Ginger Cultivation: A Lucrative Opportunity for Rural Communities
Unlocking the Potential of Ginger Cultivation in Betong
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has highlighted the significant potential of ginger cultivation to generate substantial income for rural communities, particularly in Betong. According to him, ginger is in high demand for use in the production of cosmetics and pharmaceuticals abroad, with a multinational company requiring a monthly supply of 10 containers of ginger.
Meeting the Demand
Currently, the production of ginger in Betong is insufficient, with only one or two containers per month being produced. This falls short of the demand, which requires a much larger supply. "They require a far larger supply," said Dr. Ahmad Zahid, emphasizing the need for a significant increase in ginger production.
PROSPEK Initiative
To address this issue, the Rural and Regional Development Ministry is planning to launch the Integrated Rural Economic Development Project (PROSPEK) in Betong. This initiative will focus on ginger cultivation and free-range chicken farming as primary drivers of local economic growth. The project is expected to benefit more than 3,000 people and will commence next year, with development continuing until 2029.
Global Demand for Ginger
Ginger enjoys strong demand from China, Europe, and the United States for use in cosmetics and pharmaceutical production. This presents a significant opportunity for rural communities in Betong to capitalize on the global demand and improve their economic prospects.
Rural Economic Growth
The PROSPEK initiative is an important step towards achieving rural economic growth and development. By focusing on ginger cultivation and free-range chicken farming, the project will create new opportunities for rural communities and improve their livelihoods.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the potential of ginger cultivation in Betong is significant, with the potential to generate substantial income for rural communities. With the launch of the PROSPEK initiative, the Rural and Regional Development Ministry is taking steps to unlock this potential and drive local economic growth.
FAQs
- What is the demand for ginger globally?
Ginger is in high demand for use in the production of cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, with a multinational company requiring a monthly supply of 10 containers of ginger. - What is the current production level of ginger in Betong?
The current production level of ginger in Betong is insufficient, with only one or two containers per month being produced. - What is the target production level for ginger in Betong?
The target production level for ginger in Betong is 10 containers per month for export. - What is the PROSPEK initiative?
The PROSPEK initiative is an Integrated Rural Economic Development Project that will focus on ginger cultivation and free-range chicken farming as primary drivers of local economic growth.