Shareholder Update on Durian Plantation Progress – October 2024
As we progress into year 2.5 of our durian plantation journey, we are pleased to share that our 56-acre plot is fully planted and thriving. With 2,400 durian trees successfully rooted, we have a strong foundation for future yields. Of these, 80% are Musang King, known for their premium quality and high demand both locally and internationally, while the remaining 20% are Black Thorn, another highly sought-after variety. Both breeds hold exceptional value in the market, positioning us well for success when we reach harvest time.
Our team has worked diligently to manage replanting, keeping the rate of replacement at 10% of total trees due to natural mortality. Encouragingly, the mortality rate has shown a downward trend over time. This indicates that as our trees mature, they are increasingly resilient to environmental factors and other challenges. Every tree loss is an opportunity for us to refine our cultivation techniques, strengthen disease management protocols, and learn from ongoing observations, contributing to the overall health of our plantation.
Our immediate priority is the careful nurturing of these trees to ensure their continued growth and productivity. With the first anticipated yield in 2027, we are in a crucial phase of durian development, focusing on consistent care and monitoring. We have implemented comprehensive maintenance routines, including regular pruning, targeted fertilization, and pest control measures to promote healthy growth. By maintaining a proactive approach to plantation management, we aim to maximize tree vitality and future yields.
To support our ambitious plans, we are committed to prioritizing the welfare of our dedicated workforce, whose hard work underpins the success of our plantation. We believe that a motivated and well-supported team is essential to achieving our goals. We are enhancing worker welfare through several initiatives, including providing comfortable housing facilities, regular health check-ups, and access to training programs to deepen their skills in durian cultivation and overall plantation management. Additionally, we offer fair wages and safe working conditions, recognizing that the dedication of our workers plays a vital role in our journey to a successful durian harvest.
We are also investing continuously in infrastructure upgrades to support our plantation’s growth and sustainability. Recent efforts have focused on improving water management systems to ensure consistent irrigation, even during dry spells, and reinforcing drainage to minimize the risks of waterlogging, which can negatively impact tree health. Furthermore, we are developing better access roads throughout the plantation, allowing workers and machinery to move more efficiently. These improvements not only facilitate our daily operations but also enhance overall plantation resilience, especially as our trees mature and require greater care.
Looking ahead, we are optimistic about the steady progress of our plantation. While our first yield in 2028 remains some years away, every step we take now is setting the foundation for that moment and beyond. We are dedicated to ensuring that each phase, from tree health to worker welfare and infrastructure development, aligns with our goal of establishing a highly productive and sustainable durian plantation. We thank our shareholders for their continued support, and we look forward to updating you further as we continue this exciting journey towards our first harvest and beyond.
