HOT AND DRY TEMPERTURE IN MALAYSIA

IN MALAYSIA recently the north-east monsoon is usually linked to heavy rain, but in the northern states of Peninsular Malaysia namely as Penang, Kedah and Perlis the later months bring weeks of hot and dry weather which is welcomed by padi and Harumanis mango farmers. While other states may still experience rainy weather, these three states are now facing dry and hot conditions that farmers welcome. For the harumanis entrepreneur known as Hamid said the fruits thrive under the current conditions, requiring an optimal temperature of around 32°C to develop their distinctive aroma and sweetness where the hot, dry weather helps the Harumanis ripen evenly and enhances its fragrance. The former teacher said some trees have started flowering, while many others are yet to bloom and the current heat is ideal for flowering and allowing the buds to develop properly. Hamid said that if the hot and dry conditions persist, fruiting could begin as early as February next year, with the possibility of an early harvest by March 2026. In other case a padi farmer known as Ismail from Kuala Nerang, said most farmers in his area have already begun their second planting season, with the harvest expected in middle or late January. While the dry weather was good, it also posed other challenges where the dry season often brings increased threats to our crops, with rats, rice pests and various diseases becoming particularly problematic. He added that this would force farmers to use more pesticides, a practice that raised the risk of 'padi kesing”' that caused stunted padi from normal growth. Our expectation is to harvest in January 2026 but if the dry season drags on the impact, it can be difficult for most padi farmers in Kedah. This article in "Anim Agriculture Technology" I share the issue of hot and high temperature incident in Kedah and surrounding this year.

Kedah and Perlis are the major area growing Manga Harumanis but if the weather turns unfavourable, delaying the next harvesting mango season may be changed the quality and quantity of which the farmer is considering. A report bya researcher from Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) atmospheric physicist Associate Prof Dr Yusri Yusup said the north-east monsoon brings in strong winds with minimal rainfall is a pattern expected to continue until early January 2026. He said there would be some rain, but not as heavy, with the second phase of the monsoon, and that the timing of the dry and wet phases could vary by about two weeks. Unlike last year, we are not expecting extreme heat, as persistent cloud cover is likely to remain over the region until mid-January 2026. He  added that rainfall would help lower temperatures temporarily, but heat is expected to build up again during the final phase of the north-east monsoon and the spring equinox, when the region typically receives little rain and experiences strong solar radiation.In other statement the Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP) chief executive officer Datuk K. Pathmanathan said Penang’s current dam reserves and regular operational management could sustain water supply until April 2026. He said the projection was based on steady river flow from Sungai Muda, normal drawdown rates without sudden surges in consumption and the absence of prolonged zero-rainfall periods. Currently, the Air Itam Dam has an effective storage of 1,955 million litres (ML), with about 89 days of supply remaining until early March 2026.vAlthough the dam alone cannot support demand until April 2026, it is typically operated alongside Sungai Muda through transfer and balancing. Reported that the Teluk Bahang Dam has about 297 days of supply available, sufficient to last until October 2026. Its effective storage stands at 17,720 ML. Added another main reservoir, the Mengkuang Dam, will have 132 days of supply that started from Dec 6, and the reserve is projected to last until mid-April 2026, meeting the April target but with limited buffer. PBAPP has activated a series of contingency measures to safeguard Penang’s water security amid prolonged dry conditions and will maximise abstraction from Sungai Muda at the Lahar Tiang intake as long as river levels remain above alert thresholds. A controlled drawdown strategy will also be enforced, involving staggered releases from the Air Itam, Teluk Bahang and Mengkuang dams to maximise overall yield. During extended dry spells, the higher-capacity Teluk Bahang and Mengkuang reservoirs will be prioritised.

Also reported that recently Malaysia sees persistently high temperatures amid heatwave where several parts of the country have seen temperatures soar above 36°C earlier this week, with the Meteorological Department forecasting the mercury to hover at about 35°C in most parts of the country daily until early May 2026. It’s been crazy weather in the country, with stiflingly hot, arid days and sweltering afternoons in some parts, followed by downpours and thunderstorms in the evening in others and it’s likely to stay that way for the next week or so, say weather experts. Several parts of the country have seen temperatures soar above the 36°C heatwave level earlier this week with the Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) forecasting the mercury to hover at about 35°C in most parts of the country daily until early May 2026. The east coast states are facing droughts, the dam levels are falling in Penang but in the Klang Valley during the evening thunderstorms are causing havoc, even landslides. Fellow at Academy of Sciences Malaysia Dr Fredolin Tangang said that thunderstorms were typical during the inter-monsoon periods that the country was currently facing. The current hot and dry spell is likely due to the suppressed convection associated with Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) which is likely to continue for about a week or two. He explained that MJO is a mode of climate variability that occurs due to atmosphere and ocean interaction. It typically occurs once in 20 to 60 days. While its current effect is hot and dry spells over our region, its enhanced convection can enhance rainfall as well and the nation was still in the inter-monsoon period between April and May where winds are weaker and not blowing in any particular direction. During daytime heat can make way for afternoon and evening thunderstorms, particularly in the west of the peninsula and Klang Valley. According to MetMalaysia, Perlis is expected to have 35°C temperatures until May 1 while Kelantan, Pahang, Perak and Kuala Lumpur are expected to be at around 34°C in the same time period. The other states, including Sabah and Sarawak, will average around 33°C during the day in the coming week or so. 

Reported that the night temperatures are expected to average at 24°C in Perlis, Kuala Lumpur, Negri Sembilan, Johor, Selangor and Melaka throughout the week. The remaining states’ night temperatures were forecast to be a chilly 23°C on average with Sabah, in particular, expected to go as low as 22°C. According to Senior lecturer at Universiti Malaya’s Department of Geography Dr Sheeba Chenoli also attributed the current weather to the MJO. She said the weather is expected to get drier as the inter-monsoon period gives way to the southwest monsoon. The phenomenon is not just in Malaysia. The hot weather, she said, was also felt in other countries in the region, particularly Laos, Thailand and Myanmar. She said these countries could expect even drier conditions in the coming months. Universiti Malaya meteorologist and climatologist Prof Datuk Dr Azizan Abu Samah said the weather was expected to remain hot, particularly in north of the peninsula. Kedah and Perlis now have hot days with cloudless mornings and thunderstorms in the evenings. Thanks...

By,
M Anem,
Kuala Lumpur,
Malaysia.
(April 2026).

HIGH TEMPERATURE AFFECT FOOD SUPPLY

THE HIGH TEMPERATURE started in from February to April 2026 and prolonged dry spells in Malaysia, particularly during El Nino-induced heatwaves, are causing significant damage to crops, reducing yields, and increasing operational costs for farmers, according to reports by the New Straits Times (NST) portal. reported that based on recent (March 2026) reports, the key impacts on Malaysian agriculture include for the Padi Production Affected in which over 13,000 hectares of padi fields in Perak (specifically Seberang Perak and Sungai Manik) have been affected by water supply shortages. Similarly, hundreds of hectares of rice fields in Kedah, Negri Sembilan, and Melaka are experiencing stunted growth and dry conditions with potential yields threatened by up to 30%–80% in extreme scenarios. In other case in which in Cameron Highlands Vegetable Yields farmers are on alert as high temperatures exceeding 30°C in the northern states indicate that warmer, drier conditions will soon hit the highlands, affecting temperate vegetable farming and reducing yields. Earlier reports noted smaller, sour strawberry harvests due to heat stress. Issue of Water Scarcity and Costs whereby the farmers are facing rising operational costs due to the need for increased water usage, including installing pumps and water tanks. In other case the mixed effects on fruits seen in which some reports indicate that prolonged heat has boosted the quality and sweetness of Harumanis mangoes (MA224) in the northern peninsula, it also poses challenges in terms of crop management, requiring more intensive irrigation to prevent wilting. The impact also occure for livestock that stress in which the high temperatures have caused livestock, such as cattle, to suffer from heat stress, with some farmers losing cattle, which in turn leads to significant economic losses. This article in "Anim Agriculture Technology" blog explained the issue on high temperature affect food supply in Malaysia as reported by local mainstream media.

Reported also the Cameron Highlands farmers on alert as heatwave threatens vegetable yields whereby vegetable farmers in Cameron Highlands are on alert following the prolonged hot and dry spell in the northern states, with past weather patterns suggesting similar conditions could reach the highlands by April or May 2026. According to the Cameron Highlands Chinese Farmers Association deputy president Cheng Nan Hong said historical trends show that when temperatures in northern states exceed 30°C for a prolonged period, the highlands typically average at 23°C with at the greenhouse temperatures reaching 28°C. He said such temperatures were not optimal for temperate vegetable farming and could significantly reduce yields. As for now, temperatures remain manageable, as Cameron Highlands is typically warmer after the hot and dry spell in Kedah, Penang and Perlis subsides. If temperatures in Ipoh climb to about 36°C in April or May, the average temperature in Cameron Highlands could reach 23°C, translating to around 28°C in greenhouses and if this happens, mild-weather vegetables will wilt and production will be badly affected. The hot and dry spell in the northern states has persisted since early January, with Kedah the worst affected. The Meteorological Department said temperatures in the state have reached between 37°C and 40°C, with little to no rainfall over the past three months. A Kedah-based poultry operator, Mazlina Kamarudin, said the prolonged heat had forced operators to incur additional costs for water supply logistics but the production was stable with sufficient supply. The additional cost for water supply is not significant to the point that chicken and egg prices need to be increased where prolonged or worsening conditions could eventually affect production. According to Malaysian Coastal Fishermen's Network Education and Welfare Association chairman Che Ani Mat Zain said the prevailing weather pattern had also affected coastal fishing, although it is not a new phenomenon. For them this is not new to us. It has been happening since the 1970s, but climate change has intensified the heat during this period in the northern states.

Reported on mainstream media in which over 13,000ha of padi fields in Kedah and Perak affected by hot weather first quarter in 2026. Above are phote of a padi field in Kampung Tebuk Panchor in Bagan Serai, Perak that severely affected by the hot and dry weather recently. Padi fields in the Seberang Perak Irrigation Scheme and Sungai Manik Irrigation Scheme located in the Perak Tengah and Hilir Perak districts have been affected by the hot weather phenomenon and it is understood that the padi fields covering an area of ​​13,356ha are facing water supply problems due to the hot and dry weather and the lack of rain recently and this incident has affected padi growth. Stated that state government would submit the issue to the relevant parties to find the best solution to ease the burden of about 5,561 padi farmers and ensure that padi yields continue to be guaranteed. During inspection the area yesterday and it is very serious because it affects the padi industry in the Seberang Perak Integrated Agricultural Development Area (IADA) which is one of the country's main padi granaries. Also steted that assistance from the Perak Drainage and Irrigation Department (DID) to add water pumps to provide a more stable water supply to the padi fields. The government asked to bear the cost of purchasing diesel for water pumps because it was found that farmers had to bear the cost of diesel for water pumps provided by IADA and DID and urged the farmers and the people to perform prayers to ask for abundant rain. reported that two days ago, the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) announced that the entire state of Perlis, four districts in Kedah and one district in Perak had recorded a Level 2 heat wave, while 13 other areas in Peninsular Malaysia were at Level 1, which is on alert. and according to MetMalaysia, Level 2 is declared when the daily maximum temperature exceeds between 37 and 40 degrees Celsius for at least three consecutive days, while Level 1 refers to the daily maximum temperature between 35 and 37°C during the same period. Thanks...

By,

M Anem,

Senior Agronomist,

Room 507, Micasa All-Suite Hotel,

Kuala Lumpur,

Malaysia.

(April 2026)

ABOUT ORCHIDS POTENTIAL IN MALAYSIA

ORCHIDS are the largest and most diverse of the flowering plant families. Their exotic beauty, complexity and rainbow of colours are unrivalled in the plant world. They are among the most popular species of plants anywhere in the world. They are used to brighten up many places from walkways to posh restaurants and airports. It isn’t difficult to learn how to take care of orchid plants. They require very little care once all their basic needs, such as the amount of sun light, humidity and water they get, are met. Most orchids require moist, well-draining conditions. You can use clay or terracotta pots with several types of growing media like fir bark, rocks, charcoal, sand or potting soil. You can grow orchids on trees too. Growing them on trees saves not only space but also money as you don’t have to buy pots and re-pot every few months.  In fact, those who love this exotic flowering plant prefer to plant them on trees as they grow better and healthier than in pots. Orchids originate in diverse habitats, from treetops in full sun to shaded swamps. In the blog "Anim Agriculture Technology" I write about orchid chit-chat ccolumn about orchid potential as a commodity for domestic and export market.

The first thing you would need to do is to evaluate your garden’s exposure, and select the appropriate species and hybrids. Many varieties are suitable for intermediate conditions. A local orchid nursery can help make selections for you after you briefly tell them the conditions of your garden. Choose a tree that receives adequate light to plant the orchids you have selected. Next, start attaching the orchids to the tree with a string when root activity of the orchids starts. Many orchids produce roots year round, so they can be established on trees at any time. Tie the orchids as high up as possible, but not in the area where it will be shaded by the branches of the tree as this could deter their growth. Set the plants directly on the trunk to increase their ability to cling to the host. Do not add a pad of sphagnum moss, or other medium as this would keep the surface too wet and induce rot. Fertilise the orchids weekly or bi-weekly when they are producing new growth and decrease it to monthly or bi-monthly intervals once they mature. Provide adequate care, especially during the first few months after the orchids are attached to a tree. Keep an eye out for signs of pests or diseases. They may come occasionally because of the moist conditions. Also, mist with a hose, or run a sprinkler line-up in the tree to keep the orchids cool especially during hot weather conditions. Some species may require higher humidity and more frequent mistings. Remove the string once the roots have attached to the tree. Keeping the strings on may prevent the orchids’ growth and they could eventually die. Once established and well cared for, orchids last for many years and produce flowers multiple times. It will give your garden a new feel. Thanks...

By,

M Anim,

Apmt No 1, 9th Floor,

Geo38 Tower, Genting Highland,

Benting, Pahang,

Malaysia.

(29 August 2020).

Updated

30 Mac 2026.

BAMBOO HARVESTING AND USAGE

HAPPY HARI RAYA AIDILFITRI 2026!

THE BAMBOO PLANT is best harvested for construction (culms) at 3-7 years of age during the dry season (post-monsoon) to minimize starch content, reducing pest susceptibility, ideally just before sunrise. For food the shoots (or called as 'Rebung' in Malay) are harvested in spring when 6-12 inches high. Proper selection and using sharp tools are avoiding damage to the rhizome are critical for sustainable harvesting (see phote above). First the most important way for harvesting bamboo called 'Harvesting Bamboo Poles' ot the Bamboo Timber is the timing in which the end of the rainy season or the start of the dry season is ideal to minimize sugar or the starch levels, which attracts pests. The suitable age for maturity culms (from 3 - 7 years old) are best for strength and durability. Normally the young, light green culms (0 - 2 years) are too soft, while those over 7 years start losing strength. For the selestion in Malaysia ia to look for dark green or grey-green culms rather than bright green. The technique is to use a sharp saw or machete to cut close to the ground, above the first or second node. Avoid dragging or dropping cut culms during handling to prevent cracking. Second is Harvesting Bamboo Shoots (Food) in which the timing during spring, when new shoots emerge, is the prime time. The shoots cut wasa between 6 - 12 inches long are generally ideal, though some may be tender up to a foot. Use a spade or specialized tool to cut the shoot at or just below the soil level. For better sustainability advice to only harvest about half of the available shoots, allowing enough to grow into mature culms to replenish the grove. Practice to harvest in early morning reduces moisture weight (See photo above). As maintenance regularly removing older, dead culms improves the health of the grove. The best storage if not cooking immediately is to keep shoots in a cool, dark place or, for short periods, with the root nodule attached. This article in "Anim Agriculture Technology" blog I share about harvesting bamboo ans popular product.

Based on reports from the New Straits Times (NST) and related Malaysian agricultural developments, bamboo harvesting in Malaysia is being developed as a sustainable, high-potential agrocommodity, particularly for the furniture, construction, and biomass industries. Key aspects include: Harvesting Cycle & Sustainability: Bamboo is a fast-growing, sustainable resource that can typically be harvested within 3–5 years of planting. Once mature, 20 - 25% of the poles in a plantation can be harvested annually without reducing the overall number of poles per hectare, preventing deforestation. Harvesting Techniques:Shoots: Farmers harvest shoots by snapping them off at soil level or, for deeper roots, digging around them and cutting with sharp tools, such as small hoes or curved knives, to avoid damaging the main clump. About the poles selection the mature bamboo poles are typically cut near the base using tools like machetes (small-scale) or chainsaws (large-scale). The best timing or optimal harvesting occurs at the end of the rainy season or the start of the dry season to minimize pest susceptibility (See photo above). In Malaysia reported that The FGV Agri Services Sdn Bhd has established plantations (e.g., in Chiku 4, Gua Musang) focusing on Betong bamboo (Dendrocalamus asper) or locally known as 'Buluh Betong' in which is used for construction, furniture, and feedstock. The Malaysian Timber Industry Board (MTIB) is promoting bamboo cultivation through soft loans and research to reduce the trade deficit as support to this program. The government is exploring converting 420,000 hectares of underutilized or abandoned rubber plantations into bamboo farms. Despite high potential, the industry faces challenges, including labor shortages, pest management, and land availability for large-scale planting. There are approximately 59 species found in Peninsular Malaysia, including genera like Bambusa, Dendrocalamus, Dinochloa, Racemobamboos, Schizostachyum, Thyrsostachys and Gigantochloa. Bamboo is seen as a 'green gold' alternative to timber, providing substantial ecological benefits like soil conservation and carbon sequestration.

The Malaysian bamboo industry is expanding, aiming to capitalize on a global market projected to reach nearly US$100 billion by 2028. Under the Malaysia Bamboo Industry Development Action Plan 2021-2030, the focus is on developing value-added products like engineered flooring, panels, furniture, and sustainable construction materials. Despite high potential, growth faces challenges from limited plantation land, with exports valued at RM9.9 million in 2018. Key insights on bamboo products from NST and related industry reports:Construction and Furniture in which bamboo is recognized as a sustainable alternative to timber for flooring, fencing, furniture, and structural applications. Innovative applications include using bamboo for eco-friendly cooling tower grids. For skincare the bamboo extracts are used in high-end skincare, such as cleansers, essences, and emulsions, noted for their hydrating properties. The industry is crucial for green initiatives, with the Ministry of Plantation and Commodities encouraging more land allocation for bamboo cultivation to meet rising demand. The industry, regulated by the Malaysian Timber Industry Board (MTIB), seeks to overcome a trade deficit by enhancing downstream, high-value products rather than just raw material exports. Thanks...

By,

M Anem,

Senior Agronomist,

Melaka,

Malaysia.

(Febuary 2026).

TALK ABOUT BLACK THORN DURIAN

There are more thag 220 durian varieties (Durio zibethinus)  registered in Malaysia in which the criteria for identifying and grading the premium Black Thorn durian (D200) focus on its unique physical characteristics and taste profile are esplained in this article. First about External Physical Characteristics of this durian about the shape which is round and plump, similar to a small pumpkin or watermelon. Talk about the name of 'black thorn' refers as 'A small, dark, withered stamen (dried flower piece) remains at the bottom of the fruit' are the most relevan and this is often found within a concave 'navel' or indent at the base. Talk about the husk and spikes normally the husk is typically a dull greyish-green or greenish-brown and the thorns have green bases with dark brown tips. Talk about the stem: whis is notably short and stubby and often described as being only as long as a thumb. About their weight in which the premium Grade A fruits typically weigh between 2.0 kg and 3.0 kg, though some can exceed 5 kg. Second criteria about durian Back Thorn interm of the Internal Flesh and Texture Color where it features a vibrant deep orange to rosy flame hue. Older trees produce a darker and more 'rusty' orange flesh. The core markings of this varieties as a signature trait is a thick core with a reddish-brown line or 'drain' running down the center. About the flesh texture reported that it extremely smooth, silky, and custard-like also it is almost fiberless and has a thin, translucent skin over the pulp. Enjoy durian refer to the taste and Aroma Profile Flavor Complexity in whicah a perfect balance of intense sweetness followed by a subtle bitterness and a faint alcoholic or wine-like aftertaste.
Aroma: Pungent but with distinct floral and sweet notes, often described as less aggressive and more "perfume-like" than the Musang King. Also, about grading and quality standardssuch as tree age whereby the fruit from mature trees (older than 30 - 40 years) is highly prioritized as it yields a more intense flavor, deeper color, and flatter fruit shape compared to younger trees. In Malaysia durian farmers emphasize picking at exactly the right time to prevent the flesh from becoming too ripe. The criteria for a premium Black Thorn (D200) durian are based on specific, high-quality physical and their original taste characteristics. This articlr in "Anim Agriculture Technology" blog I write abaou the criteria og Durian Black Rhorn as a source of technical report. Below are the facts of Durian Black Thorn that was a very popular premium durian varietiy:

(1) DESCRIPTION OF TASTE

Black Thorn durians are small to medium fruits, averaging 1.5 to 3 kilograms, and generally have a round shape with a short, squat stem. The fruits sometimes display prominent, longitudinal seams, giving the surface a bulbous, bubbled appearance, and the angular, wide pyramidal spikes range in color from green, green-brown, to grey-green. At the bottom of the fruit, there is a distinct dried flower stamen found within the concave center, which is labeled as the “thorn” of the durian. This shriveled flower piece is not considered a defining characteristic of Black Thorn durians, as it can be easily snapped off, but beneath the stamen is a small, dark lump. Underneath the sharp exterior, the surface is sliced open to reveal large, fleshy lobes nestled in multiple chambers. There is also a valley or open section between the chambers in the core, sometimes known as a “drain,” revealing golden-orange tones. The flesh ranges in color from pale pink-orange, yellow, golden-orange, to dark orange depending on the tree's age. Dark flesh is an indication of mature trees. The flesh is finely wrinkled, almost fiberless, and has a very thin, translucent surface that can be easily pierced, releasing the soft, creamy flesh. Black Thorn durians are known for having a dense but soft, tender, and light consistency with high sugar and fat content, contributing to an intense, complex flavor. The flesh bears a rich, wine-like aroma and is sweet, fruity, pungent, and subtly bitter with a faint alcoholic aftertaste. It is important to note that fruits grown on mature trees have a more developed and favorable flavor. Younger trees tend to produce fruits with a very sweet, artificial-like strawberry taste. Normally the seasons or the availability of durian Black Thorn is only available for a limited season, primarily found in late July or August. The fruits may also appear for a brief second season in December or January, depending on the region.

2. THE CURRENT FACTS
Black Thorn durians are botanically a part of the Durio genus and are a rare, hybrid variety belonging to the Malvaceae family. The characteristic round fruits are a Malaysian cultivar that was first grown in the mid to late 20th century, but Black Thorn durians did not become a desired variety until the early 21st century. Black Thorn durians are known by a few other names, including D200, Ochee, Hei Tze, and Duri Hitam in Malay. The fruits earned their unusual name from the small, black flower stamen remnant sometimes attached to the bottom of the fruit, known as the “thorn.” In the past decade, Black Thorn durians have quickly increased in demand across Malaysia and Southeast Asia due to celebrity endorsements, durian contests and awards, and local media outlets. Some durian enthusiasts also claim the variety will eventually become more popular than musang king durians. Currently, the demand for Black Thorn durians surpasses the supply as the best tasting fruits are harvested from very old, mature trees. Many of the Black Thorn durian trees in Malaysia are still considered young, limiting the supply of quality-tasting fruits. Black Thorn durians are a luxury variety that often sells out within hours of the fruits being harvested, and is sought after for its exclusivity, complex flavor, and light, soft, and melting flesh. Talk about the nutritional value in which Black Thorn durians are an excellent source of vitamin C, an antioxidant that strengthens the immune system, boosts collagen production, and reduces inflammation. The fruits are also a good source of potassium to balance fluid levels within the body, magnesium to regulate blood pressure, fiber to stimulate the digestive tract, manganese to assist with protein digestion, and contain lower amounts of phosphorus, iron, copper, and zinc. In Malaysia, Black Thorn durians are primarily consumed raw as the rare variety is savored for its intensely sweet and subtly bitter flavor when fresh. The cultivar is challenging to find in local markets, and consumers often have to seek out multiple growers to track down one of the fruits. With its limited availability, Black Thorn durians are also expensive, leading consumers to choose to eat the flesh raw in order to experience the variety’s full flavor. Black Thorn durians are valued for their dense, soft flesh, and many consumers comment that the flesh does not feel as heavy as other durian varieties in the stomach. Despite the fruit being mainly consumed raw, Black Thorn durians can be used in any recipe calling for durian, including shakes, sticky rice, porridges, and desserts. In rare circumstances, Black Thorn durians are also frozen and consumed as an icy treat on hot, humid days. Black Thorn durians should be eaten immediately once opened for the best quality and flavor. The flesh can also be frozen for two months in an airtight, sealed package.

3. ADDITIONAL INFO
Black Thorn durians are famously sold at Jawi Pesta Durian, also known as the Jawi Durian Festival in Malaysia. The annual event features multiple vendors selling many different durian varieties, allowing visitors to sample both rare and common durian cultivars. Each vendor often constructs tables to crack open the fresh fruits for visitors to share in a relaxed setting. Jawi Pesta Durian is held to celebrate the diversity among the durian varieties. Durian connoisseurs appreciate Jawi Pesta Durian as it allows for sampling of the same varieties through multiple vendors. Among varieties such as the Black Thorn durian, fruits will widely vary in flavor depending on the tree's age, and purchasing the fruit from multiple vendors will provide a better understanding of the fruit’s true flavor. At the festival, two vendors are known for selling Black Thorn durians. Leow Cheok Keong, the farmer who registered Black Thorn durians with the Malaysian Department of Agriculture, has been selling durians at the festival for many years. Leow has a developed a reputation among locals for his quality and reasonably priced durians. Peter Lai, the largest distributor of durian in Penang, is also known for his Black Thorn durians and sells the fruits at his 668 Durian Stall. In Malaysia Black Thorn durians were first grown along the coastal mainland of Penang in Lima Kongsi. The variety was believed to have been created by Bagi Kau, a farmer who cultivated an unknown Thai durian and hybridized the variety with a local Malaysian durian. Kau kept Black Thorn durians a secret for many years, selling the fruits to consumers on a waitlist, and refused to propagate the trees. In the mid-1980s, Kau eventually allowed his friend Leow Cheok Keong to take cuttings from the beloved durian tree and graft the variety on his farm in Nibong Tebal. The initial fruits grown from the cuttings were pale and artificially sweet, lacking a distinct flavor, leading Leow to mostly ignore the disappointing fruits. It took over 30 years for the trees to mature and produce quality-flavored durians. While Leow was perfecting the flavor of his durians, Ah Heng, another durian farmer who works with durian distributor Peter Lai, grafted Black Thorn durians onto D24 trees on his farm in 2000. Ten years later, in 2010, Heng’s Black Thorn durians were sold through a durian stall at the Genting Highlands Resort near Kuala Lumpur, sparking the first publicity surrounding the new variety. In 2011, Leow was finally satisfied with his fruit’s flavor and was entered into the Penang State Government’s Annual Fruit Competition, where Black Thorn durians won second prize. Leow continued to enter Black Thorn durians into the competition, taking first prize the following three years, and generated international press around the variety. Leow registered Black Thorn durians with the Malaysian Department of Agriculture and was approved in 2015, listing the variety under the code D200. Today Black Thorn durians are one of the rarest Malaysian varieties and are in high demand, selling out within hours of being collected. The rare fruits are cultivated through multiple farms in Malaysia, especially in the states of Penang and Pahang and the territory of Kuala Lumpur. The fruits are also sometimes exported to Indonesia and China. Thanks.

By,

M Anem,

Senior Agronomist,

Melaka,

Malaysia.

(January 2026).

SARAWAK GOLD PINEAPPLE - A NEW VARIETY

The new Sarawak Gold 1 (SG1) pineapple variety often referred to as Sarawak Gold or simply SG1 reoirted as a promising new hybrid variety that is significantly impacting Malaysia's pineapple industry, particularly in Sarawak. This variety was introduced as a 'Gamechanger' in which the SG1 is known for its fast growth cycle, high-density cultivation, and high export potential. The key characteristics of SG1 include the criteria of fast harvesting period in which the SG1 has a short maturation period of only 9 -10 months compared to the 14 - 16 months required for the MD2 variety. This SG1 also reported as high yield and high-density planting ana a allows for high-density planting of up to 22,000 plants per acre. The quality is known for being exceptionally sweet, with a stable, delicate flesh that is ideal for both fresh consumption and processing. Potential for export in which the fruit has a small core and crown, making it suitable for export markets. For future the production and expansion in Sarawak where this variety was brought in from Taiwan to Miri, Sarawak in late 2022 and officially registered by the Ministry of Agriculture The expansion planting target not in Sarawak alone and will be exanded to Peninsular Malaysia. The rapidly expanding its cultivation area, with a goal to reach 20,000 hectares by 2030, supported by RM23 million in funding allocated for 2025 to boost infrastructure and seed production. Estimated production Hub establoshed as in mid-2024, there were 52.5 hectares of SG1 planted with projections for 11.9 million seedlings by 2026. MPIB (Malaysian Pineapple Industrial Board) stated that the industry shift in Sarawak has potential to overtake Johor as the main pineapple producer in Malaysia years to come. The state goverment plans to begin exporting the SG1 variety to Singapore and China in 2026 where teher are high demand for SG1 in Singapore, the UAE, Japan, South Korea, and Europe. Export Infrastructure: A RM1 billion foreign-backed export hub is being developed in Tanjung Manis, and a RM10 million canning facility is expected to be operational in 2026 to process this high-yield variety. As of January 2026, the national pineapple industry has surpassed its 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP) target with 19,000 hectares proposed planted nationwide. 2025 Expansion: By August 2025 thei variety was announced that Sarawak would start exporting SG1 to Singapore and China in 2026. In 2024 reported the shipments of SG1 were already being sent from Sarawak to Peninsular Malaysia for testing marketability in the processing sector. This article in "Anim Agriculture Technology" blog I write about the new registered pineapple from Sarawak known as 'Sarawak Gold-1' or SG-1 for Malaysian pineapple industry.

The media report that a total of 7,000 pineapples of the new variety Sarawak Gold 1 (SG1) weighing 10.5 metric tonnes will be sent to Peninsular Malaysia from TG Agro Fruit Sdn Bhd’s plantation in Kampung Sungai Tukau here. MPIB stated thhat the fruits will be placed in a 20-foot temperature-controlled cold container and will be sent to Johor Bahru accordingly. I was the main actor during the registration process of this variety owned bya Dato' Yap companies way back ini 2019 (See photo above). The container is expected to arrive at Pasir Gudang Port at the end of this month with delivery duration of two weeks. MPIB added that the 200-acre SG1 pineapple plantation in Sungai Tukau in which is located more than 12 kilometres from Miri city centre were pioneers in the cultivation, development and production of SG1 pineapples. MPIB’s Marketing Development Division, in collaboration with the Jabatan Pertanian (Department of Agriculture) and Malaysian Mard conducting quality for the observations and evaluations to see the durability and marketability of SG1 pineapples in the farm. The purpose of the work visit was to see the diversity of SG1 pineapple products. The fruits will be distributed to entrepreneurs selling canned and fresh pineapples as well as pineapple processing industries in the peninsula. To find out how long SG1 can last in a cold room, during delivery and for export, we will conduct observations and experiments. Currently the demand for local pineapples from foreign countries is getting higher. However, the country is only able to produce more than 800 containers of pineapples compared to the international export demand of approximately 4,000 containers. SG1 pineapples could contribute to increasing the supply of pineapple exports due to the advantages of the variety as the short harvest period of nine months and the planting density of up to 22,000 trees in one acre in which doubles the production. SG1 is a rather unique variety that is ideal for export because of its shape and smaller crest, among other characteristics. MPIB has closely followed and guided the development of the SG1 variety here since the beginning of 2022 until today. In 2021, pineapple tendrils began to be developed and grown commercially in stages at Sungai Tukau Pineapple Plantation on a 10-hectare land by Syarikat TG Agro Fruits Sdn Bhd, an entrepreneur registered under MPIB Sarawak. The preparation session for the purpose of observing the export of SG1 pineapples to Peninsular Malaysia was conducted during the visit.

The local media of Borneo Post stated that 'Potential To Export SG-1 to Peninsular' started. Approximately 10.5 tonnes of the new SG1 pineapples from Sarawak are scheduled for shipment to Peninsular Malaysia. The new pineapple SG1 pineapple variety was discovered in Miri two years ago (during my tenure at MPIB and DOA) will be shipped on Monday (April 22) and is expected to reach Johor Port in Pasir Gudang two weeks later. The fruits will be placed in a refrigerated shipping container and kept at a controlled temperature (See photo above). This is important as it will allow us to know how long SG1 pineapples can remain fresh under such conditions. This will then allow us to know the marketability of the SG1 pineapples, especially for export purposes and once the pineapples reach the port. The three main features that make this new variety of pineapple unique claimed are first, the size of the plant is small in which allows for high-density planting that could produce higher yield. On top of that, it takes only about eight to nine months for the SG1 pineapples to mature and ready to be harvested. Other varieties take at least one year to reach that stage. Finally, the cylindrical shape of the fruits makes them ideal for processing and export. From the observation despite its uniqueness, the SG1 pineapple trade is still in the early stage and more needs to be done to promote it. The entry of SG1 pineapples into Peninsular Malaysia will open doors for the country's pineapple industry to reach greater heights. Thanks.

By,

M Anem,

Senior Agronomist Expert,

Melaka,

Malaysia.

(Febuary 2026).

TEAK PLANTATION IN MALAYSIA

TEAK PLANTATIONS in Malaysia in which most of the teak plantations (2,852 ha) can be found in the northern states of Peninsular Malaysia, especially in Kedah and Perlis. Perlis and being the northern-most state of Peninsular Malaysia located bordering Thailand. This plantation has a similar climate to southern Thailand with a distinct dry period of three months from December to February. Teak plantation (Tectona grandis)  were first introduced in the early 1900s for high-quality timber production. Although not native the report stated it is cultivated for furniture and construction due to its durability and with significant areas also established in Sabah (approx. 6,930 ha by 2006) that have been planted by private owners and the villages. Most of the teak seeds for these plantations were obtained from the teak seed production area located in the Forest Research Institute of Malaysia (FRIM) field station in state of Perlis and from the Forestry Department, Kedah. Teak research in Malaysia was started in the early 1950s by FRIM. This was the result of extensive teak planting in the state of Perlis and Kedah. The main areas of research at the time were nursery techniques, silviculture and management. In the 1980s, a teak improvement programme was started with the establishment of seed stands, plus tree selection (120 plus trees), source bush and clonal seed orchards (1 ha). With regard to silviculture management, techniques have been established and used in planting guidelines, such as: a spacing of 5 m × 4 m; the first commercial thinning at the eighth year; and the final harvesting at the fifteenth year with dbh of 30 cm. On wood product research, the timber has been tested and samples of teak furniture were produced. Malaysia is located north of the equator within latitudes of 1-7° North and longitudes of 100-119° East. The total land area is approximately 32.9 million ha, which includes 13.1 million ha in Peninsular Malaysia, 7.4 million ha in Sabah, and 12.4 million ha in Sarawak. Peninsular Malaysia is 720 km from Sabah and Sarawak, separated by the South China Sea. The country has a coastline of almost 4,830 km. The total forested area in Malaysia is estimated to be 19.05 million ha (including 0.17 million ha of plantation forests), of which 5.89 million ha is in Peninsular Malaysia, 4.50 million ha in Sabah, and 8.66 million ha in Sarawak. Teak is an exotic species to Malaysia and was first introduced from Burma to Peninsular Malaysia in 1915 in Pulau Langkawi, Kedah. Subsequently, teak seeds from India, Thailand and Laos were introduced. In recent years, in addition to the government’s teak plantations, a number of semi-government agencies, private companies and small holders are expressing a very keen interest to plant teak. For me an encouraging feature in teak planting in Malaysia is the involvement of the private sector and small holders. FRIM is promoting a “Teak Planting Adoption Scheme”, under which FRIM will provide planting materials at a nominal cost and free technical advice to farmers who have less then 4 ha of land. The most remarkable concept of planting teak under this scheme is to reduce the rotation period of teak plantations to 15 years with commercial thinning at the eighth year. It is expected that another 5,000 ha of teak plantations will be established in the next five years during 1996-2000. Malaysia hopes that there will be an active exchange of teak research materials and technologies of teak planting and management that could benefit the participating countries. This article in "Anim Agriculture Technology" blog I share an information about the teak industry in Malaysia.

Reported that '200,000 teak trees dot NSE thanks to 1997 initiative' when PLUS Malaysia Bhd's green initiative of planting almost half a million teak trees along the North-South Expressway (NSE) back in 1997 appears to be bearing fruit. And now, 22 years later, some 200,000 teak trees dot the length of the highway. Between 1997 and 1999, the highway concessionaire planted hundreds of thousands of trees along NSE, especially in the southern part of the peninsula. The company said, was part of its special three-year CSR Greening Project in which teak trees were chosen because of their environmental benefits of producing and releasing more oxygen into the environment (See photo above). Each teak tree, the spokesman said, cost about RM200 to plant but in the interest of public safety, about 10 per cent of the teak trees had since been removed from the highway alignment, which also cost the company. Felling and cutting a teak tree activity costs about RM2,000. The cost excludes transportation and traffic management plan costs. Parts of the felled trees were sold off adding that generally, only teak trees with a diameter of 300mm and above had commercial value. Reported that a metric tonne of teak trees can reach up to RM350 where one metric tonne is about seven teak trees. PLUS said it had no plans to replant them as there were enough teak trees greening its highways. The concessionaire, however, had moved ahead to empower its eco-friendly initiatives. PLUS have a five-year Green Road Map that encompasses the implementation of solar photovoltaic (solar PV) panels and solar-powered charging stations at selected rest areas, to name a few.  PLUS Malaysia Bhd’s green initiative of planting almost half a million teak trees along the North-South Expressway (NSE) back in 1997 appears to be bearing fruit. Reported that in December last year, the PLUS Green Road Map led to the launch of the country's first solar-powered electric vehicle charging station at the Ayer Keroh overhead bridge restaurant (southbound). The road map also involved the transformation of the Machap (northbound) rest and recreation area into the first R&R in Malaysia to use photovoltaic solar system in April this year. PLUS managing director said over the next five years, the company aimed to introduce solar PV panels in other rest areas, such as the Sungai Buloh overhead bridge restaurant, Ayer Keroh overhead bridge restaurant, Dengkil R&R (north and southbound), Gurun R&R (north and southbound), Gunung Semanggol R&R (southbound), Tapah R&R (north and southbound) and Ayer Keroh R&R (northbound). The PLUS headquarters, Persada PLUS, last month bagged the One Diamond award from the Malaysia Sustainable Energy Development Authority's 2018 Low Carbon Buildings Assessment. PLUS is the first highway concessionaire in the country to receive the award. They described it as another milestone for PLUS in its efforts to optimise the use of green technology in preserving the environment for the firm's staff and the surrounding communities.

The report 'Perlis teak initiative blossoms' in which teak trees lining the sides of the trunk roads in Perlis are a source of pride for residents of the state and have also become a tourist attraction. In Perlis any traveller making his way to Perlis on the old trunk roads will find himself entering the amazing world of Malaysia's unique and diverse flora. As one exits the small enclave of Kodiang, Kedah and makes one's way up to Perlis, a hidden tropical gem like no other that entices the senses and leaves you breathless in wondrous delight can be seen. There are lines and lines of trees, towering majestically in full glory, on the right and left of the trunk roads. From afar it looks like a long archway into a magical Elven palace straight from pages of J.R.R. Tolkien's popular books, tucked deep in the enchanted woods and hidden from mortal sight and such glorious beauty brings to mind the words of poet Joyce Kilmer 'A tree looks at God all day, And lifts her leafy arms to pray' as a poems are made by fools like me, but only God can make a tree'. Many travellers who appreciate nature would stop their cars by the side of the road to admire the verdant view. The trees lining the roads in Perlis are one of the most sought- after species called "jati" or teak. Teak, the tall deciduous tree (Tectona grandis) from the family of Verbenaceae (verbana family), is native to India and Malaysia and is now widely cultivated in many tropical areas.  Teakwood is durable and can be worked on easily, relatively speaking. It is said that good teakwood pieces that are over 1,000 years old are sought after for their high value. Products made of teakwood are regarded as superior, to many other wood products.

Teakwood is usually made into furniture, flooring, and for general construction work and sold as premium price (See photo above) compared to many other types of wood in which teakwood is also highly prized. But what is the reason behind its popularity and high value?. According to Perlis Forestry Department Director AG Shafie AG Ahmadni said the answer lies in the natural oils and rubber found within the teak. There is an abundance of natural oils and rubber locked in the tight grain of the wood where all woods contained oils that protect the tree. Teak, however, can retain these oils and its rubber even after being felled and processed. Because of this, teak has greater natural weather-resistant properties than any other type of wood. The oils and rubber protect the heart of the wood from invaders like fungi and parasites. This is why teak is highly sought-after where teak was first planted in Perlis in 1953 at Mata Ayer forest reserve. Regarded as the pride of Perlis, teak was planted in huge numbers at tree farms across the state before being introduced to more open areas. In the 1990s, the state decided to plant teaks along many of its roads. There are several factors why teak was chosen for this project. The number one reason was to provide shade for drivers. As the northern region can be a hot zone, teak trees provide wonderful natural shade. By mass planting teaks on the roads and in our towns, we can also bring down the temperatures and cool down the surrounding areas. The state's wide open fields also made it prone to crosswinds that could be dangerous to motorists. By planting teak trees along the road, he said the impact of such weather phenomenon could be minimised. The teak trees lining the road also acts as a green wall from crosswinds, providing safety to vehicles on our roads. The teak trees lining the roads also acted as a green belt connecting different enclaves in the state. These teaks absorb all the harmful carbons from the lorries and heavy vehicles using our roads and release oxygen into the air and this goes a long way to keeping the people of Perlis healthy and the teak trees had also become a tourist attraction. The trees are a unique feature to the state and attract nature lovers and visitors who appreciate the greenery. They have contributed positively to tourism in the state and reported that teak trees that have reached a certain maturity also generate income and fuel the state's economy. The mature teak trees were monitored regularly to ensure they did not endanger motorists, especially in severe weather conditions. Old trees can easily uproot and fall on the road in heavy storms and strong weather conditions. This is one of the problems of maintaining teak trees along the road. The department monitors the development of the trees and records when they were planted. Once a tree reaches a certain age, the department will give out tenders to have the trees cut. The cutting and selling of mature teak trees, the department prevented incidents resulting from fallen trees and generated income for the state. One teak tree that we plant costs about RM30 and the cost of cutting and selling a mature tree by tender is roughly about RM125. Perlis previously earned RM400,000 after taxes from the cutting, processing and selling of 3,200 teak trees. Thanks...

By,

M Anem,

Senior Agronomist,

Melaka,

Malaysia.

(Febuary 2026).