Malaysia eyes Davao coconut shells for energy use

DAVAO CITY — The Department of Agriculture (DA)–Davao Region has begun discussions with a Malaysian company about potential market opportunities for coconut shells as an alternative energy resource.

Through its Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD), DA-Davao Region officials recently met with Borneo New Energy representatives to assess the availability and volume of coconut shells.

The foreign business group also wanted to explore potential collaboration on the coconut’s sustainable use.

Article continues after this advertisement

The company expressed interest in purchasing coconut shells for energy production, with an initial plan for about 100 metric tons, pending further assessment of supply capacity.

FEATURED STORIES

NEWSINFO

NEWSINFO

NEWSINFO

In a statement on Thursday, the DA’s regional office said the discussions aim to identify additional markets for coconut by‑products and promote sustainable resource use.

“Potential collaboration with Borneo New Energy may provide coconut farmers with an additional market for coconut shells that are otherwise treated as waste or low‑value by‑products,” the agency said.

The initiative follows the recently concluded Sabah International Expo 2026, which created opportunities for local commodities to connect with international buyers.

As part of the assessment, DA‑Davao Region is coordinating with the Katipunan Small Coconut Farmers Multipurpose Cooperative in Panabo City, Davao del Norte.

The cooperative manages about 2,350 hectares of coconut farms and has 800 members, producing 400 to 500 metric tons per month, a potential supply source for the proposed market. /apl