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THE introduction of guarana as Sabah’s next “new gold” crop is expected to multiply rural incomes and lift many in the state out of poverty.
Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (Star) President Datuk Seri Jeffrey Kitingan said planting guarana could generate steady income for Sabahans and empower the B40 community.
He expects Sabah to be a top guarana producer within the next five years.
He said this when launching the guarana purchase and seed distribution programme in Kota Marudu recently.
Jeffrey urged Sabahans to embrace the cultivation of guarana as an immediate alternative source of income.
Guarana is best known for the seeds from its beans, which are about the size of a coffee bean.
As a dietary supplement or herb, guarana seed is an effective stimulant, containing about twice the concentration of caffeine found in coffee beans and is also widely used in energy drinks.
It can fetch an impressive market value of up to RM60,000 per tonne.
Comparatively, palm oil is only around RM700 to RM800 per tonne.
Jeffery said the initiative is supported by Kopetasi Star Sabah in collaboration with Cupana Group of Companies.
Cupana’s CEO Datuk Paduka Syed Isa Syed Alwi was also present.
Cupana 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.
Around 1,000 seedlings were distributed in the initial phase and the launch event attracted about 500 participants. – October 25, 2025
