Bintangor’s Orange Success: The Accomplishments of the Foochow Chinese Community

A married couple of Foochow Chinese origin in Bintangor sells pickles: their earnings are enough for a comfortable living. Photo credit: Author.

BORNEO TRAVEL: Bintangor, Sarawak, Malaysia

On the morning of August 8, 2024, Clemence Joy, driving a Hilux with me, Patricia, and the renowned Indonesian photographer, Arbain Rambey, slowed down the vehicle. 

As we left the small town of Bintangor, we chatted about the orange orchards visible on both sides of the road. 

The Foochow Chinese community’s success

The Hilux had just exited Bintangor and was heading onto the highway towards Sibu. However, Clemence, ever so thoughtful, suddenly eased the vehicle to a stop. 

Clemence pulled over to the side of the road and parked at an orange stall run by the local Chinese community. What a delightful surprise for us! Clemence’s kindness was evident—he not only satisfied our curiosity but also our desire to taste Bintangor’s famous oranges as first-time visitors.

Bintangor, located in Sarawak, Malaysia, stands out as a prime example of the Foochow Chinese community’s success in orange cultivation. 

Known as the “Orange City,” Bintangor has become a hub for orange farming, thanks to the remarkable adaptation and success of the Foochow community, originally from Sibu.

Popular varieties of oranges

In Bintangor, oranges are categorized into three main types, each with its unique characteristics:

1. Jeruk madu (Honey orange)
   This is the most popular variety in Bintangor. Known for its intensely sweet flavor and abundant juiciness, the Honey Orange provides a refreshing and satisfying eating experience. Its high quality and delightful taste make it a favorite among locals. Priced around 11 ringgit per kilogram (approximately 2.7 USD), Honey oranges are an affordable treat for such a premium product.
2. Jeruk susu (Milk orange)
   This variety is noted for its milder flavor and distinct texture compared to Honey Oranges. While not as sweet, Milk oranges offer a softer taste, and their name may refer to their lighter color or creamy texture.
3. Jeruk asam manis (Sweet and sour orange)
   This type combines sweet and tangy flavors, delivering a more complex taste experience. Sweet and sour oranges are often used in cooking and as a fresh snack, providing a versatile option for various culinary uses.

Effective marketing strategies

The success of the orange trade in Bintangor is partly due to effective marketing strategies. The stalls operated by the Foochow Chinese community are often located in strategic spots, such as along the main road connecting Serian and Bintangor. 

This strategic placement allows them to attract a high volume of customers passing by, maximizing their sales. With high visibility and easy access, these stalls capture the attention of drivers and pedestrians alike.

The success of these orange enterprises has a significant impact on the local economy. Beyond providing high-quality products for the community, these ventures create jobs and elevate living standards in Bintangor. 

The Foochow Chinese community’s successful adaptation in Bintangor highlights how perseverance, creativity, and local knowledge can lead to success in a new environment.

Hardworking spirit are truly inspiring

With Honey Oranges as the standout variety and other types also popular, Bintangor continues to establish itself as a major center for orange production in Malaysia. This success is a testament to the adaptability and innovation of the Foochow Chinese community and their contribution to local economic growth.

Look at that! 

Even though they’re ‘just’ selling oranges, this Chinese couple from Foochow in Bintangor has a Hillux truck. 

Their tenacity, resilience, and hardworking spirit are truly inspiring and worth emulating!

- Masri Sareb Putra