.jpg)
Why Malaysians Should Grow Buah Krystal (Matoa) in Their Backyards
By Mihar Dias (C) Copyright June 2024
In the lush, tropical landscape of Malaysia, the opportunity to cultivate a unique and lucrative fruit crop has presented itself with promising potential.
The buah krystal, the matoa fruit, or Pometia pinnata, is quickly becoming a favourite among smallholders and backyard gardeners alike.
Recently, retired Universiti Utara Malaysia professor, Prof Aziz Romli, shared his success story of growing matoa in his own backyard in Kedah. His experience highlights the numerous benefits and economic opportunities that this fruit can offer.
Economic Benefits
One of the most compelling reasons to grow matoa is the promise of significant financial returns. According to Prof Aziz, matoa fruits can fetch prices between RM30 to RM38 per kilogram, rivalling the lucrative durian market.
With high demand and resilient trees, the potential for income generation is substantial. Aziz's six matoa trees have become a steady source of income, proving that even a small-scale operation can yield impressive profits.
Low Maintenance and High Yield
Matoa trees are remarkably easy to cultivate and maintain. They are resilient to diseases and require minimal attention compared to other fruit trees. Aziz noted that his trees began flowering at three years old and have consistently produced two harvests annually. By the age of seven, the yield increases significantly, making matoa a reliable and long-term investment for backyard gardeners.
Unique and Desirable Fruit
The matoa fruit, often referred to as 'buah krystal,' offers a unique flavour profile that combines the tastes of lychee, rambutan, and durian. This exotic blend makes it highly desirable among fruit enthusiasts. The high demand for matoa ensures that the fruits are often booked even before they ripen, guaranteeing a market for the produce.
Community and Environmental Impact
Encouraging the cultivation of matoa can also have positive community and environmental impacts. Villagers and smallholders can supplement their income, enhancing their economic stability. Additionally, growing fruit trees contributes to biodiversity and environmental sustainability. Unlike monoculture plantations, a diverse mix of fruit trees can support local ecosystems and promote healthier soil.
A Call to Action
Prof Aziz's story is a testament to the untapped potential of matoa cultivation in Malaysia. His advocacy for planting these trees is not just about personal gain but about sharing a viable economic opportunity with fellow Malaysians. Whether for personal consumption or commercial purposes, growing matoa can bring about substantial benefits.
In conclusion, the matoa tree stands as a beacon of potential in Malaysia's agricultural landscape. Its ease of cultivation, economic promise, and unique fruit make it an ideal candidate for backyard gardening and small-scale farming.
As Prof Aziz aptly put it, the trees "are easy to tend to and are resilient to disease," making them a low-risk, high-reward addition to any garden.
Malaysians should seize this opportunity to diversify their crops and enjoy the 'fruits of their labour' in the most literal sense.
Mihar Dias is a content creator under the Newswav Creator programme, where you get to express yourself, be a citizen journalist, and at the same time monetize your content & reach millions of users on Newswav. Log in to creator.newswav.com and become a Newswav Creator now!
The User Content (as defined on Newswav Terms of Use) above including the views expressed and media (pictures, videos, citations etc) were submitted & posted by the author. Newswav is solely an aggregation platform that hosts the User Content. If you have any questions about the content, copyright or other issues of the work, please contact Newswav.