HAMI EcoFarms: Pioneering Premium Japanese Melons in Malaysia
By: Rosli Mansor Ahmad Razali
The integration of environmentally friendly technology and sustainable agricultural practices not only enhances efficiency and eco-friendliness but also yields premium quality crops that are safe for both consumers and the farmers who cultivate them.
HAMI EcoFarms leads the way in modern and sustainable farming, successfully cultivating Malaysia’s ‘Premium Organically Grown Japanese Melons.’
Since 2020, HAMI EcoFarms Sdn Bhd has adopted advanced greenhouse technology to maximize agricultural output, ensuring top-quality products.
Managing Director of HAMI EcoFarms, Aw Chee Choy, said, “We operate a 10,000 square meter greenhouse dedicated to premium melon cultivation and an 8,500 square meter open field for passion fruit, which is ready for solar power generation.”
“We adhere to the principle of ‘The Best is Natural,’ emphasizing organic methods and ecological balance. We use organic fertilizers to maintain soil fertility without synthetic chemicals while focusing on effective climate management and pest control,” Aw shared during an interview at the Pengkalan II Industrial Area in Batu Gajah.
The Premium Japanese Melon Cultivation Process
The cultivation of HAMI melons follows a meticulous process, from seed germination to harvest, spanning 85-90 days.
On the first day, the seeds are sorted and soaked before being laid out for germination. The following day, the sprouted seeds are transferred to seedling trays. By the eleventh day, once the seedlings have developed two true leaves, they are transplanted into permanent greenhouse planting beds.
From the 12th to the 30th day, the plants undergo leaf development before flowering. During this period, the melon plants receive ample nutrients and water to ensure robust growth before hand-pollination is conducted between the 32nd and 38th days.
Among the pollinated flowers, only the best melon is selected for harvest, ensuring premium quality by concentrating all nutrients into a single fruit. Precise watering, done three to four times daily depending on the weather, is crucial for producing high-quality melons.
By the 75th day, the melons reach maturity, and after five to seven days of water rationing, harvesting is done between the 75th and 90th days, depending on the melon variety, Aw explained.
Varieties of Premium Japanese Melons
Among the premium Japanese melons cultivated at HAMI EcoFarms are Hami Akane, Hami Asahi, and Hami Fujisawa, which have orange flesh, as well as Hami Golden Emerald, Hami Hikari, and Hami Mizuki, which have yellow-green flesh.
Hami Golden Emerald (GE) and Hami Mizuki (MZK) feature golden-yellow skin with fine netting or slight ribs. The flesh is bright emerald green with a sweetness level of 13-14%, and the fruit weighs between 1.5 to 3.0 kilograms.
These melons are sweet and juicy, with a soft, crunchy, and refreshing texture. They emit a fragrant aroma when ripe and are highly popular, meeting strong market demand. These varieties are also favoured as gifts, representing tokens of appreciation, affection, or special occasions such as festive celebrations and important events.
Meanwhile, the Hami Akane, Hami Asahi, and Hami Fujisawa varieties are characterized by smooth netted skin in shades ranging from pale green to cream yellow.
These melons emit a sweet and pleasant fragrance when ripe, and are medium to large, weighing 1.8-2.5 kilograms each. Their orange flesh is juicy and crisp, with a high sweetness level of 15-16%.
Hami Hikari is the most premium and visually appealing variety. It has thicker ribbed skin or netting on light green skin. Its flesh is yellowish-green with a sweetness level of 13-14%.
This melon is juicy, with a milky soft texture, and a pleasant aroma when ripe. It is a medium-sized variety, weighing 1.5-2.5 kilograms each. It is especially popular as a special gift during festive seasons in Japan.
HAMI EcoFarms welcomes the public to explore the uniqueness of these crops, with visits available by appointment at 010-769 0733 or 016-557 0689.
Visitors will have the opportunity to taste these premium melons and will be offered special prices through current promotions.
These premium melons provide a truly unique satisfaction. More importantly, these organic products offer better health benefits for everyone.
