SINCE he took office in July this year, Penang Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (Fama) director Mohd Azraie Ramli has been truly committed to accelerating the agriculture landscape in the state.
Mohd Azraie was seen all excited when presenting his ideas and potential future collaboration with local authorities during his virtual courtesy call on Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow today.
Chow, who was all praise for Fama’s commitment and hard work thus far, was particularly attracted to the setting up of fresh fruit markets in the state which Mohd Azraie mentioned his target for 2022.
“I believe this will turn out to be a very good initiative, especially to assist roadside traders to operate their businesses in a proper manner.
“No doubt, this will surely help create a new image for the traders and interested individuals, as well enhance the agriculture outlook in Penang,” Chow said during the virtual courtesy call from Komtar today.
It was learnt that two locations were identified for this initiative, namely an empty land opposite the Shariah courts in Balik Pulau (southwest district) and Jalan Permatang Pauh (central Seberang Perai district).
Meanwhile, Mohd Azraie said his department is currently in talks with the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) and Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) on this matter.
“We are working closely with both the local councils to make this happen, and hopefully it will materialise according to our plan.
“It was found that many roadside fruit traders, specifically in these two areas, were running their businesses without proper structure and planning.
“This initiative will certainly help set better standards for the state while trying to also create a more convenient space for the traders.
“We hope to also receive funds from the Federal Government to make this plan a reality,” Mohd Azraie said during his speech.
He added that when this plan becomes a reality, Fama, with the help of relevant agencies, will set up internet connectivity in these areas.
“This is to create a more diversified approach among the traders and consumers while making transactions.
“Digitalisation has been part of us and quite frankly, it has greatly occupied our daily lives.
“Hence, this approach will also help avoid overcrowding at these premises as consumers who prefer buying online, they can do so,” he added.
Separately, Azraie also said building works are currently ongoing at the Pasar Tani Kekal in Seberang Jaya and are expected to be completed in August 2022.
On a separate matter, he also added that all 56 outlets registered under Fama across the five districts that sell agricultural-based products, recorded total sales of almost RM103 million in 2021 (as of now).
“There’s been a positive increase in terms of total sales gained since 2019, and it was largely due to consumers who chose to buy from grocery stores over hypermarkets,” Mohd Azraie added.
Chow commended Fama for the increase in sales and urged Fama and its members to keep up the good work.
Mohd Azraie has also vowed to closely engage with young minds to become potential ‘agropreneurs’, especially fresh graduates struggling to secure jobs.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Muhamad Amir Irsyad Omar