MARDI Committed To Expanding Shallot Cultivation In Sabah

KOTA KINABALU, Oct 18 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI) remains committed to guiding local farmers to practice modern agricultural techniques to expand shallot cultivation in Sabah.

In a statement today, MARDI said farmers who apply modern cultivation methods, use quality seeds, and optimise fertiliser and irrigation systems can earn up to RM35,000 per season.

According to its director-general, Datuk Dr Mohamad Zabawi Abd Ghani, the institute is always ready to collaborate with stakeholders to organise courses and practical training for farmers, particularly in Sabah, to introduce them to more efficient and competitive modern technologies.

“This programme aims to encourage farmers to venture into shallot cultivation and help increase their income.

“On just one acre, shallot cultivation can yield five to six tonnes, which, at current market prices, can generate up to RM35,000 per season within approximately 90 days,” he said.

In a course on shallot cultivation, opened by Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup in Sook today, more than 200 participants were introduced to various varieties of onions as well as conventional onion cultivation methods and fertigation systems.

The course, which was held in conjunction with the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM) Mini Carnival Programme, is hoped to improve the knowledge and technical skills of local farmers to expand shallot cultivation in line with the government's aspiration to reduce dependence on onion imports.

-- BERNAMA