Fruit production in Johor, particularly bananas and papayas, has so far remained stable despite recent haze conditions affecting parts of the state. Melvin Long, secretary of the Johor Fruit Farmers Association, noted that no reports of crop damage have emerged from farmers, although the situation could change if air quality deteriorates further.

Currently, air quality in Johor is considered moderate, but Long cautioned that prolonged exposure to hazardous levels of haze could negatively impact fruit growth and yields. He explained that extended haze can disrupt photosynthesis by damaging plant cells, inhibiting gas exchange, and destroying chlorophyll, which is particularly concerning for papaya production.

Banana farming in the state predominantly features the Cavendish variety, with major cultivation districts including Batu Pahat, Kluang, and Pontian. Papaya farming is concentrated in Batu Pahat, Kluang, Muar, and Segamat. Long highlighted that Cavendish banana farms are typically equipped with sprinkler systems, a necessary feature for maintaining tissue-cultured plants.

The demand for Johor-grown Cavendish bananas remains strong, with most of the harvest supplied to local supermarkets and export markets in Singapore. Before the recent conflict in the Middle East, Malaysia also exported bananas to that region. Despite receiving interest from importers in Dubai, Long indicated that exports there are currently suspended due to regional instability.

Farmers in Johor are closely monitoring air quality developments, hoping for an improvement in haze conditions in the coming month. The Johor Fruit Farmers Association continues to assess the situation while expressing concern about potential impacts on fruit production should the haze worsen or persist.