By: Aida Aziz
BATU GAJAH: The first Premium Japanese Melon farm in Malaysia, located here, is set to receive support and guidance from the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI) Perak to enhance the quality of its products.
Additionally, the Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (FAMA) is collaborating in this effort by targeting a broader market for the farm’s produce.
According to MARDI Perak Director, Zaiha Zeeti Mohamad Yusob, Hami Ecofarms is already known for producing high-quality organic crops.
“Among the assistance we can provide is consultancy on post-harvest handling,” she explained.
“MARDI will help the company improve product quality, especially in terms of post-harvest handling. We will also offer consultation to help them export these Premium Japanese Melons, as their shelf life is limited. Once harvested, they must reach customers within seven days,” she said.
Zaiha Zeeti made the remarks during a visit as part of the FAMA and MARDI collaboration program on post-harvest handling techniques for Premium Japanese Melons at Hami Ecofarms.
Also present were FAMA Kinta District Officer, Ahmad Zaki Ahmad, and MARDI Post-Harvest Program Deputy Director, Wan Mohd Reza Ikwan Wan Hussin.
Around 15 attendees from MARDI and FAMA were briefed on the process and taken on a tour of the farm by Hami Ecofarms Managing Director, Aw Chee Choy.
Zaiha Zeeti further highlighted the challenges faced by the farm, particularly in maintaining organic farming practices.
“There are many challenges with this type of farming, such as ensuring good ventilation to promote healthy fruit growth. Each vine produces only one fruit to ensure consistent quality and weight. Organic farming also takes longer compared to using chemicals, but in the long run, the company actually saves on soil treatment costs,” she added.
Ahmad Zaki noted that few melon producers have successfully maintained the quality that Hami Ecofarms has achieved.
In fact, the farm has become the sole producer of Premium Japanese Melons in Malaysia.
“This is the first farm in Malaysia to cultivate premium Japanese melon seeds. We are assisting the company in expanding its export market, and the process is in its final stages. Soon, they will be able to market their products internationally.
“We know that this premium product targets a niche market due to its higher price, which reflects its quality.
Although Japanese melons, or rock melons, have been on the market for a while, this premium variety is new to many consumers,” he said.
