15 February 2023, Miri - Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) through UPM CiRNeT, UPM UCTC and Putra Agricultural Centre, UPM Bintulu Campus, together with industry partners namely durian entrepreneur Musang King Raub, Mr. Alex Wong, and philanthropist from Miri, Dr. Ling Tung King have worked together to promote the Musang King durian plant in the focus communities in Miri and Mulu, Sarawak to improve their well-being. The Musang King durian has been recognized as one of the most popular types of durian in Malaysia and in the global market. This initiative aims to help local communities improve their skills and efficiency in cultivating and marketing durian.

Through this collaboration, UPM will provide expertise in the research and development of the Musang King durian plant and high-quality plant material for the local community to cultivate. Industry partners will also contribute their product development and advertising expertise to help promote Musang King durian to the global market.

This initiative is expected to help increase the income and standard of living of the focus communities in Miri and Mulu, Sarawak, while at the same time promoting environmental sustainability and increasing Malaysia's competitiveness in the global market. This can also help increase tourism to the attractive Miri and Mulu districts with their natural beauty and cultural richness.

According to Zaidi Tajuddin, UPM's Agriculture Officer, this collaboration is part of UPM's efforts to increase the use of knowledge and technology in supporting the country's socioeconomic development and involves all parties, including the university, industry, and the local community.

It is hoped that this initiative will bring long-term benefits for all parties involved, and increase awareness of the importance of environmental sustainability and the importance of a sustainable economy.

Date of Input: 20/02/2023 | Updated: 20/02/2023 | zaidi_tajuddin