Ending Year 2011

Year 2011 had just ended and am reflecting on the progress so far, since taking over the management  in October. This was a very challenging period as I need to learn up agriculture, management in agriculture and marketing our produce in a very short time. Being away from love ones, had some toll on me too. Thankfully  I have all the support from my love ones, family members as well as partners. Even though it was a bit stressful, this is a rare opportunity to have a 'crash course' hands-on experience.

Had done up and documented the Smart Partnership Joint Venture Agreement with our partners to work on these lands, developing it to a rubber plantation. Agreement for Parcel 1, 2 & 6 had been signed. Awaiting the return of Agreement for Parcel 3. These agreement map out the responsibility, expectation of all partners so as we can progress and move ahead with a streamline and focused direction. Being a long term project, that may last up to 25 years this also provides a continuity in terms of administration.

Am in the final stages of getting the work pass for our Indonesian helpers. This permit is for 3 years and we are doing it without the help of agents in order to save cost. Agents charge a fee of $1,400 to $1,800 per head.

Accessed all the land area of all Parcel, identified areas that we can still develop. I find there are still plenty of potential in all the Parcel. Making plans to expand the coverage as by increasing the planting density, as it shall contribute more during harvesting. Shall start with those that have the easiest access area. Parcel 1 & 6, followed by 3 then 2. Parcel 7 is still under the land dispute and shall have to wait till it's sorted out.

The trials conducted is almost done and had identified some short/mid/long term crops that we can plant and market. Groundnuts, pumpkins, sweet potatoes, tapioca and corn are the short term corps. Banana shall be the main mid term crop as it can be grown on all the Parcels. Long term crops are mostly fruits trees like Avocado and Sukun (Breadfruit). We had also finish conducting our marketing studies on these crops.

Am grateful that I had learn a lot these few months, which shall be put to full use this year. Had also build a strong working relation with helpers as well as partners. Morale and commitment had a big boost especially from our helpers. Year 2012, shall catch up and further our initial progress. Year 2012 shall be our year of Redevelopment.