Singkawang to expand chips market to Malaysia

The Singkawang city administration in West Kalimantan  province has encouraged small-and medium-scale producers of chips to expand their market to the neighboring country of Malaysia.

"With the fast growth of SMEs in Singkawang, including in snack food production, we will develop the potential and target the Malaysian market," head of Singkawang's Industry, Trade, Cooperative, and SMEs Office Muslimin stated here on Saturday.

The local authority has planned to establish a food production center in North Singkawang Sub-district.

"Farmers constitute most residents of the sub-districts. They plant paddy, taro, cassava, and banana. We will improve their capability to boost the production of commodities," he stated.

Read also: PT Inalum constructing alumina refinery plant in West Kalimantan

He explained that the government will offer seeds and fertilizer in addition to training for development of the production center.

Read also: West Kalimantan mandau attractions makes governor tense

It will also offer guidance to SMEs including in the chip production process, packaging, licensing, and machinery as well for the massive production of chips to meet the market demand.

"We want to establish a processed food production center in North Singkawang to facilitate direct massive processing of the farmers' production to meet higher demand of the market," Muslimin added. 

Related news: Sarawak Chambers explore cooperation with Singkawang

EDITED BY INE