabah played a key role, contributing 60 per cent of national cocoa production. Malaysia's major cocoa importers include Singapore, the United States, Japan and several other Asian countries. Ramle said Sabah has an edge over other states due to its use of modern technology, advanced processing methods, effective marketing strategies and attractive packaging. "Most farmers in Sabah are skilled in cocoa cultivation," he added. "Sabah has over 3,000 hectares of cocoa plantations, cultivated by about 3,000 cocoa farmers in areas such as Ranau, Tenom, Kota Marudu, Keningau, and Kuamut. "The state also produces high-quality human capital to manage cocoa production and related industries. "Additionally, we have a significant advantage in terms of high-quality planting materials," he said during the MCB Media Appreciation Night held at a hotel here last night. The price of cocoa has tripled from RM8,000 per tonne in 2023 to between RM20,000 and RM35,000 per tonne in 2024. "Although the price fluctuates, it remains attractive at around RM20 per kilogramme of dried cocoa," he said. "This is a strong motivation for existing cocoa growers and an incentive to attract new ones." Although weather remains a challenge affecting yields, Ramle said MCB has developed quality planting materials that can adapt to local climates and changing weather conditions. The board has also conducted research and development to improve planting materials and fertilisers, and has ventured into Internet of Things (IoT) applications to boost productivity and reduce reliance on manual labour. "With current returns, many estates are returning to cocoa cultivation, which will further expand the sector," he added. MCB chairman Datuk Matbali Musah said several countries including those from Europe, Japan, and the Asian region have confirmed their participation in the Malaysian International Cocoa Fair 2025, scheduled to be held from May 24 to 27 at the Sabah International Convention Centre here. "This programme will help boost Malaysia's image globally, and we are proud that Sabah will be the host," he said.
Borneo Post
22-04-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
LKM stresses storytelling as key to cocoa industry growth
Matbali, LKM Director-General Datuk Dr Ramle Kasin, SJA President Mariah Doksil, invited guests and the media practitioners during the dinner last night. KOTA KINABALU (April 22): The Malaysian Cocoa Board (LKM) believes that the development of the cocoa industry is not solely about export and production figures, but also about building a compelling narrative. LKM Director-General Datuk Dr Ramle Kasin said the narrative of hope, resilience, innovation and community impact must be widely shared. 'In this regard, we view the collaboration between LKM and the media not merely as a communication need, but as a strategic plan that must be developed together — sharing stories and news content that can holistically advance the nation's cocoa industry. 'In terms of export and production achievements, I'm pleased to share that the cocoa sector continues to grow and has recorded positive performance,' he said at the Media and Strategic Partners Appreciation Night here yesterday. He said that in 2024, Malaysia recorded export earnings of RM15.06 billion, showing an increase of RM6.86 billion — an 83.66 percent rise compared to RM8.20 billion in 2023. Local cocoa production also saw an increase, with a total of 445.37 metric tonnes. As such, he said this year LKM is planning more high-impact communication initiatives, particularly in the lead-up to the Malaysia International Cocoa Fair (MICF) 2025, which will be held in Sabah. 'We want Malaysia's cocoa story to be told not only to the people of Malaysia but also on the global stage, and we are confident that only through close collaboration with the media can this be achieved. 'LKM also welcomes proposals from the media for collaborative efforts such as journalism workshops related to the cocoa industry, media familiarisation programs, and joint publications of special features. We are ready to listen, discuss and act,' he said. Meanwhile, Sabah Journalists Association (SJA) president Mariah Doksil said that in Malaysia, media practitioners carry a significant responsibility as the role of journalists is to report accurate, verified and responsible information to the public. 'Looking at LKM's perspective, in my view, an industry's story is not just about reporting numbers. Not all media content is based on export and production statistics. 'For those of us in the creative industry, storytelling can come from many angles. 'Stories about cocoa plantations and bean production, we may often read about them in print or watch them on electronic media but if we delve deeper into the lives of communities around the plantations, stories of youth returning to their villages to work on cocoa farms, innovation and technological adaptation in remote areas, and grassroots stories from the cocoa downstream sector … these are all stories of great value,' she said. According to her, such stories are not only of interest to the local community but also serve as a joint effort to place Sabah on the radar of investors and global industry players. She said SJA is ready to continue offering support, whether through coverage or storytelling, to add value to the cocoa industry in the state. 'We also welcome the organisation of the Malaysia International Cocoa Fair 2025, which will be held at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) next month. 'Undoubtedly, a world-class platform such as this will bring wide-ranging benefits to the local economy and the people at large,' she said.
