Progress and trends in field mechanisation
1999
Nielsen, A. (Howard Alatpertanian Sdn Bhd, 7482, Jalan Dua, Taman Selayang Baru, P O Box 8, 68107 Batu Caves, Selangor (Malaysia))
Farm equipment developed in the West, such as tractors, ploughs, tillers, spreaders, sprayers etc. gained early acceptance by Malaysian planters. With minor modifications, such equipment from the backbone of today's plantation mechanisation. Indigenous machinery development has been dismal, however, for a number of reasons. The local machinery trade is small and fragmented, and is uncertain of the plantation sector's commitment to costly R&D, as long as a manual solution is still a viable alternative. Higher demands to operational efficiency, new environmental requirements and specific customer expectations - will lead to pressure on planters, to improve methods, and make use of new technology and best agricultural practices. Machinery manufactures are keen to participate in this process. Though their recently formed association, MAMMDA, priorities and development efforts could be coordinated with the plantation sector. A viable and innovative machinery industry is essential - in support of a world-class edible oil industry. It is a paradox that while the latter is immensely profitable, the former is struggling and contracting. Commitment and funds are required - if the machinery industry is to become the true partner the plantations need, to move up to a higher level of mechanisation.
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