Article: The wonders of pomelo

Friday August 28, 2009

By CHAN LI LEEN

IPOH: The Tambun pomelo, famous for its juicy and sweet flesh, is more than just a good eat – it has medicinal potential and can be used as an ingredient for aromatic oil.

The Perak state government has engaged Taiwanese Professor Frank Lee Shin Mo to explore how pomelo growers in Tambun can tap the many uses of the fruit, said state executive councillor Datuk Dr Mah Hang Soon.

Prof Lee is an expert in business management and was previously adviser to world leaders such as Singapore Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew and successful brands such as Hai-O.

"We have brought the professor here to find ways to promote our pomelos internationally.

Home grown: Dr Mah (left) and Prof Lee complimenting Chin (centre) on the beautiful fruits at his farm in Tambun yesterday.

"From what we know, the skin of the pomelo has medicinal properties while its flower can be used as ingredients for aromatic oil and perfume,'' Dr Mah told reporters after his visit to Tambun Pomelo Growers Association secretary Chin Too Kam's farm here yesterday.

He added that an English company had even offered to buy the flowers of the pomelo plant from Chin to be processed into aromatic oil.

"The company is willing to pay the price of a whole fruit for each flower," Dr Mah said.

Prof Lee will also assist the state's move into high-tech farming and help develop Perak's ornamental fish-farming and shoe-making industries.

This article was taken from: The Star Online: Nation 28 August 2009