Malaysia was once one of the top producers of pineapples in the world. However, growing market competition from neighbouring countries such as the Philippines, Thailand and Indonesia has had an impact on the planting area which has reduced to 14,000 ha. Currently, most of the varieties grown are for fresh consumption; these include Moris (Queen), Josapine, N36, Sarawak and quite recently the MD2. The MD2 variety has a global appeal in terms of market demand, longer shelf life and favourable organoleptic characteristics. Since its introduction into Malaysia close to a decade ago, its popularity and demand among growers and consumers have increased. While there is a drive to increase its production for the domestic and export market, there are also constraints that affect further development of the variety, such as availability of certified and true planting materials, fruit quality standards, agro-climatic suitability, low productivity and poor farm practices.

Cognizant of these issues, the International Tropical Fruits Network (TFNet) with joint partners Department of Agriculture, Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI), Malaysia Pineapple Industry Board (MPIB) and Pineapple Growers Association of Malaysia (PPNM) will organise a seminar to deliberate on issues that jeopardize development of the MD2 variety. A recommendation document will be produced as an outcome of the seminar.