Losses Incurred By Pineapple Farmers Dropped To RM1.02 Mln Last Year

JOHOR BAHRU, June 28 (Bernama) -- Losses incurred by pineapple farmers nationwide due to unpredictable weather and natural disasters dropped significantly from RM7 million in 2021 to RM1.02 million last year.

Deputy Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Arthur Joseph Kurup said the decline was partly attributed to research outcomes, infrastructure development and innovations by the Malaysian Pineapple Industry Board (LPNM).

“For example, in 2021, the recorded losses amounted to RM7 million, which then dropped to RM2 million in 2022, RM1.8 million in 2023 and RM1.02 million last year,” he told a press conference after launching the 2025 International Pineapple Industry Seminar here today.

Arthur said the resilience of pineapple varieties and data collection efforts have also contributed to greater efficiency in cultivation.

Earlier in his speech, he urged LPNM to remain proactive in exploring new approaches and adapting to the challenges posed by natural disasters to safeguard farmers’ incomes and ensure a steady supply of quality pineapples for the market.

He said this includes early prevention and mitigation methods such as efficient irrigation and drainage systems, comprehensive data development, the adoption of digital technology and the Internet of Things (IoT), as well as the use of drones and solar energy.

The seminar, jointly organised by LPNM, the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry and the Universiti Putra Malaysia Alumni Association, was attended by about 400 participants from various backgrounds, including stakeholders in the pineapple industry and farm operators. 

-- BERNAMA