PONTIAN, June 28: Plans to lift the profile of the pineapple with its leafy crown into a national fruit are in the works, according to Malaysian Pineapple Industry Board (LPNM) chairman Sheikh Umar Bagharib Ali.
He said LPNM is working towards that but plans are still in the early stages.
“We see the potential of pineapples not only in terms of economic value, but the characteristics of the fruit itself is what makes it eligible to be raised in appeal to become a national fruit.
“…(Therefore) the proposal will be taken to the attention of the Minister (of Agriculture and Food Security Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu) and later to the Cabinet and subsequently the highest level,” he said after officiating the 2024 Malaysian Pineapple Day celebration in Alor Bukit here yesterday. LPNM director-general Mohd Khairuzamri M Salleh was also present.
Sheikh Umar said pineapples have not only lifted smallholders out of poverty but also increased the country’s income.
In addition, he said pineapples have useful features with the concept of ‘Grow One, Harvest Three Times’ and zero waste.
- BERNAMA