Melaka: The Melaka government is extending opportunities to individuals interested in agriculture to utilize idle government land for cultivating pineapples or other crops. This initiative is facilitated through applications under the Temporary Occupation Licence (TOL) Scheme.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, State Rural Development, Agriculture and Food Security Committee chairman Datuk Dr. Muhamad Akmal Saleh explained that the initiative aims to boost the local economy and enhance Melaka's agricultural output. The scheme offers low rental rates for a period of three years. Residents aware of unused state land are encouraged to inform the Department of Agriculture or the Malaysian Pineapple Industry Board (LPNM) so that the land can be utilized productively.

Dr. Akmal made these remarks while addressing reporters after inaugurating the Melaka Pineapple Technology Transfer and Crop Management Programme, an event attended by LPNM director-general Mohd Khairuzamri M Salleh at Bukit Katil. He emphasized that this effort aligns with the significant growth of the pineapple cultivation industry in Melaka, which has seen a 143 percent increase over the past five years, positioning the state as a leader in agricultural growth in the country.

The chairman further highlighted the state's commitment, supported by the federal government, to developing the pineapple industry as a viable sector. He noted that Melaka is among the pioneering states implementing the 'Plant Once, Harvest Thrice' concept at the Jasin Correctional Centre, serving as a model for other states to enhance agricultural yields and value-added processes. Currently, Melaka's pineapple planting area spans 125.70 hectares.

Additionally, LPNM has received a RM300,000 allocation under the Food Security Strengthening Programme 2025: Optimizing Land Use, in collaboration with the Melaka state government.