Not everybody practiced deleafing of fig trees. But if they do, it could be one of the reasons below:
1. Pruning of rusty leaves - it rains most of the time in Malaysia and most plants are not under rain shelter.
2. Collecting leaves for making tea - several people have started this for sale, while some for own consumption.
3. Pruning to divert energy to fruits as mentioned by ADelmanto. This is being experimented by some.
As mentioned by Malikyusof figs are still new in Malaysia. A few growers are learning the hard way, planting plants that require wasps, whereas only self-pollinated fig plants (or common figs) can be grown in Malaysia.
The fact that tin is mentioned in the Quran, together with olive (and six other fruits) helps to make it a popular hobby now. Health benefits of the tree are also being explored, including making tea.
Preference for propagation is taking center stage compared to harvesting of ripe fruits as the photo in the first posting by Aaron4USA showed. Market for new plants, cutting and air layerings is potentially big if followers of Pokok Tin (Fig Plant) Malaysia Facebook (about 8,000) is any indication. Fresh figs, imported mainly from Turkey, are obtainable in supermarkets.
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Wish list: Black Madeira (probably from UCD), Galicia Negra, Italian 258.