WELLINGTON: While Malaysians might crave imported Kiwi fruit and avocados from New Zealand, it turns out Malaysian pineapples are highly sought after here.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi revealed this during his five-day working visit to New Zealand.

“There is a high demand for our pineapples due to their quality, texture, and sweetness. However, export of Malaysian pineapples is currently very limited,” he told reporters at a press conference on Friday (July 18).

Among the varieties popular with New Zealanders is the MD2 pineapple, considered a premium type known for its sweetness, low acidity, and fragrant aroma.

The MD2, sold locally and exported, is also known by trade names such as “Golden Ripe,” “Super Sweet,” “Rompine,” or “Gold.”

Malaysian MD2 pineapples are currently exported to several regions, including the Middle East and Europe.

Johor is the largest producer of MD2 pineapples in Malaysia, with other states like Perak also involved in their cultivation.

States like Penang, Kedah, Selangor, and Pahang are beginning to grow the MD2 variety as well.

The MD2 pineapple is a key crop under Malaysia’s Economic Transformation Programme and is targeted for increased production to meet both domestic and export demands.

Ahmad Zahid, who also serves as Rural and Regional Development Minister, said he plans to discuss increasing pineapple cultivation with Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu.

“I will also request the Selangor, Pahang, Johor, and Melaka state governments to increase pineapple cultivation on a large scale,” he added, noting the vast potential for expanding exports due to the high demand.

Ahmad Zahid is on an official working visit to New Zealand from July 14 to July 18.