Modern Technology Drives Pepper Crop Productivity In Julau
JULAU: The adoption of modern technology in pepper crop management has the potential to improve production efficiency and productivity among smallholders, while supporting efforts to strengthen the country’s commodity industry.
The matter was highlighted during a working visit by Minister of Plantation and Commodities Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad to the pepper farm owned by Nalong Jantan in Nanga Langu here on Friday.
Also present was Deputy Minister of Plantation and Commodities, who is also Sarikei Member of Parliament and Repok Assemblyman, Dato’ Sri Huang Tiong Sii.
The visit provided an opportunity for her to observe first-hand the use of technology and innovation at farm level, which can assist smallholders in managing their crops more systematically and improving production yields.
Among the technologies showcased were the Dr.Lada application, the Piperspectral Project, and the use of drones to monitor crop conditions and provide information to support more effective farm management.
The use of fertigation systems, the Internet of Things (IoT), and fertilisation methods were also demonstrated as modern approaches to optimise crop care and the use of agricultural inputs.
Mechanisation was another key focus, with demonstrations of pepper processing equipment at farm level, including the Pepper Thresher and Spiral Separator, which can simplify produce handling and reduce reliance on traditional methods.
During the ground engagement session, the delegation also had the opportunity to hear directly from smallholders on their challenges and needs, particularly regarding farm management, productivity improvement and efforts to increase income.
The discussions with farmers provided an overview of the actual conditions of pepper cultivation on the ground, while helping to ensure that the technologies and innovations introduced are suitable to the needs of pepper growers.
The programme concluded with a symbolic pepper harvesting ceremony, highlighting the potential of technology in improving operational efficiency and produce handling at farm level. -UKASnews
