KUALA LUMPUR: With food prices skyrocketing, the government is working to educate Malaysians on the economic benefits of community farming.
In fact, many urban and suburban Malaysians need no introduction to the idea of growing one's own food.
In Taman Dato' Harun here, resident Tengku Jaafar Tengku Mahmud has successfully grown sugar cane, potatoes and banana trees on a 3.2ha plot opposite his terrace house.
Over the past three years, the 62-year-old retiree has also been planting green vegetables such as kacang botol (goa bean/four-angled bean) and ulam in front of his house.
"Looking back, it was a good move as prices of goods are now shooting up."
He said residents from 30 other houses had also been growing vegetables and other plants there for their own consumption or for sale.
"When we get tired of eating the sugar cane, we will sell them for RM1.50 per stalk."
Jaafar said he used to grow cucumbers as well but gave up as they were vulnerable to worm infestation.
In Taman Semenyih Indah, Jameah Ponidin, 51, began growing vegetables in her garden as a hobby.
Nowadays, she turns to her garden for fresh produce whenever she can't find the time or energy to shop for groceries.
"I have always loved gardening. After we moved here six years ago, I started growing chillies, ladyfingers and pandan leaves."
In Kota Damansara, a secretary who only wanted to be known as 'Zu' said her worries over the chemical content of vegetables sold in the markets drove her to plant her own greens.
"I heard people saying that some farmers use chemicals to ensure fresher vegetables and I found it quite disturbing.
"So, I decided to grow kunyit (turmeric), mint leaf, lemongrass, ladies fingers and Japanese cucumber myself.
"Besides, why should I buy a packet of turmeric or ginger if I only need a little to cook? It's a waste going all the way to the shop and paying RM1 for a packet."
2008/04/23
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