July 30, 2026 | malay mail |
Jelebu in Negeri Sembilan, traditionally known for durian production, is emerging as a promising area for premium pomelo cultivation. The Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (Mardi) is promoting the fruit as a high-value alternative crop that could diversify farmer incomes and reduce dependence on durian.
At Mardi’s eight-hectare site in Simpang Durian, more than 600 pomelo trees produce around 12,000–13,000 fruits per harvest cycle. Pomelos offer advantages including relatively low maintenance, limited pest problems, year-round production, and strong market demand. Pruning techniques can also help growers schedule harvests for periods of higher demand.
Mardi is developing the locally bred Melomas variety, characterized by sweeter and juicier flesh for the fresh market. More than 200 Melomas trees are expected to be harvested in August.
Although pomelo trees require three to four years before bearing fruit and reach peak productivity after five to seven years, their manageable production requirements and market potential make them attractive for commercial farming. Mardi is supporting expansion by providing quality seedlings, technical training, and advisory services to new growers, aiming to establish pomelo as another important agricultural product for Jelebu.
