THE Taichung ponkan is back in Malaysia, with the sweet, juicy mandarin orange set to be a highlight for Chinese New Year.
Originating from Taichung, Taiwan, ponkan is prized for its sweet, juicy flesh and golden- orange peel, long regarded as a festive staple during the Lunar New Year.
This year’s event once again partners with Malaysian bakery chain RT Pastry to unveil a limited-edition Ponkan cheesecake, blending Taiwanese citrus with local baking artistry.
The collaboration offers a fresh, modern way to enjoy Taichung ponkan, according to a press release.
Organised by Shigang District Farmers’ Association of Taichung City, with support from Taiwan’s Agriculture Ministry and Agriculture Bureau of Taichung City Government, the initiative highlights the fruit’s enduring appeal across South-East Asia.
Taichung ponkan is known for its balanced sweet, tangy flavour and high nutritional value, making it popular in Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei.
The first shipment of around 15 tonnes has already been delivered to Malaysia.
According to Agriculture Bureau of Taichung City Government, the region’s abundant rainfall, favourable climate and fertile soil provided ideal conditions for citrus cultivation.
Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Malaysia economic division director James Chang noted that despite weather challenges last year, including low temperatures and typhoons, Taichung ponkan maintained stable quality and supply.
He added that demand in Malaysia during the festive period often exceeded supply, reflecting strong consumer confidence.
The oranges are available nationwide at Aeon, Star Grocer and Whole Foods supermarkets. They are brought in by supplier and importer Khaishen Trading Sdn Bhd.
The promotion launch in Kuala Lumpur was attended by representatives from Taiwan and Malaysia, including Sylvia Kao of Taiwan Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur, Liao Ting-Chien and Fu Yu Chin of Shigang District Farmers’ Association and Tsai Hsin Tien of Taiwan Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Malaysia.
Also present were Khaishen Trading chief executive officer Jeffrey Tan and chief financial officer Edmanda Chang, as well as RT Pastry CEO Lu Chun Neng and cake factory manager Low Song Hua.
