Bitey carnivores, beautiful blooms

The Venus flytrap

KUCHING: Exhibitors from Malaysia, China, Singapore, Taiwan and Thailand gathered at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching to showcase a variety of garden and ornamental plants.

Orchids featured prominently in the first Borneo International Garden Expo Sarawak, but other plants were on display as well.

Among the more unusual plants were the Venus flytrap, sundew and Sarracenia or North American pitcher plants, all carnivorous plants which attract and digest insects.

Yap Geok Lin and Tan Li Qi, the co-owners of the Kuching Carnivorous Plant Store, started the business in 2018 mainly for educational purposes.

“I previously taught science in tuition classes and my students had only seen the Venus flytrap in their textbooks.

“One day I saw it at a market and bought it to show my students. I started caring for the plant as a hobby before turning it into a business,” Yap said.

The plants are imported from Europe with a permit from the Agriculture Department.

“We want to let the younger generation know that there are different plants, not just what we have here,” Tan said.

He added that the Sarracenia and Venus flytraps were ornamental plants which would not become invasive as they would not survive in a tropical climate without care.

Meanwhile, Benchaphon Sriranasunt from Thailand’s Kokkok Orchids, said orchids were popular as they came in many varieties and were easy to care for.

“We have two types of customers - collectors who look for rare species and people who buy orchids because they like them.

“So we have a few rare species and a huge supply of orchids at affordable prices,” she said.

Sarawak Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the garden expo, held on March 17-19, would have a positive impact on the local horticulture industry and tourism.

“Our tropical rainforest is home to a diverse range of rare and endemic plant species, making it an attractive destination for botanical enthusiasts and nature lovers.

“By promoting the rare plant industry and its tourism potential, Sarawak can diversify its tourism industry and boost economic growth,” he said.

Abdul Karim also said the expo was in line with the state government’s focus on environmental sustainability.

“I believe it will inspire individuals to act towards preserving our planet’s natural heritage and promoting sustainability.

“It will serve as a platform for us to work together towards a better future for generations to come,” he said.