Agrobazaar Malaysia in Singapore marks first year on successful note

0
Ahmad Shabery (second right) with Ng Lang (second left) and Lim Teck Yin (right) showing the ‘Musang King’ durian during the campaign. Also presents was Husni (left). — Bernama photo

Ahmad Shabery (second right) with Ng Lang (second left) and Lim Teck Yin (right) showing the ‘Musang King’ durian during the campaign. Also presents was Husni (left). — Bernama photo

SINGAPORE: The Agrobazaar Malaysia in Singapore, the first permanent platform for Malaysia’s fruits and agro-based products overseas, has marked a successful first year, with a birthday celebration.

Agriculture and Agro-based Industry Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek said: “We are doing well and most importantly, it signifies strong bond and enduring ties between Malaysia and Singapore.

“Whether we are aware or not, this shared passion in food is a basis of a strong bond between the people of Malaysia and Singapore. We love durian so much!

“And this demonstrates the effectiveness of what is called ‘durian diplomacy’. This strong bond, I believe, will continue for as long we respect and value each other,” he told reporters after launching Agrobazaar’s first anniversary celebration and Riuh De Agrobazaar Campaign here yesterday.

Ahmad Shabery is here on his first working visit since being appointed in his portfolio under the recent Cabinet reshuffle.

“As the first overseas branch, Agrobazaar in Singapore will be the model for the Federal Agricultural and Marketing Authority’s (Fama) to expand other outlets overseas including in Dubai, London, Hong Kong, mainland China and other targeted cities of the world,” he said.

Located at 37-43 Sultan Gate, Singapore, Agrobazaar Malaysia – an idea mooted by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak – is undertaken by the ministry and implemented by Fama.

Also present at yesterday’s event were the ministry’s secretary-general, Datuk Mohd Arif Abdul Rahman; Malaysian High Commissioner to Singapore Datuk Husni Zai Yaacob, Fama chairman Tan Sri Badruddin Amiruldin, Fama director-general Datuk Ahmad Ishak and Singapore’s Urban Redevelopment Authority chief executive officer Ng Lang. — Bernama