Melaka Fama Targets Rm8 Million In Sales This Year

ALOR GAJAH, Feb 3  (Bernama) -- Melaka Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (FAMA) aims to achieve a sales value of RM8 million  this year, with plans to expand at two new sites in Taman Maju Jasin and Ayer Molek.

Its director, Nor Azhar Abd Hamid said the sales performance of farmers' markets last year totalled RM6.45 million, encompassing seven market locations operating across the state.

"We are confident in achieving this target, given the positive community response as they continue to prefer farmers' markets for essential goods, demonstrating its sustained relevance even after 39 years of establishment.

"We also provide cost savings ranging from 10 to 30 per cent on farmers' market purchases compared to external markets, enabling consumers to access affordable food supplies,” he told reporters.

Earlier, he officiated the Agro Madani sales programme in conjunctiion with the 39th Anniversary Celebration of the Farmers' Market at the state level, held at the Masjid Tanah Farmers' Market and presented award certiicates to five loyal FAMA participants.

Nor Azhar highlighted that the inception of farmers' markets in the state dates back to 1986, starting with a modest 38 entrepreneurs, but it has evolved significantly over time, now boasting the active participation of 264 individuals.

"Despite being a consumer preference, farmers' markets encounter diverse challenges, particularly the competition presented by new supermarkets in specific areas," he said.

During today's programme, a variety of activities were carried out, featuring promotional sales like RM10 for a carton of eggs, Madani combo sets for RM10, discounted prices for fresh meat at RM35 per kilogramme and fresh chicken at RM8.30 per kilogramme. In addition, 150 packs of locally sourced white rice, each weighing 10kg, were made available at RM26.

He added that Melaka FAMA aims to organise 400 Agro Madani Sales over the course of the year, with a sales target of RM4 million.

-- BERNAMA