PETALING JAYA: A contrasting narrative has emerged within Malaysia’s fresh fruit market, highlighting the complexities of the agricultural sector.
According to the Agriculture Department, Malaysia’s fruit production reached 1,889,000 tonnes last year, marking continued growth. However, wholesalers like Chin Nyuk Moy, who is Kuala Lumpur Fruits Wholesalers’ Association president, said the supply of local fruits such as rambutan and mangosteen had noticeably dropped over the past decade.“Fruit suppliers seldom offer these kinds of fruits now,” she said.“They are usually sold at roadside stalls only.
“Vietnam and the Philippines have become key suppliers, though imports come at a premium, costing up to RM60 for a 13kg box,” she said. Ting voiced concern that the continuous climb in operating costs may compel many producers to downsize or cease operations entirely. He also said farming on hilly terrain requires specialised machinery but current agricultural equipment is mostly designed for flat landscapes, hindering their plans for mechanisation.“Our farmers receive no such support,” he claimed.