Chan (left) and Ng officiated the launching of ‘Single Estate Kota Marudu Chocolate’ which is made of 68 per cent Kota Marudu dark chocolate.
KOTA KINABALU (Nov 25): Cocoa beans from Kota Marudu are used to make a chocolate which was launched by Deputy Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Chan Foong Hin in Selangor.
The ‘Single Estate Kota Marudu Chocolate’ is processed at the factory of Benns Ethicoa which has made a collaboration with the Malaysian Cocoa Board, to source the cocoa beans produced by a Sabah cocoa farmer, Poimon Dangkat.
This latest single source chocolate is one of the bean-to-bar products range of Benns Ethicoa.
The Plantation and Commodities Ministry lauds the effort by local chocolatiers that produce fine quality and single source beans as it is in line with the effort of making Malaysia as a premium beans and chocolates producers.
“This initiative represents a concerted effort by LKM to serve as a bridge in establishing a supply network for cocoa beans, connecting cocoa bean producers with users. Therefore, I strongly encourage the continued expansion of this endeavour to further strengthen the development of the national cocoa industry, particularly by involving private companies like Benns, which remain committed to supporting cocoa farmers,” said Chan.
Currently, the cocoa industry is attracting the interest in cocoa farmers and plantation as the price of cocoa beans soared up to three folds, which is RM18-RM23/kg and the demand of cocoa beans keeps increasing.
Chan added that the cocoa industry has made a substantial contribution to the national GDP, with export revenue from January to August 2024 reaching RM8.873 billion, representing 98% of the RM9 billion target for the year.
He highlighted that semi-finished cocoa products, such as cocoa butter, cocoa powder and chocolate products are among the key contributors to this achievement. This, he said, underscores the continued significance of the cocoa commodity as a catalyst for the nation’s economic growth.
The ministry, through Malaysian Cocoa Board, is undertaking efforts to increase the local beans production through cocoa farm revitalising program, new cocoa planting areas and utilisation of modern technology and research and development efforts in managing cocoa farm.
Meanwhile, Poimon, 62, and his wife have diligently managed a modest two-hectare cacao farm since 2011, pouring their hard work and passion into every harvest.
Poimon’s dedication bore fruit when he clinched the prestigious 2021 Asia Pacific Cocoa Excellence Award in Italy, a testament to his commitment to quality cocoa cultivation.
His beans tell a flavourful tale, boasting fruity notes of citrus and tropical delights, coupled with a gentle, low acidity that sets them apart.
Yet, like many small cocoa farmers, Poimon faced formidable challenges during the Covid period. Escalating fertiliser prices and the impact of climate change posed hurdles to his once-thriving farm.
Productivity plummeted from a high of four metric tons per year to less than half, underscoring the resilience required in the face of adversity.
Through it all, Poimon’s unwavering spirit and commitment to excellence continue to inspire.
Benns Ethicoa’s 68% Kota Marudu dark chocolate is the result of a dedication to quality and sustainability. It is sourced from the lush cacao farms of Kota Marudu.
By partnering directly with local farmers, Benns Ethicoa ensures fair practices and traceability.
Each batch is meticulously crafted, highlighting the rich, bold flavors of Malaysian cocoa in a smooth, balanced 68% dark chocolate. This bar is a true celebration of artisanal chocolate-making, where sustainability meets exceptional taste.
Also present at the launching ceremny were the managing director of Benns Ethicoa, Wilfred Ng and representatives from the Malaysian Cocoa Board.
