Indonesia and Malaysia implement technology to boost rice yields

Agricultural sectors in Indonesia and Malaysia are implementing technological advancements and subsidy programs to boost rice productivity and food security.

In Indonesia, the Ministry of Agriculture is expanding access to subsidized seeds, targeting at least 1 million hectares by 2027. Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman stated that the implementation of the Advanced Agriculture System (PM-AAS) and direct seeding methods could increase yields from the conventional 5–6 tons per hectare to between 10–13 tons per hectare. This initiative aims to significantly increase national grain production.

In Malaysia, Padiberas Nasional Berhad (BERNAS) is adopting smart farming technologies to transform the rice industry. These include the use of artificial intelligence, soil scanners for rapid pH and CEC testing, autonomous planters, and drones for seeding, fertilization, and disease control. Dr. Nur Firdaus Mohamed Yusof noted that these digital tools allow for much faster soil assessment compared to traditional laboratory methods, ensuring timely soil treatment and optimized planting cycles.