04 Local News @ AGROBiz | January-February . 2025
Bursa ’ s new star
04 Local News @ AGROBiz | January-February . 2025
Replanting for tomorrow
( PHOTO BY THE BORNEO POST )
THE Incorporated Society of Planters ( ISP ) Central Sarawak branch recently called for urgent replanting of ageing oil palm trees to secure the industry ’ s future .
Chairman Ling Chia Yi revealed that over 1.5 million hectares of oil palm trees in Malaysia , representing 27 per cent of the country ’ s total plantation area , had exceeded 20 years of age and were due for replanting .
Speaking at the ‘ Oil Palm Replanting Seminar ’ in Central Sarawak , Ling emphasised that the health and productivity of plantations hinged on timely replanting efforts .
Ling said : “ It was not merely about replacing old trees , but about implementing innovative techniques and sustainable practices to keep Malaysia ’ s golden crop competitive globally .”
The two-day seminar , themed ‘ Innovative Strategies and Sustainable Approaches to Overcome Challenges and Achieve Maximum Yield ,’ gathered over 500 industry players .
Ling also underscored the need for a thorough review of replanting strategies , focusing on workforce development , improved planting materials , and Good Agronomic Practices ( GAP ).
A section of the participants attending the seminar .
He noted that the favourable crude palm oil prices since 2021 presented an ideal opportunity for the industry to enhance agromanagement , boost palm growth , and improve crop recovery .
Moreover , ISP ’ s national chairman Datuk Daud Amatzin , reiterated the importance of professional expertise , urging industry players to engage skilled planters to ensure effective management practices and maximise yields .
He also highlighted the necessity of adhering to Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil ( MSPO ) Certification requirements and warned against the use of counterfeit planting materials and substandard agricultural inputs .
“ Success in the oil palm industry required a return to fundamental practices ,” Daud remarked , adding that players should ignore detractors with hidden agendas and remain committed to advancing the sector .
From space to soil
MALAYSIA took a significant step in modernising its oil palm sector through a collaboration between the Malaysian Palm Oil Board ( MPOB ) and the Malaysian Space Agency ( MYSA ). A memorandum of understanding ( MoU ) was signed to integrate space-based technologies into agricultural research and development ( R & D ).
The partnership aimed to enhance oil palm cultivation by employing tools such as remote sensing , geographic information systems ( GIS ), and advanced communication technologies .
These tools facilitated precise monitoring of plantations , improved resource management , and ensured compliance with environmental regulations .
The effort underscored Malaysia ’ s commitment to sustainable farming practices and global environmental goals .
MPOB Director-General Datuk Dr Ahmad Parveez Ghulam Kadir stated that the initiative included nationwide tracking of pest outbreaks , diseases , and
Datuk Azlikamil Napiah ( left ) and Datuk Dr Ahmad Parveez Ghulam Kadir signing the MoU .
agroecological conditions .
He also mentioned that cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence ( AI ) and the Internet of Things ( IoT ) were explored to optimise plantation operations .
Moreover , MYSA Director-General Datuk Azlikamil Napiah explained that the agency developed systems powered by satellite data to assist in the planning , monitoring , and management of oil palm plantations . These systems provided detailed insights , enabling stakeholders to make informed decisions efficiently .
Beyond technological advancements , the collaboration focused on enhancing expertise through training programs and technology transfers . Strengthened data-sharing networks between MPOB and MYSA further ensured seamless partnership and knowledge exchange .
Through this initiative , Malaysia positioned itself as a leader in sustainable agriculture , setting a benchmark for innovation in the oil palm industry .
Bursa ’ s new star
ON DEC 5 , Cropmate Bhd made its debut on Bursa Malaysia ’ s ACE Market , opening at 24.5 sen - an impressive 22.5 per cent premium above its initial public offering ( IPO ) price of 20 sen . The debut recorded a strong start , with 60 million shares changing hands at the opening bell .
The IPO raised RM42 million for the company , with RM17.1 million allocated as working capital to support its operations in providing fertilisers for durian orchards and oil palm plantations .
Another RM16.7 million was set aside to partially finance the acquisition of production assets for its factories , as outlined in its prospectus .
In addition , the funds were earmarked for capital expenditure , including the establishment of a research laboratory , while a portion was used to cover listing expenses .
Independent non-executive chairman Lau Yoon Kwai stated that the funds raised through the IPO had strengthened Cropmate ’ s ability to serve Malaysia ’ s agricultural sector .
“ The capital enabled us to acquire essential production assets , finance critical projects , and bolster our working capital ,” Lau said .
As the first fertiliserfocused company to be listed on Bursa Malaysia , Cropmate expressed its commitment to advancing sustainable farming practices and supporting national food security goals .
“ We remain dedicated to delivering long-term value to our stakeholders while contributing to Malaysia ’ s sustainable agriculture ,” Lau added . – @ AGROBiz