Malaysia has been cultivating cocoa for over 200 years. In a plantation in Malacca, the earliest known cocoa pods were discovered in 1778. It is thought that in 1770, the fruit was transported to Malaysia through Ceylon, then known as Sri Lanka. Those pods from Sri Lanka were probably originally from Brazil .

Under the subsequent 150 years of British domination, Malaysia emerged as a global leader in the production of cocoa, consistently ranking among the top ten producers for many years. But the process was significantly disrupted by World War II, and following the war, cultivation rose in response to growing demand from Europe. This had a particularly significant effect in Malaysian Borneo's Sabah and Sarawak regions.

1.  To protect cocoa plants from the detrimental effects of pests and diseases, which can lead to a reduction in yield by preventing or minimizing the damage.

2.  Accurately identify the specific diseases affecting cocoa plants. 

3. Managing pests and diseases that can affect the quality of cocoa beans, impacting their flavour, aroma, and overall market value.