Kota Kinabalu: Sabah made an agricultural milestone today with the maiden shipment of fresh MD2 pineapples totalling 15 tonnes under the People’s Income Initiative (IPR) programme here. Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan, who is also the State Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry, said this ‘first export’ beyond Sabah marked the success of the state’s IPR -Agropreneur (IPR INTAN) project managed by the Sabah Rubber Industry Board (LIGS).
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the shipment to Rompin Integrated Pineapple Industries (ROMPINE) in the peninsula signals the achievement of Sabah’s smallholders in improving their lives through modern and high-value farming activities. Jeffrey highlighted the strategic steps taken by the state government to introduce crop diversification, including the high-potential MD2 pineapples, as part of their agricultural strategy.
Jeffrey stated that the MD2 pineapple planting project began in 2023 with an initial allocation of RM11.04 million from the Ministry of Economy, followed by an additional RM16.58 million allocation last year to expand the farming area. The government further approved a RM4 million allocation to develop a Pineapple Collection and Packaging Centre in Kota Marudu to strengthen the supply chain.
He noted that LIGS, traditionally known for its role in the rubber sector, has now expanded its involvement in high-value agriculture. The project exemplifies how LIGS is capable of bringing significant changes to smallholders and further contributing towards Sabah’s overall economic development.
Jeffrey explained that extensive studies were conducted to identify potential crops that could provide high returns, have a stable market, and are suitable for Sabah’s climate and soil. The MD2 pineapple was identified as the most suitable crop to be developed on a large scale.
He expressed appreciation to the Ministry of Economy, LIGS, farmers, and strategic partner companies such as ROMPINE and Una Crop, which have contributed to the success of this initiative. He concluded by stating that the state government would continue to support market-oriented farming to increase farmers’ incomes and ensure food security for the state and nation.