Keningau, Sabah – TFNet CEO, Mr. Muhamed Salim bin Mohd Ali, was invited to deliver a presentation on 9 June 2026 to members of the Sabah Durian and Tropical Fruit Planters Association/Making Sabah Durian Amazing (MaSDa) and a delegation from the Chinese Avocado Association in Keningau, Sabah. The session focused on the growing potential of tropical fruits, particularly avocado, as an emerging high-value crop in Sabah.
The programme, organised by MaSDa, led by its Chairman, Mr. Duane Evans, brought together industry stakeholders, researchers, government agencies, and private sector representatives to discuss the latest developments in avocado cultivation. Participants were also exposed to various avocado production technologies, cultivation techniques, and industry best practices presented by invited experts and companies.
During his presentation, the TFNet CEO highlighted the importance of international collaboration, knowledge sharing, and innovation in strengthening the tropical fruit sector. He also announced TFNet’s plan to collaborate with MaSDa and the Sabah Department of Agriculture to organise an International Avocado Forum in Sabah in early October 2026. The forum is expected to bring together local and international experts, industry players, researchers, and policymakers to explore opportunities for developing a sustainable and competitive avocado industry in the region.
Sabah’s avocado industry has experienced significant growth in recent years. The planted area has expanded from just 49 hectares in 2018 to approximately 318 hectares today. While Keningau remains the main production area, avocado cultivation is also expanding into other districts, including Tenom, Sandakan, and Tawau.
Despite the increasing local production, demand for avocados in Malaysia continues to rise. Sabah and Malaysia still rely on imports to meet consumer demand, with avocado imports increasing from 3.35 tonnes in 2019 to 18.3 tonnes in 2021, reflecting growing consumer interest in the fruit due to its nutritional and health benefits.
The event was also attended by the honorable Datuk Jamawi Jaafar, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industries, Sabah, who reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting the development of Sabah’s agriculture sector, including emerging crops such as avocado.
The programme provided a valuable platform for industry stakeholders to exchange knowledge, strengthen partnerships, and identify new opportunities to advance Sabah’s avocado industry as a key contributor to the state’s agricultural growth and food security agenda.
