24 INDUSTRY

• B. A .S .E. integrates soil science, biotechnology, and customised fertiliser applications, specifically designed to suit Malaysian soil conditions and lower long-term production costs.

• Briar and Behn Meyer are also working on AI-driven fertiliser analytics, using geospatial data to support precision farming and strengthen Malaysia’s food security goals.

• Pilot projects have shown promising results, including stronger root systems, higher yields, and more resilient crops, particularly in paddy and oil palm fields.

Syed Razlan highlighted the importance of integrating technology with practical farming solutions, saying: “ We are not just providing a fertiliser product; B.A.S.E. is a smart agricultural system designed to improve efficiency and sustainability on the ground,

BY ADELINE ANTHONY ALPHONSO

A SOIL-FIRST APPROACH

“The product’s design simplifies application, whether by drone, blower, or manual spreader, with formulas customised to match real soil data. The transport-and storage-friendly packaging also reduces logistical challenges faced by farmers.”

B.A.S.E. goes beyond conventional fertilisers by adopting a soil-first approach explicitly designed to revive degraded soils and support healthier crop development.

Resources Sdn Bhd has launched a new fertiliser initiative aimed at improving soil health and crop productivity among Malaysian farmers, particularly in the paddy sector.

The agreement focuses on developing AI-driven fertiliser analytics that leverage geospatial technology. This system will provide farmers with real-time data and predictive insights to improve fertiliser decisions, enhancing yield while protecting soil health.

It focuses on two key objectives: enhancing the efficiency of plants’ nutrient uptake and rebuilding long-term soil resilience.The technology ’s formulation incorporates beneficial microorganisms and bioactive compounds that improve nutrient availability and reduce reliance on chemical inputs.

Complementing the fertiliser product is Briar’s digital platform, e-TRACE, which offers traceability through QR codes,allowing users to authenticate products, track usage locations,and facilitate transparent distribution of subsidies.

The solution, known as B.A.S.E. (Briar ’s Advanced & Sustainable Series for Excellence) was developed in a strategic partnership with Behn Meyer AgriCare (M) Sdn Bhd and introduced during a launch event held at Dewan Seri Bernam, Sabak Bernam, on May 2, 2025.

DIGITAL INTEGRATION

Unlike traditional fertilisers that often emphasise quantity over quality, B.A.S.E. tailors nutrient application to the specific needs of different crops and soil conditions.

This system supports more effective subsidy management and can integrate with financial institutions, such as AgroBank, to establish reward systems for farmers.

The collaboration exemplifies a broader strategy to merge innovation with farmer-centric solutions. Rather than replacing traditional knowledge, these technologies aim to enhance farmers’ decisionmaking capabilities by providing accurate and actionable data.

The event saw the presence of key representatives, including Datuk Izham Hashim (Selangor EXCO for Infrastructure and Agriculture ), Datuk Seri Syed Razlan Jamalullail (Executive Chairman of Briar Resources), Wayne Lai Soon (Chief executive officer of Briar Resources), and Teo Tee Seng (Managing director of Behn Meyer AgriCare).

This precision enables better crop response and a reduced environmental impact. By restoring the natural balance within the soil, the technology supports sustained productivity and reduces fertiliser wastage.

Behn Meyer AgriCare plays a critical role in the B.A.S.E. project, contributing expertise in soil biology and sustainable farming methods.Teo emphasised the shift from conventional fertiliser practices , explaining that “fertiliser is no longer just NPK.It’s about ensuring your soil remains alive,and your plants are healthy.”

Briar Resources is positioning B.A.S.E. as a long-term solution aligned with Malaysia’s goal to increase rice self-sufficiency from 56.2 per cent in 2023 to 75 per cent by 2025 and beyond.

ADOPTION IN THE FIELD

Trials using B.A.S.E. in oil palm and paddy fields have shown promising results. Farmers have observed stronger root systems, healthier plant growth, and increased resistance to environmental stressors.

By addressing both productivity and sustainability,B.A.S.E.supports a more resilient food supply chain and contributes to national food security.

This philosophy supports the training programme accompanying B.A.S.E., which aim to educate farmers on fertiliser behaviour, soil management, and optimal application timing.

The company also plans to expand the availability of B.A.S.E. across various agricultural sectors in Malaysia while continuing to provide farmers with education and technical support to ensure the correct and effective use of the technology. - @AGROBiz

Additionally, B.A.S.E.’s use has led to reduced fertiliser reapplication rates and more consistent yields, addressing common issues of soil fatigue and nutrient deficiency in Malaysian farms.

To further advance precision agriculture, Briar Resources and Behn Meyer AgriCare signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at MAHA Go Global in September 2024.