Kuala lumpur: The Penang state government, in collaboration with the Federal Government, has allocated RM14.533 million this year to bolster the state's agriculture and agrofood sector. This initiative aims to enhance the competitiveness of its premium durian industry, a significant contributor to the state's agricultural economy.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow stated that the allocation includes RM6.37 million from the State Development Allocation, RM2.23 million in federal agricultural development funding, and an additional RM5.933 million through the National Agrofood Empowerment Programme (PPAN) under the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security. In 2025, the fruit subsector recorded a production of 30,947 tonnes, valued at RM309.47 million, marking it as the largest contributor to the state's crop production value. This achievement underscores the fruit sector's role as a key driver of Penang's agricultural economy.
Chow highlighted that Penang remains among Malaysia's top producers of premium durians, with production increasing from 17,910 tonnes to 18,870 tonnes in 2025. The area dedicated to productive durian cultivation in the state is expected to expand to 2,220 hectares this year, fueled by ongoing efforts to strengthen the industry. The districts of South West, Seberang Perai Tengah (SPT), and Seberang Perai Selatan (SPS) continue to be the main durian production areas, known for their high-quality premium clones that enjoy strong demand both locally and internationally.
Chow emphasized that the Durian Festival and Road to MAHA 2026 programs are critical initiatives to promote Penang's durian industry and agrofood sector. These programs serve as a platform to prepare for the Malaysia Agriculture, Horticulture and Agrotourism Exhibition (MAHA) 2026. The festival also aims to strengthen Penang's durian brand, expand markets for local agricultural products, and increase the income of farmers and entrepreneurs.
The three-day festival, which commenced on Friday at the grounds of Masjid Al-Rasyidin, features a range of activities including Best Durian Variety and Best Kampung Durian 2026 competitions, exhibitions of durian-based product innovations, agricultural technology showcases, and sales of local agro products. Chow expressed confidence that coordinated efforts between the government, agencies, and industry players will continue to position Penang as a leader in the agrofood sector and a premier durian producer in the country.