TAMBUNAN: Sabah is on the verge of an economic revolution that could lift thousands out of poverty with the introduction of guarana as the State’s next “new gold” crop, a venture expected to multiply rural incomes many times over.
Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (Star) President Datuk Seri Jeffrey Kitingan described the move as a strategic step towards economic independence for Sabahans when launching the guarana purchase and seed distribution programme in Kota Marudu on Wednesday.
According to Cupana Trading (M) Sdn Bhd Chief Operating Officer Dato Paduka Syed Isa Syed Alwi, guarana carries an impressive market value of up to RM60,000 per tonne, far exceeding palm oil’s RM700 to RM800 per tonne.
In a bold effort to empower the B40 community, the Cupana Group of Companies is offering five guarana plants free to each household, capable of producing up to 200 kilograms worth RM12,000 after just two years of cultivation.
The initiative is supported by Koperasi Star Sabah, which distributed 1,000 seedlings in the initial phase.
“We are optimistic that within five years, Sabah will emerge as the country’s leading guarana producer,” Jeffrey said, linking the effort to Sabah’s constitutional claim of 40 percent revenue entitlement while encouraging the people to embrace guarana cultivation as an immediate alternative income source.
Beyond its lucrative potential, participants will receive comprehensive training and access to government-recognised diploma and degree programmes, enabling them to qualify as certified trainers in guarana cultivation.
Once an unfamiliar crop, guarana is now being hailed as a symbol of rural transformation and economic self-reliance, offering new hope to smallholders and families across Sabah.
The launch event attracted about 500 participants.
