Mission programme in Malaysia and Thailand focused on sustainable horticultural development and long-term collaboration across Southeast Asia
Recently, Dutch Greenhouse Delta participated in a horticultural trade mission to Malaysia and Thailand, organised by Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) together with the Dutch embassies in the ASEAN region and PSPS Business Abroad. The mission brought together Dutch companies, knowledge partners and regional stakeholders to explore opportunities for cooperation in the rapidly developing horticultural markets of Southeast Asia.
Across the ASEAN region, horticulture is evolving rapidly. Increasing pressure on climate, water availability, food safety and productivity is accelerating the transition from traditional cultivation towards more sustainable and technology-driven production systems.
Throughout the week, one message stood out consistently: the demand in the region is no longer focused on standalone technologies alone. Growers, investors and public stakeholders are increasingly looking for practical and applicable solutions that fit the local context, combining technology with knowledge transfer, training, local implementation and long-term collaboration.
Field visits in Cameron Highlands provided valuable insight into both the urgency and ambition behind this transition. The development of more sustainable and modern horticulture in the region is strongly supported by His Royal Highness Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah Ibni Almarhum Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Al-Musta’in Billah, the Sultan of Pahang, who has shown strong interest in advancing high-tech and sustainable agriculture within the state.
A visit to the SMACH Agropark of Luuk Runia further highlighted the importance of demonstration facilities and practical training environments in accelerating local grower development and strengthening knowledge exchange throughout the sector.
At the same time, HortEx Bangkok provided an important platform for strategic dialogue and business development across the ASEAN region. As part of the trade mission programme, dedicated sessions and matchmaking activities were organised to connect Dutch expertise with regional ambitions and ongoing market developments.
The mission once again demonstrated the growing international relevance of integrated horticultural ecosystems, in which technology, education, operational knowledge and local partnerships are developed together to support sustainable food production and future-proof horticultural systems.