Retired Sarawak teacher grows vanilla into a rewarding retirement venture

Malaysia’s warm and humid climate provides ideal conditions for growing vanilla, allowing the orchid to thrive year-round. Photo: Yayasan Hasanah

Three years ago when Luke Piee was 65, he took a bold step into vanilla farming. The venture has since proven to be a lucrative business for the retired teacher from Bau, Sarawak.

The 68-year-old has since sold more than 500 vanilla cuttings, earning over RM11,000 in sales.