Liberica Coffee Development and Refinement Project in Sarawak Malaysia

Abstract

This article discusses the past, present, and future development potential of the Liberica coffee industry in Malaysia, a traditional producer of Liberica coffee. It explores the challenges faced by the industry in the context of the specialty coffee movement and global warming. The article focuses on the history of Liberica coffee cultivation among the indigenous communities in the inland regions of Sarawak and Borneo, highlighting the diversity of Liberica varieties and their potential from rainforest highlands to river valleys. The article introduces the “Liberica refinement project” in Sarawak, which emphasizes natural farming methods. It discusses how trust was built with the indigenous communities, effective quality control systems were established, and how this enabled Liberica to enter the specialty coffee market. Through market-driven approaches, the project aims to empower indigenous communities and improve their livelihoods.

Keywords

• <i>Coffea liberica</i>
• Sarawak
• Long Banga