chapter 6 - Malaysia Productivity Corporation ( MPC)

Precision farming is an innovative method to optimise resources. It is a management system based primarily
on a combination of information technologies including network computing, satellite monitoring
and automated guidance systems for farm machinery. Precision farming can save time and energy by
reducing unnecessary application of chemicals and irrigation leading to a more ecological farming with
higher yields. Chemical inputs, particularly fertilisers and pesticides when applied, using the precision
agriculture approach could reduce load accumulation and disposition. As a result, the undesirable effects of
excess chemical loading to the environment leading to soil and water contamination and productivity
loss due to insufficient inputs application can be averted.
Biofertilisers are used to improve the fertility of the land using biological wastes. It does not contain any
chemicals which are detrimental to the living soil. They are extremely beneficial in enriching the soil with
those micro-organisms which produce organic nutrients for the soil and help combat diseases. The farm
produce does not contain traces of hazardous and poisonous materials.
Biopesticides are certain types of pesticides derived from such natural materials such as animals, plants,
bacteria and certain minerals. Biopesticides are usually inherently less toxic than conventional pesticides
and generally affect only the target pest and closely related organisms in contrast to broad spectrum
conventional pesticides that may affect organisms.
The successful use of agriculture wastes such as rice straws and husks, empty oil palm fruit bunches, saw
dust, animal droppings are also positive steps undertaken to reduce the dependence on chemicals. This
is a move towards more natural and healthier methods of food production and to optimise the use of
resources on a sustainable basis. Integrated and mixed farming is one successful way of optimising the
use of resources for maximising income.
Food safety is an attribute that is increasingly being demanded by consumers. The authority has responded
to food safety and quality by establishing a Quality Assurance Programme for primary producers by
introducing the Farm Accreditation Scheme of Malaysia (SALM) in 2002 and the Malaysian Organic
Scheme (SOM) in 2003. The SOM accords recognition to farmers who cultivate crops according to the
requirements outlined in the National Organic Standard, MS 1529. This standard on organic production is
modelled after the FAO/WHO Codex Alimentarius Commission Guidelines and IFOAM Organic Standard.
Prof Dr Mad Nasir Shamsudin
Dean, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia
Productivity Report 2011/2012
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