Awinn Global Market Services(GMS), a subsidiary of A-WINN Corp Sdn Bhd, has successfully ventured, with inputs from agriculture experts from Thailand, into the production of export-quality grapes. While Loire Valley, Rhone Valley and Napa Valley are regions renowned globally for their vineyards, Awinn GMS have added  Sendayan Valley in Negeri Sembilan to the list.

Work to transform a 50ha area in Negri Sembilan into Malaysia’s first agro-tourism park showcasing the latest technologies and know-how from Thailand in grape growing started in 2008 under a joint venture with the Negeri Sembilan government and with the support of the Ministry of Finance Malaysia.

Unlike conventional vineyards in Europe, America and Australia where old vines are meticulously maintained on slopes with ideal soils and climates, Sendayan Valley  grape crops are planted in lowland valley, using a hydro-regulation system  developed by Awinn GMS to ensure the correct temperature for optimum growth.

Specially designed tractors are used to monitor and prune the vines, and to spray organic fertilisers and environment-friendly pesticides. The system, developed in Thailand over the past decade, has enabled growers there to produce several varieties of grapes that are good for export.

Weather and soil conditions are not major issues in the growing of grapes as many tend to believe.  The success of Sendayan Valley is evident that what is important is knowledge and proper use of technology and monitoring to ensure a good harvest.

The technology used by Awinn GMS also includes a soil enhancement product, called Bitamin, which has been crucial to the company’s success in the business. Chemical fertilisers and substances that are harmful to the environment are minimised.

Although the sweet and crunchy grapes are the main attraction at the sprawling Sendayan Valley park, there are also other varieties of popular local fruits growing in orchards located amidst streams, fishing ponds and landscaped picnic spots. The park has become an ideal place to rest and relax.

The transfer of modern agricultural technology and knowledge from Thailand is a key aspect of the project, and local supervisors are trained to play significant roles in the park’s management. The company hope to make this an example of intra-Asean cooperation in the agricultural sector.