Savour the Sweet, Embrace the Spice

Posted on July 5, 2024

(Note: This is a 3 min read)

Welcome, fellow adventurers, to a tropical paradise where the fields are ripe with treasures and the air is fragrant with the promise of exotic flavours! From vibrant fruit orchards and spice gardens, Malaysia’s agricultural landscape is as diverse as it is bountiful. Let’s take a journey through the verdant fields and discover the secrets of tropical agriculture in this captivating country. Today, we’re diving into the colourful world of Malaysian agriculture, where two stars shine brightest: the mystical dragon fruit and the fiery ginger root.

Dragon fruit, a vibrant and visually captivating tropical fruit from the cactus family, features bright pink or yellow skin with dragon-like scales. Native to Central America, it was introduced to Malaysia from Vietnam around 20 years ago and is locally known as “buah naga.” In Malaysia, it is grown in three varieties: white flesh, red flesh and yellow skin.

The juicy, sweet flesh of dragon fruit, rich in vitamins, antioxidants and fibre, offers numerous health benefits and is a versatile ingredient in both culinary and skincare applications. Its antioxidants enhance skincare, while its unique flavour and colour make it a popular choice for juices, spreads, sorbets, and ice creams, as well as dried slices or powder in recipes.

Ginger, locally known as “halia” in Malaysia, is a zesty, subtly sweet root used for over 5,000 years, originating in Southeast Asia. Ancient cultures prized ginger for treating nausea and arthritis. Today, ginger is globally cultivated, essential in both Eastern and Western cuisines, and renowned for its health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Widely used in ginger tea for colds and stomach issues, its aromatic qualities enhance many dishes, making ginger a versatile and cherished ingredient in culinary and wellness practices worldwide.

Domestically, dragon fruit is sold in supermarkets and other markets and can be made into products like jam and juice, with prices ranging from MYR 3.50–4.00 per kilogram at the farm to MYR 5.00–6.00 per kilogram in stores, and online sales also expanding. Despite challenges like disease outbreaks and limited research funding, the market potential is significant due to high demand and good economic returns, making investment in research and effective disease management crucial for realising this potential. In the global dragon fruit market Malaysia’s dragon fruit export market is also thriving, with key buyers including Singapore and Hong Kong. Globally, from 2024 to 2030, the dragon fruit market is projected to grow at a CAGR of approximately 4.5%, driven by a growing emphasis on health-conscious eating habits, which not only improves dietary health but also fosters food security by encouraging a wider range of nutritious food options, mitigating malnutrition risks, and supporting sustainable agriculture.

According to Nation Master, a global big data company; Malaysia’s ginger production has steadily increased since 2014, averaging a growth rate of 0.8% annually, and by 2019, the country ranked 16th globally with an output of 11,205 metric tons. Local demand for ginger remains high, making it a significant import commodity. Dr Salini Devi Rajendran, a Senior Lecturer at Taylor’s University, highlighted that ginger is among the top imported foods in Malaysia, underscoring its importance in the market. Meanwhile, the global ginger market, valued at USD 4.5 billion in 2023, is projected to grow at a CAGR of about 6.9%, driven by increasing consumer awareness of ginger’s health benefits and culinary versatility. This demand is further fueled by the thriving food and beverage sector and the rising popularity of ginger-based natural health products and dietary supplements, recognised for their “clean label” status in natural and functional products.

In the lush countryside, farmers work their magic, tending to dragon fruit vines and ginger roots with care and dedication. From sunrise to sunset, they nurture the land, ensuring that every fruit and root grows strong and healthy. Here comes fresh AgriVenture, Stargrower Sdn Bhd (“Stargrower”), an agriculture company with a 5-acre plot of farm located in Sepang, Selangor, specialising in the cultivation of dragon fruit and Bentong ginger. With a strong commitment to sustainable farming, the company employs sustainable agricultural practices to produce high-quality, nutritious produce.

Actual photos of Stargrower’s dragon fruit farm.

Stargrower prioritises environmental stewardship, ensuring its produce is both healthy and sustainably grown. By utilizing eco-friendly methods, the company aims to positively impact the environment and the community. Experience the magic of fresh, sustainably grown produce and become part of the company’s mission to make a positive impact on the environment and society. Let’s grow together with Stargrower! Check it out here https://app.ata-plus.com/deals/stargrower.