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Step into the lush world of Simpang Renggam, Malaysia, where the sweet aroma of pineapples fills the air and the camaraderie among pineapple farmers is as golden as their harvest. Meet Lim Ser Kwee, who has dedicated his life to cultivating pineapples since childhood. As the president of the Federation of Vegetable Farmers Associations, his passion and expertise shine through. Joining him is the vibrant Huan Yi Heng, a young member of the esteemed HKK Fruits family, who carries the pineapple farming legacy into its third generation. Discover the secrets of successful pineapple cultivation, witness the tight-knit community of Simpang Renggam, and savour the fruits of their labour on this delightful journey through pineapple paradise.
Meet Ah Heng, a third-generation pineapple farmer from Simpang Renggam, home to one of Malaysia’s most tightly-knit farming communities. At just 26 years old, Ah Heng carries on the legacy of his family’s company, HKK Fruits, one of the largest pineapple plantations in the area. What began as his grandfather’s corn farm slowly transitioned into pineapple cultivation—a move that now defines the family’s identity. Today, HKK Fruits grows a variety of pineapples, including MD2 (highly prized for export), the sweet Josapine, and the tangy Morris, often used in local rojak or achar.
Pineapple farming is no small feat. Each fruit takes up to a year to grow, with artificial fertilisation and supplements applied in the early months to ensure high sugar content and good size. Despite careful attention, only about 90% of the yield meets the high standards required for sale—Grade A pineapples are sold incredibly affordable, while rejected fruits are turned into jam to minimise waste. As part of their supply chain, HKK Fruits partners with outlets in Singapore’s Pasir Panjang Wholesale Centre.
Global warming has made farming more challenging than before. The sun’s intensifying heat means pineapples must now wear protective coverings—like little hats—to shield them from scorching temperatures. Still, Ah Heng remains committed to his family’s work together with his younger brother who studied Supply Chain in Australia. Together, they represent a new generation of farmers—blending tradition with modern knowledge to keep Simpang Renggam’s pineapple heritage alive and thriving.
Tania Wee is a dedicated volunteer with My Community, actively guiding the My Tanjong Pagar tour and Good Morning Geylang Serai walk. She is known for being a helpful and consistent presence across tours, helping participants discover the history, architecture, and communities of these neighbourhoods.
Outside of her volunteer work, Tania is an experienced architect and design leader, with expertise in healthcare and wellness environments. She is also a Fellow of the Singapore Institute of Arbitrators, reflecting her broader professional commitment to design, negotiation, and stewardship of the built environment.
Toh Choon Mei has been a committed volunteer with My Community since 2021, serving as the tour in-charge (IC) for My Tanjong Pagar tour. She played an active role in My Community Festival 2023 and is noted as the IC leading Tanjong Pagar heritage walks.
Working behind the scenes, Toh contributes to tour coordination and volunteer support—helping ensure that cultural tours run smoothly and authentically. Her involvement reflects a sustained dedication to preserving and sharing the local history of Tanjong Pagar.
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