The Malaysian agriculture sector is witnessing a technological revolution, with innovative solutions designed to address challenges such as labor shortages and increase productivity. Automation and precision farming technologies are at the forefront of this transformation, reshaping the way agriculture is conducted in the country.
Meraque Services, a Selangor-based automation solutions company, has developed an autonomous ground vehicle (AGV) that resembles a self-driving tractor. This AGV is specially designed to assist with fertilizing large palm oil plantations. Equipped with rubber tracks and a Lidar system for improved traction and navigation, the AGV can operate efficiently even in challenging terrain and low-light conditions. It creates detailed 3D maps of its surroundings, allowing for precise navigation and obstacle avoidance. Data collected by the AGV is relayed in real-time to a command center using LoRa sensors, ensuring connectivity in areas with no internet access. This technology significantly reduces the need for labor, as only one person is required to operate the AGV remotely, and the spraying process is automated. The AGV’s smart system employs artificial intelligence to recognize individual palm oil trees and selectively spray them, reducing fertilizer wastage by up to 40%. This precision agriculture approach optimizes farming practices and leverages technology to overcome traditional challenges.
BoomGrow Farms, an agritech startup, is contributing to the shift towards hyperlocal food production. They have set up a vertical farm in Shah Alam, Selangor, where automated systems control the growth of leafy greens like kale, spinach, and Swiss chards. The farm relies on proprietary AI-driven precision farming technology, including fans, LED lights, and sensors that continuously monitor and automate tasks, from watering to nutrient supply. This data-driven farming approach ensures consistent crop quality and minimizes resource usage. Through a combination of hardware and software, the time to harvest is reduced, making fresh produce readily available.
Both Meraque Services and BoomGrow Farms exemplify the potential of technology to revolutionize the agriculture sector, reducing labor demands, improving productivity, and enhancing the quality of agricultural products. As Malaysia explores the possibilities of technology in farming, there is a growing need for proper training and awareness among farmers to facilitate a smooth transition to these innovative solutions. Cultivating talent, especially in data handling and technology integration, is essential to ensure that technology empowers farmers and enhances their capabilities rather than replacing them. This shift towards technology-driven agriculture aligns with the need for sustainable and efficient farming practices in the face of challenges like labor shortages and environmental concerns.
