A MAJOR issue raised by Jeffrey was the action of the Brazilian government demanding exclusive rights to the production and export of guarana seeds from the country.
Brazil has blocked the export of guarana seeds to other countries, including Malaysia. However, he stressed that Malaysia already has its own source of seeds, and the Malaysian government will not bow to that demand.
“Although Brazil claims their exclusive rights to guarana, Malaysia now has high-quality local seeds. We will also continue to expand guarana cultivation to meet domestic and export demand,” said Jeffrey.
He also expected that the guarana industry in Malaysia would grow rapidly in the coming years. “This industry is still new, but the potential to produce it as a commercial product such as guarana coffee and related products is huge.
“I believe it will provide new job opportunities and sources of income, especially for the rural community,” he added.
He also encouraged the local community to participate in the effort to develop this industry, by giving full support to those interested in growing guarana on their land.
In another development, Jeffrey also commented on the latest circular from the central government announcing the list of prohibited crops in Malaysia. He said that although there are many types of trees listed, guarana is not included in the list.
“I have read the circular, and I am happy that guarana is not listed as a prohibited crop. This proves that we can continue to grow guarana in this country without any restrictions,” he said.
The ceremony was also attended by several important figures including Datuk Lawrence Gimbang, Chairman of the guarana Organiser, Datuk Edward Linggu, Member of the Senate, as well as representatives from the guarana information bureaus in the districts of Ranau, Keningau, Lawas, Sook and Kota Belud.
Jeffrey calling on all parties to work together to develop the guarana industry. “We need cooperation from various parties, whether farmers, entrepreneurs, or the government, to ensure that the industry is growing well and benefits the country,” he said.
This newly developing guarana industry not only offers business opportunities but also opens up space for research and development of new products, as well as strengthening Malaysia’s position as a competitive guarana producer in the global market.
