Big Push for Sabah’s Cocoa Farmers

30 September 2025

TENOM: Sabah’s interior has contributed tremendously to cocoa production, with Tenom alone contributing nearly half of the state’s total cocoa output, according to the Ministry of Plantation and Commodities.

Between January and August this year, Sabah accounted for 118 metric tonnes, or 73 per cent, of Malaysia’s cocoa bean production. Of this, Tenom contributed an estimated 55 metric tonnes, representing 47 per cent of the state’s production, solidifying its position as the country’s leading cocoa-producing region.

Speaking at the launch of the Post-Harvest and Dry Cocoa Bean Grading Course in Kemabong, Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Chan Foong Hin said the Malaysian Cocoa Board (LKM) remained committed to strengthening the industry through targeted development programmes.

“In line with rising demand and high cocoa prices, LKM is dedicated to supporting farmers in boosting production,” he said, noting that the average price of dry cocoa beans surged by 141 per cent in 2024 to RM24,274 per metric tonne, compared with RM10,073 the previous year.

Among the initiatives highlighted was the Cocoa Farm Rehabilitation Programme (2024–2026), covering 1,344 hectares across Sabah and involving 2,084 farmers, with a government allocation of RM5 million. Farmers will receive incentives worth RM3,500 to RM4,000 per hectare, including agricultural inputs and equipment.

"In Kemabong alone, 118 farmers managing 103 hectares of cocoa land will benefit from the programme. Participants of the launch event also received fertilisers, insecticides, fungicides and 10 cocoa seedlings each, under the Cocoa Planting Incentive Programme."

The ministry is further promoting large-scale cocoa cultivation among estate operators through the Cocoa Planting Promotion Programme (2025–2030), with RM550,000 allocated annually, Chan stated.

This initiative aims to expand cultivation by 2,750 hectares nationwide over five years.

“Cocoa is a high-potential commodity that supports the sustainability of our agricultural sector. These programmes will not only boost production but also enhance farmer incomes while ensuring a resilient cocoa industry,” the Minister said.

He congratulated Malaysia Cocoa Board (LKM) for its ongoing efforts, particularly in Tenom, and officially launched the Post-Harvest and Dry Cocoa Bean Grading Course for the Kemabong Zone.