JERANTUT: The state Agriculture Department will open applications next week for those interested in undertaking large-scale red onion farming projects under its guidance.
Director Muhd Rizal Baharom said the department is seeking participants genuinely interested in onion farming. Once the selection process is complete, participants will undergo training to enhance their skills and improve the project's success rate.
"The department has designated Jerantut as the red onion farming hub, focusing on large-scale production capable of year-round harvests," he said.
The department is targeting 20 farmers to cultivate 20 hectares during the first phase. Interested individuals are encouraged to refer to the department's Facebook page for further details.
Rizal made the announcement after visiting a red onion farming project managed by a husband-and-wife team on a two-hectare plot in Kampung Pasir Sia, Tembeling Tengah, Jerantut.
"The department guarantees incentives for participants after they complete a short course on onion cultivation. Knowledge is crucial to ensuring the project's success," he said.
To encourage agro-tourism, Rizal said onion farms will be open to the public, allowing visitors to view the fields and purchase locally-produced Jerantut onions.
"We are planning various onion-related activities to establish Jerantut as the state's onion hub," he added.