Teo (third from left) and other VIPs showing pineapple-based products during the course.
With stable prices and a broad market, pineapples could become a new source of income for rural communities.
Sarawak Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing said pineapple cultivation had big income potential.
“Pineapple is easy to grow and demand for it is rising in export markets as well,” he said at the opening of the 2025 Pineapple Cultivation Course held at Rumah Nyudang Jalin, Kanowit, a small town along Sungai Rajang.
Tiong’s speech text was read by his representative councillor Paul Teo who is also Progressive Democratic Party Sibujaya chairman.
Also present were Sarawak Malaysian Pineapple Industry Board director Mohd Nazaiful Azdi Rahman and Seremban One Malaysia Community Cooperative chairman Ho Kok Yew.
Tiong, who is also Dudong assemblyman, said the course was held to guide participants on more efficient planting techniques, plant care and product marketing.
“With the knowledge and skills acquired, I trust that longhouse residents will be able to make pineapple cultivation a sustainable source of income, yielding profitable returns for those who engage in it,” he said.
Tiong encouraged attendees to explore downstream opportunities such as processing pineapple-based products including jam, juice and snacks.
“The same applies to other items such as washing liquid produced from pineapple peel.
“Not only does this add value to the crop but it also creates opportunities for more entrepreneurs within our community,” he said.
He added that both federal and state governments remained committed to supporting small-scale farmers through various initiatives, including the provision of quality seed assistance, technical training and product marketing.
Tiong urged all course participants to make full use of the knowledge gained and to collaborate with relevant agencies to boost agricultural yields.
“I hope this course marks the beginning of greater success for everyone involved.
“With dedication, we can develop pineapple cultivation into an industry that benefits the entire community,” he said.
