‘Rock melon’ R&D project in Kuala Rajang shows potential as lily, rose varieties set for May harvest

Hybrid HydroFertigation rock melon project in Kuala Rajang records 100 per cent growth, with premium lily and rose varieties entering fruiting stage ahead of end May harvest. Photo credit: Facebook/Len Talif Salleh

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Apr 14: A rock melon research and development (R&D) project in Kuala Rajang has recorded encouraging progress with two exclusive varieties, lily and rose, now bearing fruit and expected to be harvested by the end of May.

In a Facebook post, Deputy Minister for Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment Datuk Len Talif Salleh said the project, undertaken by Kuala Rajang Islamic Welfare Trust Board (LAKIKR) has achieved 100 per cent growth since planting began in early March, despite minor issues.

“The crops have now entered the fruiting stage, marking a key milestone for the hybrid HydroFertigation initiative,” he said.

Rock melon R&D phase one positioned as catalyst for wider adoption of smart agriculture practices among local farmers. Photo credit: Facebook/Len Talif Salleh

Situated in Kampung Rajang within the Tanjung Manis area, it adopts smart farming technology with technical guidance from Skyscraper Airhydro Industries Sdn Bhd, with funding support from the Sarawak Economic Planning Unit (EPU).

Len said strong emphasis is placed on scientifically controlled crop quality, including sweetness levels measured by Brix and fruit texture to meet premium standards.

“The first phase is expected to serve as a catalyst for wider adoption of modern fertigation and hydroponic methods among local agricultural players.

“Notably, the system does not require pumps from tanks to plants and eliminates the use of cocopeat, reflecting a shift towards more efficient and advanced agricultural practices,” he added.

The initiative is in line with efforts to drive Sarawak’s agricultural sector towards high-technology adoption and improved productivity. — DayakDaily