Fahmi (right) showing a poster of the tagging system for durians using QR codes. — ZHAFARAN NASIB/The Star
Govt aid prioritised for those onboard initiative to protect Penang brand
PENANG has rolled out its ‘Track and Trace” smart monitoring system for durian to ensure the authenticity of the state’s prized fruit.
The system was launched ahead of the Penang Durian and Fruit Festival, to be held from June 23 to July 20, at Persiaran Queensbay in Bayan Lepas.
State agrotechnology, food security and cooperative development committee chairman Fahmi Zainol said some 60 farmers had committed to use the tagging system, launched on June 1, while 20 large-scale farm operators had already registered.
“Farmers must apply for the tagging themselves and provide valid land ownership documents. Applications through intermediaries will not be accepted,” he said at a press conference in Komtar.
Fahmi urged durian farmers to register for the smart monitoring system to prevent durians from other areas being labelled as being from Penang.
Through the system, each durian from Penang would be tagged with a QR code.
Consumers just need to scan to verify whether the durian is truly from Penang or not.
Fahmi said the initiative, under the state Agriculture Department, was developed in collaboration with Mimos Bhd.
“The tracking system was previously used in conjunction with the (Covid-19) vaccination programme,” he said.
He added that the government had proposed making the use of a durian-tagging system mandatory for farmers.
Those who register will be prioritised for government aid, promotional efforts, and participation in official programmes.
Registration can be done through the Agriculture Department, Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (Fama) or the state executive councillor’s office.
Fahmi said the tagging system was required for those wishing to participate in the upcoming Durian and Fruit Festival, to ensure the quality and authenticity of the durian sold.
He said the system would benefit consumers and farmers, offering price transparency.
It would also enhance the farmers’ reputation and export potential, particularly to China.
“The month-long festival aims to promote local fruits, especially Penang’s famous durian, while supporting farmers and strengthening the state’s agricultural sector through tourism and marketing initiatives,” he said.
The event is a joint effort by his office, the state Agriculture Department and Fama.
Fahmi said the festival aimed to elevate the status of local fruits by showcasing the uniqueness and quality of the renowned durian and other tropical produce.
He said the event would serve as a direct marketing platform to help small-scale farmers increase their sales and income through direct engagement with consumers.
The festival is part of the state’s broader strategy to promote agrotourism, positioning Penang as a premier destination for both domestic and international visitors seeking agricultural experiences.
He said the initiative also sought to strengthen the cooperative economy by enhancing the participation of cooperatives in agriculture and the marketing of local produce.
“We hope this year’s Penang Durian and Fruit Festival will provide added value in several key areas.
“The event offers a platform for local entrepreneurs to promote fruit-based products to a broader market, enhancing visibility and sales potential,” he said, adding that the festival was expected to raise public awareness of the importance of healthy eating, by encouraging the consumption of local fruits.
Fahmi also said the event could serve as a catalyst for new business networking opportunities among entrepreneurs and cooperatives in the agriculture sector.
It was earlier reported that Penang would roll out a Track-and-Trace system to allow comprehensive monitoring of locally grown durian, particularly from Balik Pulau, in conjunction with the upcoming fruit season.
The system aims to address growers’ complaints regarding fraudulent sales and the misrepresentation of Penang durian.
The project was a collaboration between the Penang tourism and creative economy committee, Fama, state Agriculture Department, Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services, and the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry in Penang.
