The kenaf plant or scientifically known as “hibiscus cannabinus” may be the next wonder crop for Malaysia.
To explore its full potential, a local company Kenaf Venture Global Sdn Bhd established PT Kenaf Fibre Global (PT KFG) to venture into Indonesia.
A memorandum of understanding (MOU) signing ceremony was held at the Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia in this respect.
Present was Jazman Shahar Abdollah, the group chief executive officer (CEO) of KVG and Rusmin Lawin, the managing director of PT KFG.
The ceremony was witnessed by Mr Bambang Suharto, Consul General Republic of Indonesia (Penang).
Also present was Azman Ahmad , President Kenaf Venture Group Sdn Bhd, Norizan Ahmad, director PT Marco Kenaf.
Jazman added that the kenaf industry is valued at US 100 million and will offer job opportunities in its production and manufacturing processes. It is sustainable and inline with the green agenda to fight climate change.
“We are determined to make changes for a better future generation. We will operate on three levels, namely, upstream, midstream and downstream,” he added.
Meanwhile, Rusmin added that with climate change on the horizon, we need industries which can enhance downstream industries.
“As such, the kenaf industry with its many uses can become the biggest production base in this region,” he added.
In the meantime, Mr Bambang said they welcomed this initiative as it will bring more jobs and uplift the livelihoods of people.
“I express my gratitude for this collaboration as it will be a stepping stone for many. People’s lives will be improved and technological advancement from plantation to upstream manufacturing can be attained.
“This collaboration will also bring prosperity to both nations and serve the global agenda on sustainability, Indonesia has a vast land mass for agriculture and we look forward to this venture,” he added.
Presently KFG operates a 100 hectare plantation in Chuping, Perlis. The kenaf plant takes only three months to mature and ready for harvesting. The plant’s leaves, stem, flower and seeds can all be used in the processing of various products.
Among the main uses for kenaf are for insulation purposes in the automotive industry, furniture, housing (thermal insulation), cosmetics, kenaf oils, animal feed and more.
