SARAWAK Plantation Berhad ( SPB ) recently launched the “ Lipan ,” a mechanised harvester set to transform the region ’ s oil palm industry .

Launched at Subis Plantation , the Lipan was demonstrated by Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg , who emphasised that this innovation tackles both labour shortages and efficiency , marking a crucial shift away from heavy manual labour .

During the event , Abang Johari observed how the Lipan could remotely harvest and load fresh fruit bunches ( FFBs ) in just two minutes , achieving speed and efficiency that surpasses manual labour .

Moreover , mechanisation is a strategic move to reduce dependence on foreign labour , especially as neighbouring countries retain their workforce to meet domestic demands .

Addressing the bureaucratic hurdles , Abang Johari also noted that obtaining foreign labour can take up to eight months due to lengthy

Abang Johari ( front row , second left ) looks at the Lipan in action .

immigration processes , causing frustration within the industry .

Mechanisation like the Lipan offers a practical solution , enhancing productivity while minimising human errors that lead to damaged fruit bunches . The Lipan , capable of harvesting up to 300 fresh fruit bunches ( FFBs ) daily , also opens possibilities for further innovation .

He said : “ Earlier , I witnessed how this machine efficiently harvests FFBs using remote control , collecting the fruits at speed and placing them into a bin .

“ I timed the process ; it takes just two minutes to harvest and load 1.2 tonnes .”

Abang Johari also suggested adding more arms to the machine for trimming palm leaves , which could then be repurposed into biomass for power generation , creating additional revenue streams for SPB .

SPB ’ s Executive Chairman , Datuk Amar Abdul Hamed Sepawi , shared that the Lipan ’ s development began in 2015 , overcoming multiple design challenges before reaching a breakthrough in 2018 with a more efficient cutter .

Now capable of harvesting 38 bunches per hour , the Lipan achieves productivity of around three tonnes per day , offering a promising solution for the industry ’ s future .

THE BORNEO POST

IN JUST 24 hours , 40 tonnes of fresh Malaysian durians sold out in China , underscoring the fruit ’ s popularity among Chinese consumers . The first batch , which arrived on August 26 , was available at select outlets across six regions , including Beijing , Shanghai , and Guangzhou .

Malaysia ’ s Ambassador to China , Datuk Norman Muhamad , attributed the quick sales to the durians ’ freshness and high quality , noting they were entirely sold out by the end of the launch event .

The recent export included premium varieties like Musang King , Black Thorn , and D24 , all prized for their rich flavour and texture .

Following this successful debut , the Malaysian government is exploring ways to expand air cargo services to ensure more frequent deliveries of fresh durians to China . However , transporting durians comes with challenges , as they must reach customers within 36 hours to retain optimal freshness and avoid spoilage .

Norman emphasised that Malaysia ’ s durian exporters are well-positioned to seize this growing market opportunity . The government ’ s efforts to improve transportation options would help meet demand , particularly as fresh durians continue to attract fans in China who appreciate the fruit ’ s distinctive taste and creamy texture .