@ AGROBiz | July-August . 2024

Transforming agriculture through biotechnology one step at a time

This year ’ s Sabah Agro Expo ( SAEX ) 2024 provided a platform for these growths , with key players like The Malaysian Bioeconomy Development Corporation ( Bioeconomy Corporation ) leading the charge .

As an agency under the Ministry of Science , Technology and Innovation ( MOSTI ), Bioeconomy Corporation is tasked with spearheading the development of biotechnology and bio-based industries in Malaysia .

CULTIVATING A BIO-BASED FUTURE

@ AgroBiz spoke with Dr Faizal Hamid , Assistant Vice President of Industry Development at Bioeconomy Corporation , who shared insights into how the organisation is working to modernise and innovate

THE Lembaga Getah Malaysia ( LGM ) plays a pivotal role in transforming the region ’ s rubber industry by transferring advanced technologies to smallholders . During the recent SAEX 2024 expo , Jumadi bin Shari , a Senior Research Assistant from LGM in Sabah , shared insights into the organisation ’ s mission and its contributions to the agricultural sector in the state .

Jumadi , who has been with LGM for several years , explained that the primary focus of LGM is to introduce and implement new technologies developed at their headquarters in Peninsular Malaysia to the smallholders in Sabah .

“ Our work now centres on bridging the technological gap by transferring innovations directly to the smallholders , ensuring they benefit from the latest advancements in rubber cultivation .”

LGM ’ s collaboration with various government agencies , including

Faizal Hamid

within the region ’ s agricultural sector .

Despite the advancements , Sabah ’ s agricultural practices remain primarily traditional .

“ In Sabah , we still see a lot of traditional agricultural practices . While there ’ s a movement towards adopting technologies like IoT and drones , it ’ s still in its infancy ,” Faizal noted .

However , this traditional approach isn ’ t viewed negatively . Instead , it presents an opportunity

the Lembaga Industri Getah Sabah ( LIGS ), Rubber Industry Smallholders Development Authority ( RISDA ), and Federal Land Consolidation and Rehabilitation Authority ( FELCRA ), is vital to expanding these technological advancements .

This collaboration is not limited to technology transfer alone ; LGM also provides comprehensive training programs to smallholders .

“ We work closely with these agencies to enhance the technical knowledge of smallholders and introduce them to high-quality rubber clones ,” Jumadi added .

One of the significant technological advancements currently promoted by LGM in Sabah is hydrobased technology . This innovation includes the development of a specialised stimulant application tool that significantly boosts the income of smallholders by enhancing rubber yield .

Jumadi emphasised : “ We want for organisations like Bioeconomy Corporation to introduce bio-based solutions that align with environmental , social , and governance ( ESG ) principles .

One of the key areas of interest for Faizal is the potential to reduce the reliance on chemical fertilisers and pesticides in Sabah ’ s agriculture .

“ We ’ re looking forward to working with local authorities and industries to bring in sustainable solutions that can modernise

to ensure that smallholders in Sabah have access to these technologies , as they can greatly improve their productivity and income .”

However , the involvement of LGM in Sabah ’ s agricultural sector goes beyond technology and training . The organisation serves as a crucial platform for the advancement of rubber cultivation in the state , particularly for smallholders .

“ Our presence in Sabah is vital , not only for transferring technology but also for building the technical capacity of smallholders and agencies involved in the rubber industry .”

LGM ’ s participation in this year ’ s SAEX 2024 expo was a calculated move to raise awareness about the organisation ’ s role and the technologies it offers . Jumadi highlighted that the expo provided an excellent opportunity for LGM to showcase its work to the public and strengthen its presence in Sabah . agriculture while adhering to ESG standards ,” he said .

This initiative is part of a broader trend towards sustainable farming , which is slowly gaining traction in the region .

SUSTAINABLE GROWTH

In terms of opportunities , Faizal sees immense potential in Sabah ’ s agricultural sector . With government support and a push towards modernisation , the region is poised for significant growth .

“ There ’ s a lot of support from both the government and federal agencies , which is encouraging for anyone in the agriculture sector ,” he said .

Faizal also pointed out the diverse approaches to agriculture in Malaysia . While some regions are exploring indoor farming and IoT integration , others , like Sabah , are still capitalising on the availability of vast agricultural lands .

Faizal advised : “ We need to approach this holistically , deploying solutions based on the specific needs of each area .”

Reflecting on SAEX 2024 , Faizal highlighted the value of focused exhibitions .

“ Although this is a smaller exhibition compared to larger ones like MAHA or MIHAS , it offers a great platform for exhibitors to connect with a targeted audience ,” he observed .

He praised the event for its emphasis on agriculture , which allows for meaningful interactions and discussions without the distraction of unrelated industries .

Jumadi Shari ( right ) demonstrating rubber tapping

“ We aim to educate the public and expand our reach in Sabah , especially since the region has significant potential in rubber cultivation ,” he said .

Despite the decline in the prominence of rubber in Malaysia due to global competition and technological advancements , LGM remains committed to revitalising the industry in Sabah .

“ There is still a lot of rubber in Sabah , and our goal is to ensure that smallholders know how to make the most of it to improve their livelihoods ,” Jumadi concluded . – @ AGROBIz