Grapes thriving in Gopeng

The Kyoho grapes are said to be as sweet as berries.

An agrotourism farm in Gopeng, Perak, has successfully cultivated Japanese premium Kyoho grapes that usually grow in four-season countries.

Agrotech Profarm Gopeng’s marketing officer Wong Kok Wai said the farm management began researching and developing Kyoho grape cultivation methods in 2019.

Their aim was to grow the grapes on nearly 2ha of land.

“With proper care and fertiliser, the first grape seedlings bore fruit with the sweetness matching the ones found in Japan.

“We have since expanded cultivation,” he told Bernama in an interview at the farm that also produces fertiliser.

Wong explained that Kyoho grapes were suitable despite Malaysia’s high temperature.

However, he revealed it must be grown under a covered area with appropriate fertiliser.

With care, the grapes can yield results within a year.

The Kyoho variety has a black shade, tender texture and a sweetness similar to that of berries.

The grapes are sold at RM70 per kg at the farm.

Visitors can pick the grapes and enjoy them fresh from the vine.

Wong shared that a grapevine could bear fruit for up to 100 years.

He also explained that with the farm’s cultivation methods, they were capable of producing the fruit all-year round.

“On any given day, we can harvest between 10kg and 20kg which are sold directly to visitors,” he said.

Wong said the farm was also the only place in the country cultivating Taiwanese guava.

It also offers a variety of organic vegetables, including mustard greens.

Visitors can also enjoy a petting zoo, catch-and-release fish pond and a range of animals such as camels.

The farm also provides accommodation for those looking to extend their stay.

The entrance fee of RM3 per person allows guests to purchase fresh produce during their visit.

Spanning nearly 20ha, the farm is located in Kampung Pintu Padang, about 20 minutes or 8km from Gopeng town.