Malaysia imports over 126,000 tonnes of coffee beans annually due to a low self-sufficiency rate, prompting new government initiatives to boost local production.
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia remains heavily reliant on coffee bean imports to meet domestic demand, with a self-sufficiency rate of just 33.2% in 2024.
Agriculture and Food Security Minister Mohamad Sabu said the country imported 126,062 metric tonnes of coffee beans last year, primarily Robusta and Arabica varieties.
Local production is limited to 2,861 metric tonnes from 2,924 hectares, concentrated in Johor, Sabah and Sarawak.
The main varieties grown are Liberica (87%), Robusta (10%) and Arabica (3%).
Responding to a senator’s question, Mohamad outlined the ministry’s commitment to supporting smallholders through incentives for planting materials, fertiliser and equipment.
Under the 12th Malaysia Plan, RM4.5 million was allocated to develop 300 hectares involving 270 farmers.
This continues under the 13th Malaysia Plan with a RM5 million allocation for the same area, plus an additional RM1.5 million earmarked for 2026.
Efforts include replanting old trees and restoring abandoned plantations with more productive Liberica clones.
The ministry also provides training and technical guidance to help farmers adopt modern, sustainable methods.
Research and seed improvement is ongoing in collaboration with the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI).
New superior varieties, including MKL-8, MKL-9 and MKL-10, are currently in development and testing.
Mohamad noted that coffee prices are not state-controlled but depend on production costs, processing and product quality.
To attract youth, the ministry offers start-up assistance grants of up to RM50,000 for new industry entrants.
