The need for standardization of soil survey methodology in Malaysia
1997
Paramananthan, S.
Soil surveys have been carried out in Malaysia since the 1930`s. Due to historical and political reasons Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak have been using different methodologies, terminologies and soil classification systems. It is more than thirty years since Malaysia has been formed and yet although there has been a lot of talk developing a standard set of soil survey methodologies and terminologies and eventually a Malaysian Soil Classification System, progress has been slow. This paper looks at the present methodology and terminology used in Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak and proposes a standard terminology and methodology for use in Malaysia. This is done by looking at the terminology and methodology used internationally and selecting what is relevant, applicable and modifying it for use in Malaysia. The paper also proposes a minimum set of site characteristics, soil characteristics and the minimum soil analytical data that need to be included in a soil report. The paper suggest that the Department of Agriculture in Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak be a central authority that collates all soil survey work carried out in each respective region. To achieve this a copy all soil survey reports must be deposited with the respective department. The Department of Agriculture on the other hand must also be prepared to make available all the data collected to any person who wishes to use it. Since soil survey today is carried out by both the Government, private organizations and statuory agencies, the paper suggests the Malaysian Society of Soil Science setup a Soil Survey, Genesis and Classification Working Group with the objective of achieving our target of developing a set of standard terminology and methodology and evolving a Malaysian Soil Classification System before the next millennium.
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