The sweet melons grown in Terengganu thrive in hot weather, with larger fruits produced during hotter temperatures. However, unpredictable weather patterns pose a challenge for farmers. To improve farm operations and future-proof the industry, technologies such as artificial intelligence are being adopted to gather useful data. Two female postgraduates, Mazaitul Akma Suhaimi and Norzilawati Fauzi, have been inspired by the potential of Terengganu melons to venture into the business. Mazaitul is the founder of Ayana Agrotech, which currently sells 70 percent of their produce in Kuala Lumpur and plans to expand to the Middle East, Hong Kong, and Singapore next year.
Despite the potential of Terengganu melons, the biggest challenge for new businesses in the industry is obtaining funds. The costly technique of fertigation, which supplies dissolved fertiliser to crops through an irrigation system, adds to the financial burden. Nonetheless, the excellent quality of the melons in terms of taste and texture allows for selling them at a good price. Proper marketing strategies are essential to introduce Terengganu melons to the entire Malaysian market. Mazaitul and Norzilawati are focused on growing their business and expanding their reach to new markets, emphasizing the need for sufficient funding to overcome initial obstacles.
The cultivation of Terengganu melons involves growing them in greenhouses on four cycles each year, with a harvesting period of 65 days. The fruits benefit from hot weather, as they absorb more water and nutrients from the ground, resulting in larger sizes. However, changing weather conditions present a constant headache for farmers, requiring them to adapt and innovate to ensure successful cultivation. Technologies like artificial intelligence are leveraged to gather valuable data and optimize farming practices, paving the way for sustainable growth and development in the industry.
Ayana Agrotech, founded by Mazaitul Akma Suhaimi, plays a significant role in the production and distribution of Terengganu melons. The company currently sells a majority of its produce in and around Kuala Lumpur, with plans to expand into new markets such as the Middle East, Hong Kong, and Singapore. The high quality and unique taste of Terengganu melons make them a sought-after product, providing opportunities for growth and market expansion. Despite the challenges related to funding and costly farming techniques, entrepreneurs like Mazaitul and Norzilawati are determined to overcome obstacles and establish successful businesses in the agricultural sector.
In order to compete in the market and establish a strong presence, proper marketing strategies are essential for introducing Terengganu melons to a wider audience. The unique qualities of the melons, such as their taste and texture, can be highlighted to attract consumers and create a demand for the product. Leveraging innovative marketing techniques and partnerships can help to increase sales and expand market reach, enabling businesses like Ayana Agrotech to establish themselves as leaders in the industry. By focusing on quality and customer satisfaction, entrepreneurs can overcome challenges and build successful businesses in the competitive agricultural market.
Despite the challenges posed by weather fluctuations and funding constraints, the cultivation of Terengganu melons presents significant opportunities for growth and innovation in the agricultural sector. Entrepreneurs like Mazaitul Akma Suhaimi and Norzilawati Fauzi are paving the way for the development of sustainable farming practices and the expansion of the market for Terengganu melons. By leveraging technologies, adopting innovative approaches, and focusing on quality, these entrepreneurs are able to overcome obstacles and establish successful businesses in the industry. With a strategic focus on marketing and market expansion, the potential of Terengganu melons can be realized, benefiting both farmers and consumers in Malaysia and beyond.
