AI, the drones that will transform SALCRA for the next 50 years

KUCHING, 13 Oct: The use of artificial intelligence (AI), drones and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies have the potential to be major drivers of transformation of Sarawak's palm oil plantation industry over the next 50 years.

Sarawak Premier, Datuk Tinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said that technological advancements enable the Sarawak Land Association and Restoration Board (SALCRA) to increase farm productivity, analyze crop yield potential and plan replanting programs more systematically.

According to him, a modern planting approach needs to take advantage of the latest technologies including the use of drones for forecasting work, tree condition analysis and research into the genetic characteristics of palm oil to identify yield potential.

"50 years ago, we didn't have drone technology, the Internet of Things (IoT) or the technology to analyze palm oil DNA.

"However, all those technologies are now available", he said at the SALCRA 50 Years of Sowing, Growing, Prosper Golden Jubilee Dinner here last night.

Brother Johari explained that AI technology can also be used to help analyze the condition of palm trees, estimate yield potential and determine replanting needs especially for aging trees.

He also stressed the importance of appropriate use of new seedlings to ensure that farms remain productive and are able to give higher returns to SALCRA participants.

"This means that over the next 50 years, we have methods and technologies to increase the value of palm oil crops, whether they are old trees that need to be replanted or existing ones", he said.

He believes that the use of such technology will help to increase the economic value of land and crops, thus providing a brighter future for the communities involved in SALCRA's development.

In this regard, Brother Johari wanted the success of SALCRA over the past five decades to be the foundation for taking the organization to a higher level through the application of modern innovation and technology.

The transformation, he said, will not only enhance the competitiveness of the farm sector but also enable rural communities, especially Dayak communities, to play a greater role in the modern Sarawak economic development. - TVS