Casey Teh

In 2009, Casey Teh, established TenAsia Corporation Sdn Bhd, which pioneered the development of carbon fiber composite telescopic pole technology to harvest oil palm. This proprietary technology was painstakingly developed in eight years to transform the age-old and less efficient practices of using bamboo or heavier aluminum poles, which were introduced five decades ago.

Given the lack of relevant expertise in this technology, both in Malaysia and across Asia, Casey took it upon himself to master the know-how, by collaborating and seeking advice from industry experts, including the Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB), academia, by reviewing academical research papers and visiting trade shows, composite manufacturers and through extensive trial and error.  Strong industry support helped to progress the technology from being a product of inferior quality requiring high costs, to an extremely durable and affordable product.

The advanced lightweight composite technology increased the efficiency of tall palm harvesting between 30% to 40%, thereby expanding coverage, increasing income and reducing labour dependency. This has also resulted in the mitigation of heavy losses from unharvested rotten crops.

TenAsia is now recognized for as a technology leader in harvesting and pruning tall oil palms and coconut trees. Growing its revenue from below RM1 million in 2016 to RM5.65 million in 2021, the company exports to many markets today globally, generating a revenue of RM7.38 million in 2022 with a target of RM10 million in 2023. TenAsia has patented several new technologies, which will be commercialized in the coming year.