KUALA TERENGGANU: People are largely unaware that the ‘kesum’ plant or ‘daun laksa’ (laksa leaf), which grows wild can provide lucrative returns if cultivated commercially.
Former school bus driver, Mohamad Ngah, 57, from Kampung Tok Harun, Manir is living proof of such a venture, earning about RM3,000 a month.
The ‘kesum’ leaf is a herb which is used in cooking local dishes such as ‘laksa’ and ‘assam pedas’. It is also used in other Asian countries such as Vietnam, Thailand and Laos.
Mohamad said he started cultivating the herb four years ago on a three quarter hectare plot.
“In the first year, I could perform my Hajj, in the second I bought a Proton Waja car and the third I renovated my house.
“And this year, I expect to earn RM40,000, not counting December yet,” he told Bernama.
He gets an average of RM80 to RM100 daily for his efforts, said Mohamad.
“God willing, the returns are good if we work hard. But it’s worth it,” he added.
Mohamad and his wife Fatimah Ngah, 55, start tying the leaves in bundles after evening prayers and sell them at RM1 each at the Wakaf Mempelam wholesale market the following morning.
He cultivates the long-leaved variety as it has a greater demand compared to the short leaf type. — Bernama