Melaka: The Lohan guava, known by its scientific designation GU16 and a staple of Melaka’s agricultural identity, has been rebranded as MelGuv, an abbreviation for Melaka Guava. Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh announced this rebranding initiative, which signifies a pivotal transformation aimed at enhancing the value of the state’s agricultural sector amidst the rising production of MelGuv.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ab Rauf highlighted that MelGuv is distinguished by its unique sweet and crunchy flavor, setting it apart from guavas produced in other regions. The largest MelGuv plantation is situated in Pulau Gadong, emphasizing the fruit’s importance to the local agricultural landscape. Last year, a substantial production of 1,139 metric tonnes of MelGuv was achieved across 80 hectares in Melaka. The announcement took place during the closing ceremony of the Melaka Agrofest 2025, with the presence of Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh, the state Rural Development, Agriculture, and Food Security committee chairman.
Commercial cultivation of guavas in Melaka commenced in 2023, and the annual production has already surpassed 1,000 metric tonnes, with expectations of continued growth. During the three-day agrofest, which commenced on Friday, 15,000 MelGuv fruits were distributed to visitors. Ab Rauf also reported significant achievements, including RM1.05 million in sales and 41,842 attendees over the first two days, with expectations of increased attendance on the final day.
He further emphasized that the agrofest continues to serve as a crucial platform for strengthening the agri-food sector. The event has evolved significantly since its inception as the Farmers, Livestock Breeders, and Fishermen’s Day in 1983. Looking forward, the state government is dedicated to advancing food security through various initiatives, such as expanding Permanent Food Production Parks.
Ab Rauf noted that the previous year saw the agriculture sector as the third-largest contributor to Melaka’s GDP, contributing RM4.8 billion and achieving a growth rate of 6.5 percent. This year, the Federal government has allocated RM10.2 million for high-impact agricultural projects, focusing on agro-tourism, the crop subsector, and the development of padi fields.