For many small-scale agropreneurs in Penang, the Agro MADANI Sales Programme (JAM) Penang Tour Edition functions as more than just a marketplace; it acts as a launchpad for growth, enabling sustainable incomes and facilitating expansion into markets beyond state lines. Now in its third edition, this time held in the capital as part of the Selangor leg of the tour, the initiative continues to serve as a strategic platform for strengthening the marketing network and reach of Penang’s agricultural entrepreneurs, according to State Executive Councillor for Trade and Entrepreneurship and Rural Development, Datuk Rashidi Zinol.
Rashidi stated that the programme, organised by the Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (FAMA) in collaboration with the Penang government, is not simply a sales event but a high-impact initiative designed to generate long-term income for agropreneurs. “Previously, the programme was held in Melaka and Kelantan, both of which received encouraging responses. The current edition has not only sustained that momentum but also opened new avenues for Penang products to penetrate interstate markets,” he said.
“InsyaAllah, we will bring the tour to other strategic locations. We are currently identifying areas with strong market potential and opportunities to help our entrepreneurs broaden their reach,” he added. Rashidi made these remarks after officiating the Penang showcase of the JAM Tour at FAMA headquarters.
FAMA chairman Aminuddin Zulkipli and director-general Abdul Rashid Bahri were also present. Rashidi further commented that the state government remains committed to supporting such initiatives to ensure lasting impact on local agropreneurs and producers nationwide.
Among the products featured at this edition of the JAM Tour were Penang durians, a signature offering of the state, which drew high demand, including advance orders prior to the event. In addition to durians, Penang entrepreneurs also offered a diverse range of fresh and dried food products, including vegetables, fruits, chicken, fish, meat, and essential goods such as cooking oil, flour, and rice.
A total of 46 sales lots were made available, involving 31 Penang-based entrepreneurs, with sales expected to reach RM75,000. “Given the enthusiastic response so far, we expect over 2,000 visitors for this edition of JAM and we may even exceed that,” said Rashidi. He also noted that the Kelantan leg of the tour recorded RM230,000 in sales, providing strong motivation for entrepreneurs to improve their performance in future editions.
The JAM programme offers daily essentials at affordable prices, enabling consumers to purchase directly from agri-food producers with savings of up to 30 per cent. Concurrently, FAMA aims to implement 3,500 JAM programmes nationwide this year as part of wider efforts to ensure food security and bolster the agricultural economy.
FAMA chairman Aminuddin Zulkipli revealed that the agency is developing a new marketing strategy, which includes forming a dedicated task force to coordinate product distribution outside local areas, with the aim of reducing delivery costs and improving logistical efficiency.
