KOTA KINABALU: Farmers are encouraged to take up cocoa planting and expand the 3,000ha of land already under cultivation in Sabah, in light of growing global demand.
Malaysia’s cocoa exports reached a record RM15.06bil last year, three times higher than in 2023, reflecting rising international appetite for its cocoa-based goods.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said Sabah contributed significantly to this success, accounting for over 60% of the country’s total output.
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“Around 3,000 cocoa farmers in Ranau, Tenom, Kota Marudu, Keningau and Kuamut have benefitted from this thriving industry," he said at the Cocoa Gala Dinner in conjunction with the Malaysian International Cocoa Fair 2025 (MICF 2025) here on Monday (May 26).
His speech was read by Deputy Chief Minister and state Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Minister Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan.
MICF 2025 was described as a milestone for Sabah, underscoring the state's vital role in Malaysia’s cocoa industry.
The Malaysian Cocoa Board was also praised for its efforts in driving the sector’s growth.
Hajiji hoped that MICF 2025 would generate lasting benefits, from new partnerships and investments to enhanced global awareness of Sabah, not only as Malaysia’s leading cocoa-producing state, but also as a destination for business, tourism and culture.
