September-October . 2024 | @ AGROBiz

Cutting-edge AI and satellite technology will enhance crop yields and sustainability in Malaysia

In a significant step forward , recently , Malaysia ’ s leading agrochemical company , Ancom Crop Care Sdn Bhd ( ACC ), has partnered with Germany-based chemicals marketer HELM AG to introduce satellite and artificial intelligence ( AI ) -driven precision farming technologies .

The memorandum of understanding ( MoU ), witnessed by Agriculture and Food Securities Deputy Minister Datuk Arthur Joseph Kurup and exchanged between Managing Director of Ancom Crop Care Datuk Lee Cheun Wei and SPCI HELM Marketing and Project Director Yves-Florian Wolf during the MoU Document Exchange at MAHA 2024 , marked the beginning of a collaboration aimed at revolutionising local agriculture , particularly in paddy fields .

“ This partnership is a gamechanger for Malaysian farmers . By using satellite data , we can now monitor crops more precisely , diagnose diseases faster , and improve yields more effectively ,” said Lee , emphasising the importance of this initiative .

NEW STRIDES

At the heart of this collaboration are HELM ’ s SKYFLD platform and PLANTIX mobile app , two innovative technologies that offer data-driven solutions for farmers .

SKYFLD , powered by satellite imagery , monitors crop health and provides a detailed overview of growth patterns . It allows farmers to identify areas needing attention , whether for pest control or fertiliser application .

“ Farmers will see where their fields need attention and can make informed decisions about crop protection and fertilisers , reducing waste and improving output ,” said Wolf .

PLANTIX , on the other hand , utilises artificial intelligence to diagnose plant diseases , pests , and nutrient deficiencies . Farmers can upload a photo of their crop , and the

( From left ): Datuk Lee Chuen Wei , Datuk Arthur Joseph Kurup and Yves-Florian Wolf .

AI delivers a diagnosis along with a tailored treatment plan .

Wolf explained : “ The app functions like a doctor for crops , offering precise recommendations to avoid unnecessary expenses .”

ACC ’ s Chief Operating Officer , Anthony Tan Swee Hock , elaborated on how these tools are being applied in Malaysia .

“ SKYFLD and PLANTIX are designed to give farmers more control over their fields .

“ For example , instead of blanket spraying pesticides , farmers can pinpoint affected areas and target treatments , saving both time and resources , as this precision reduces the environmental impact and makes farming more sustainable ,” Tan said .

SUPPORTING FOOD SECURITY AND SUSTAINABILITY

This collaboration aligns closely with Malaysia ’ s food security and sustainability goals .

ACC will work with the Ministry of Science , Technology , and Innovation ( MOSTI ) and the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security ( MAFS ) to integrate these technologies into the local farming landscape .

As the technology gains traction , it is expected to help improve crop yields , reduce waste , and promote sustainable farming practices , all while supporting the government ’ s broader agricultural goals .

“ HELM offered the technology free to farmers last year , and now we hope to expand this through coordinated efforts with the ministries ,” said Lee , referencing an earlier partnership between ACC ’ s parent company , Ancom Nylex Bhd , Mimos Bhd , and HELM .

With the introduction of these innovative platforms , Malaysian farmers now have access to powerful tools that not only boost efficiency but also contribute to long-term agricultural sustainability . As precision farming becomes more widespread , it holds the potential to elevate Malaysia ’ s position in global agriculture .

AS GLOBAL agriculture faces increasing pressure to balance productivity with environmental stewardship , Ancom Crop Care ( ACC ) is stepping up with practical , technology-driven solutions .

This Malaysian company is transforming the farming sector by integrating advanced crop management technologies that prioritise both efficiency and sustainability .

ACC ’ s Chief Operating Officer , Anthony Tan Swee Hock , plays a crucial role in this transformation . “ Our mission is to advance agricultural practices while staying committed to environmental sustainability ,” Tan explained .

His leadership ensures that ACC ’ s initiatives not only enhance productivity but also support ecological balance .

ACC ’ s approach includes cutting-edge crop management solutions designed to improve yields without expanding farmland .

By focusing on weed control and minimising environmental impact , ACC helps preserve crucial ecosystems and reduce the need for new land .

The company is also dedicated to educating farmers on sustainable practices , further supporting its goal of responsible herbicide use .

Leading the company ’ s business development efforts , Mohd Shahimi Yang Hapizi highlighted the integration of Industry 4.0 technologies such as remote sensing and satellite imaging .

“ Our collaboration with the Ministry of Science , Technology ,

Shahimi ( 2nd left ): Ancom & HELM with a farmer during a trial with Skyfld software and drone .

and Innovation ( MOSTI ) and the Ministry of Agriculture ( MOA ) is crucial in bringing these innovations to Malaysian farmers ,” said Shahimi .

“ Ongoing trials and partnerships aim to demonstrate how these technologies can enhance farming practices and strengthen food security .”

As these advancements gain traction , they are expected to enhance farming practices and contribute positively to both productivity and environmental care . By advancing crop management practices and focusing on sustainability , ACC is setting a new standard in the industry . – @ AGROBiz