Putting Kunak's unique chillies into world market

              Kunak chilies have its own uniqueness, spiciness and aroma. courtesy of Sugarbun 

There are many types of chillies in Sabah, but Momporok Chilli from Kunak has been chosen as the main ingredients for SUGARBUN's newly launched hot sauce Sabasco. 

Kunak is located on the East Coast of Sabah, and is best known for its nutrient rich soil due to ncient volcanic activity dating back over millions of years just as the island of Borneo was

forming. 

Through the years, Momporok Chilli continues to be cultivated by Kunak farmers with minimal

interventions to spurt and quicken its growth. 

This traditional method of farming resulted in a slower growing chilli fruit, but a harvest that is spicier, more flavourful and aromatic.

Momporok is a native Dusun word for Bulbul birds, which are very fond of eating these chillis and dispersing its seed. 

The birds are attracted to these wild-growing chilli just as it ripens to a bright red colour. Making them easy to spot and even easier to eat as it stands upright against the rest of the chilli bush.

Picture by Sugarbun 

 

Due to how it is grown naturally, Momporok Chilli can be susceptible to the weather and changes in season, threatening its steady supply. 

Sugarbun would continue to work directly with plantations and farmers by providing support that goes beyond securing a successful harvest. 

It includes future long term supply agreements to increase job prospects and security within the industry, boosting the Agricultural sector in Kunak and exhibit Sabah as a hothouse for the best chillis in Malaysia and South-East Asia.

                                                                     Picture by Sugarbun 

    SB Supplies & Logistics Sdn Bhd director Datuk Joseph Ambrose Lee said the sauce was inspired by     how Sabah’s Lada, a chilli condiment is always available on every dine-in table in restaurants, from        kopitiams to mamaks.

    “In Sabah, we have many types of chillies because of its complex geology. Every district has unique     chilies with its spiciness and aroma. 

    “But, nothing is comparable or surpasses the chillies from Kunak,” he said, adding the product could     showcase the best chilies to the world. 

                                                                Picture by Sugarbun