September 11, 2024 | Malay Mail |
The Maha 2024 Agriculture, Horticulture, and Agro-Tourism Exhibition, held from September 11-22 at MAEPS, showcases innovative uses of agricultural by-products, particularly pineapple waste. The Malaysian Pineapple Industry Board (MPIB) demonstrates how discarded pineapple leaves are repurposed into sustainable products like paper, thread, ties, and handbags. Pineapple leaf fibers are ideal for making thread but are currently blended with other materials like silk or cotton for fashion accessories. Exhibits include locally designed ties priced at RM300 and handbags ranging from RM250 to RM500.
Despite its potential, the pineapple by-product industry remains niche in Malaysia, with overseas markets showing more interest in sustainable products. MPIB highlights how 10kg of pineapple leaves can produce 100g of thread, encouraging entrepreneurs to explore this avenue for diversification. Events like Maha offer farmers, such as Md Suib Yatim, valuable insights into the latest agricultural innovations.
Globally, Costa Rica leads the pineapple export market, while Malaysia ranks 25th. MPIB hopes Maha 2024 will raise awareness about the broader potential of pineapple by-products beyond food, unlocking new business opportunities.