Currently , the nation imports approximately 530,000 metric tonnes of cocoa annually , valued at RM7.8 billion , highlighting the pressing need for increased local production .

Speaking at the Bagan Datuk Malaysian Cocoa Board Open Day at the Cocoa Research and Development Centre in Sungai Sumun , Perak , KPK Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani expressed concern over declining local production .

“ We used to produce almost 300,000 metric tonnes of cocoa , but today , it has dwindled to just 270 metric tonnes ,” he said .

Johari attributed this drop primarily to plant diseases , but assured that the Malaysian Cocoa Board ( LKM ) has made significant

Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani

progress in addressing these challenges .

At the event , Johari also introduced Bagan Datuk Single Origin Chocolate , a product designed to showcase the quality of Malaysian cocoa . He highlighted the lucrative nature of cocoa farming , with prices previously reaching RM30,000 per

tonne and current rates at around RM24,000 per tonne .

He noted : “ The cost of cultivation is approximately RM8,400 per tonne , leaving farmers with a significant profit margin .”

To support farmers , LKM has intensified efforts to identify and develop high-quality cocoa seeds and clones . Johari explained that cocoa trees begin yielding crops in two and a half years and remain productive for up to 25 years .

Additionally , the government has allocated RM10 million as a reserve fund to combat potential new cocoa diseases .

Looking forward , Johari emphasised engaging youth in cocoa cultivation , especially those with access to arable land . He pointed out that cocoa requires less intensive labour compared to oil palm and can be managed without relying heavily on foreign workers .

Johari explained : “ Through LKM , farmers will receive training in modern agricultural practices and superior seed distribution to boost both yields and quality .

“ The government aims to reduce cocoa imports over the next 10 to 15 years while strengthening the sustainability of local production .”

THE Malaysian government is setting its sights on expanding the biomass industry , a sector poised to make a significant contribution to the nation ’ s economy .

By 2030 , the biomass industry is expected to generate RM17 billion in revenue and drive RM7 billion in investments , according to Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani .

In his remarks during a session in the Dewan Rakyat on October 28 , Johari outlined the immense potential of the biomass industry , which largely stems from waste materials in the palm oil sector .

He emphasised that Malaysia ’ s palm oil by-products , often regarded as waste , could be transformed into valuable resources for renewable energy and other industries .

GREEN GOLDMINE

The government , through the Malaysian Palm Oil Board ( MPOB ), is driving this initiative , which integrates these palm oil by-products back into the economy , in line with the principles of a circular economy and aims to reduce greenhouse gas ( GHG ) emissions .

Johari pointed out that the sector

would create approximately 33,000 new job opportunities in industries such as bio-pellet production , biomass energy generation , pulp and paper manufacturing , treated carbon , and biofertiliser production .

Moreover , Malaysia ’ s palm oil industry produces several byproducts , including empty fruit bunches ( EFB ), mesocarp fibres , and palm kernel shells , which hold significant potential for renewable energy production .

Johari highlighted how these palm oil biomass materials could

be used as biofuel in mills , saying : “ When burned in boilers , the steam powers turbines , creating electricity for reuse in the mills , which reduces dependence on conventional energy sources .”

SUSTAINABLE IMPACT

Additionally , Johari mentioned the palm oil mill effluent ( POME ), a byproduct that releases methane gas .

Increasingly , palm oil mills are capturing this biogas and turning it into renewable energy . The remaining waste is also being processed

into biofertiliser , contributing to more sustainable agricultural practices .

“ The circular economy approach in the palm oil sector not only helps reduce GHG emissions but also increases operational efficiency , leading to higher economic returns for the country .”

Johari also highlighted that EFB and palm oil trunks can also be used as mulch , enhancing soil moisture retention and reducing reliance on chemical fertilisers .

Johari explained : “ The biomass industry ’ s growth is an opportunity to create sustainable , high-value jobs for the younger generation while simultaneously reducing waste and promoting eco-friendly practices .

“ The government will continue to support this industry , ensuring that it becomes a key driver of our economy by 2030 .” – @ AGROBiz