Kuala Lumpur: Bentong ginger has the potential to be the country’s strategic crop with Kota Tinggi as the primary hub for its production and processing, said Kota Tinggi MP Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin. He noted that the move could help generate sustainable income for the people, secure the country’s ginger supply, and reduce dependence on imported ginger.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohamed Khaled highlighted that Malaysia imports about 80 percent of its ginger for domestic use. He emphasized the importance of securing ginger supplies by cultivating and sourcing the crop locally. This initiative is expected to provide economic opportunities for the local population and curb the outflow of funds from the country. Mohamed Khaled made these remarks at the ceremony to harvest young Bentong ginger in Kampung Gembut, Tanjung Sedili.
He explained that the ginger cultivation programme, which involves Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) and local residents, aims to empower the rural economy through high-value agricultural projects. The ultimate goal is to position Kota Tinggi as a national food valley. The Bentong ginger cultivation initiative has shown promising results, delivering high returns in a short period, making it one of the most viable cash crops.
Mohamed Khaled elaborated on the economic potential, stating that the market price for one kilogramme of ginger can reach up to RM40, with each plant yielding about two kilogrammes. With 300 plants and a harvest cycle of every six months, participants could potentially earn about RM24,000 over this period, translating to RM4,000 a month. The cultivation and care process is straightforward, with guidance provided by the university, and mature ginger can fetch up to RM60 per kilogramme.
He also discussed the benefits of setting up cooperatives and participating in the downstream industry to generate additional income from processing ginger-based products. His long-term vision is to establish Kota Tinggi as the country’s primary hub for the ginger industry, encompassing cultivation, value chains, and downstream products. He encouraged the community to actively engage in agricultural projects rather than relying solely on government aid to ensure long-term sustainability and success.
Meanwhile, Kota Tinggi Timur Area Farmers Organisation chairman Hashim Muhammad mentioned that the project holds the potential to create more job opportunities and generate additional income for farmers, thereby uplifting the rural community. He expressed hope that this initiative could be expanded across the entire Kota Tinggi parliamentary constituency.