Melaka, Aug 31 (Bernama) -- Melaka emerged as the first state to pioneer the direct marketing of fresh produce from members of the Farmers' Organisation Authority (LPP) to consumers through selected Petronas petrol stations.
Its deputy director-general (Development), Mohd Fauzi Badron, said the initiative, carried out in collaboration with Petronas business partners, was launched at eight petrol stations across Melaka last July 15 and will be expanded to 32 stations statewide within two years.
"Melaka was chosen for the pilot project because of an existing agreement with the Area Farmers’ Organisation (PPK) and the support of Petronas business partners at the state level.
“So far, the findings from initial studies, as well as feedback from farmers and consumers, have been very encouraging. InsyaAllah, as long as Petronas continues to support the programme, it will remain viable.
“If the model proves successful, it will be expanded to other states, beginning with the southern region,” he told reporters after launching the Farmer Product Marketing Programme with Petronas Business Partners in Semabok here.
He said the programme allows fresh products such as vegetables, fruits, chicken, and goat meat produced by PPK members to be sold at affordable prices, as they are marketed directly without involving middlemen.
"In addition to providing new market opportunities, this initiative is hoped to help increase PPK's profits, thus allowing excess benefits to be returned to members.
"Although the profits are not large, what is more important is that this effort will provide added value to farmers in terms of marketing their produce and at the same time make it easier for consumers,” he said.
-BERNAMA
