July-August . 2024 | @ AGROBiz

Sabah Softwoods Hybrid Fertiliser is here to boost eco-friendly farming

SILENT revolution is underway in the agricultural sector of Sabah ’ s lush landscapes . Sabah Softwoods Hybrid Fertiliser ( SSHF ) is a pioneering company that is revolutionising the use of fertilisers in Malaysia , and it is at the heart of this transformation .

REDEFINED APPROACH

Shazmin Izhar , the Deputy General Manager of SSHF , provided a glimpse into the company ’ s groundbreaking approach .

“ We ’ re a biotech fertiliser company resulting from a joint venture between Yayasan Sabah and All Cosmos Bio-Tech Holding Corporation ,” he explained .

“ Our flagship brand , Real Strong , integrates NPK , organic materials , and a diverse range of over 600 microbes tailored for various agricultural needs .”

This unique blend of technology and nature aims to address one of the most pressing issues in modern agriculture : sustainability . Tradi-

Shazmin Izhar

tional chemical fertilisers have long been the mainstay , but their impact on soil health and environmental quality has raised concerns . SSHF ’ s innovative approach seeks to alleviate these issues by reducing the reliance on chemical inputs and enhancing soil biodiversity .

Shazmin noted : “ Our focus is on creating fertilisers that not only boost crop yields but also contribute to a healthier environment .

“ We have conducted numerous trials , endorsed by government

agencies , proving that our organic and microbial solutions can complement conventional fertilisers , reducing their overall usage .”

The impact of SSHF ’ s products is evident across major plantations in Sabah , including Sabah Softwood Berhad , Sawit Kinabalu , and FELDA .

“ These plantations are committed to sustainability and are increasingly adopting our biotech solutions to minimise chemical use .

“ Our data shows that after decades of chemical use , soil health has deteriorated , leading to stagnant or even declining yields . Our fertilisers help restore soil health and improve overall productivity ,” Shazmin added .

As Sabah ’ s agricultural landscape evolves , so does the market ’ s emphasis on sustainability . Shazmin highlighted the growing trend towards Environmental , Social , and Governance ( ESG ) criteria , mainly from European markets .

“ In the future , our products will include information on greenhouse gas emissions ,” he said . “ We are

committed to offering solutions that contribute minimally to environmental impact .”

The 2024 Sabah Agro Expo ( SAEX 2024 ) provided SSHF with an excellent platform to showcase its advancements .

“ This is our second time at the expo , and the response has been fantastic ,

“ We ’ ve met international visitors who are eager to learn about our environmentally friendly fertilisers . It ’ s an opportunity to position ourselves as ambassadors for sustainable biotech solutions .”

ONE STEP AT A TIME

Shazmin envisions continued progress in the sector .

“ Next year , we hope to see more focus on sustainable practices and green approaches in agriculture . Events like this are crucial for raising awareness and promoting technological advancements .”

In essence , SSHF represents more than just a local business ; it embodies a significant stride towards a greener and more sustainable future in agriculture . Based in Lahad Datu , it stands out as Sabah ’ s sole bio-fertiliser company , playing a pivotal role in transforming the agricultural landscape with innovative and environmentally friendly solutions .

THE 2024 Sabah Agro Expo ( SAEX ) brought together some of the region ’ s most influential players . Among them was Sawit Kinabalu Group , a name synonymous with palm oil production in Sabah , yet one that has increasingly become associated with agricultural diversification and innovation .

Stephen Augustine Lansing , who heads the mechanisation and automation division at Sawit Kinabalu Group , shared insights into the company ’ s current initiatives and future direction during the expo .

“ This year , we ’ re putting a spotlight on our cattle farm products ,” he shared , noting that their cattle operations , which are the largest in Sabah with around 15,000 head , are a significant part of their diversification strategy .

“ Alongside live cattle , Sawit Kinabalu is also venturing into downstream products like meatballs , showing a clear intent to tap into various facets of the food industry .”

Sawit Kinabalu ’ s operations are primarily based in Tawau , Sabah , where they operate a central laboratory that serves both their internal needs and external clients . The lab is involved in various types of sampling , including food , soil , and water testing .

“ We have a lot of seedlings - not just palm oil , but durian , pineapple , and even fruit juice production ,” Lansing mentioned , underscoring Sawit Kinabalu ’ s efforts to diversify and explore new markets .

The theme of diversification extends to their foray into rice cultivation , driven by the government ’ s push for food security . With the current market trends in mind , Lansing said that they have started with 100 hectares and are planning to expand to 2,000 hectares and eventually 10,000 hectares . This gradual expansion is part of a broader strategy to bolster Malaysia ’ s food security , a national priority that Sawit Kinabalu Group is keen to support .

Reflecting on their experience at SAEX 2024 , Lansing emphasised

Stephen Augustine Lansing

the importance of the expo as a platform for exposure , particularly for their newer ventures like electric vehicles ( EVs ) in agriculture .

“ We ’ re bringing EVs to the agricultural sector , especially for palm oi .

While some remain sceptical about EVs ’ role in such a heavy-duty industry , Lansing is confident that the lower running costs and simpler components will eventually win over the market ,” he explained .

However , Lansing also recognised a need for greater outreach . “ A lot of people are still unaware of what we ’ re doing here ,” he admitted , pointing out that better promotion could help not just Sawit Kinabalu but other exhibitors as well . He believes that more visibility , both online and on the ground , could significantly boost the expo ’ s impact .

Looking forward , Lansing expressed a desire for greater outreach at future expos .

“ We need to let more people know because I think a lot of people are still unaware of what we are doing here . – @ AGROBiz