FRIM, Perlis Forestry Partner To Boost Economic Value Of Teak

PADANG BESAR, July 27 (Bernama) -- The Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM) and the Perlis State Forestry Department (JPNPs) have strengthened their collaboration to boost the value of Perlis teak, aiming to support community economic development through downstream product creation.

FRIM director-general Datuk Dr Ismail Parlan said these downstream products, derived from teak plantations, contribute directly to environmental sustainability efforts, in line with the designation of FRIM’s Mata Ayer Research Station (SPF) as a biological site within the Perlis Geopark.

“FRIM remains committed to promoting Perlis teak locally and internationally. Under this partnership, we have organised various programmes involving state agencies, associations, and local entrepreneurs to unlock the economic value of teak plantations,” he said.

He was speaking at the launch of the ‘Pasar Geowarisan Se-Jati 2025’ at Teak Eco Park, SPF Mata Ayer, officiated by the Raja of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Jamalullail here today.

Ismail said since the station's establishment in 1974, it has focused on research and development (R&D) of forest plantations, especially teak.

“In support of state efforts to promote ecotourism, FRIM and JPNPs rebranded the station as Teak Eco Park, now serving as a teak reference centre and eco-attraction in Perlis,” he said. 

He said FRIM continues to enhance the branding of teak-based products by building a strong market reputation.

Initiatives like the ‘Royal Perlis Jati Craft’ and the push for Geographical Indication (GI) status are expected to increase the value and marketability of Perlis teak products, he added.

“The Pasar Geowarisan Se-Jati 2025 is part of this ongoing effort and has been included in the 2025 State Tourism Calendar.

“The programme aims to raise awareness and support among stakeholders in realising the potential of teak-based crafts and ecotourism,” he said.

-- BERNAMA