KUCHING: The oil palm harvesting machine developed by the Sarawak government is poised to become a global innovation, positioning Sarawak as a major player in the palm oil industry.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg explained that the tractor, produced by Sarawak Plantation Berhad (SPB), has already secured a patent and is ready to enter the global market.
He explained that the base technology is already in place, with only periodic improvements needed to enhance its efficiency.
“Palm oil is produced not only in Malaysia but also across Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, and even in Africa. This machine will become a global solution.
“We just need to refine its efficiency, and this must be handled by a dedicated company. That’s why we’re involving the private sector as equity shareholders, while the Sarawak government will also play a role. This is something new,” he said.
He made the remarks after officiating the Palm Oil Technology Transfer Programme (TOT) at the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) here, today (Oct 14).
During his speech, Abang Johari shared that SPB took over four years and an investment of RM5 million to develop the machine.
Initially, he said, many were sceptical, believing that harvesting oil palm bunches required only manual labour.
“But I took it as a challenge. Over four years, we kept trying, and despite some failures, we continued to improve. Now, I can see that Sarawak Plantation has succeeded.
“This tractor can harvest oil palm bunches, and within just two minutes, it can load 1.2 tonnes of fruit into its bin for processing.
“So, the money I allocated was well worth it,” he quipped.
Abang Johari noted that this technological advancement reflects a strong determination to revolutionise the palm oil industry.
With this innovation, he assured that the local industry will no longer rely heavily on foreign labour.
He also highlighted the importance of waste management in the palm oil industry, noting the potential to recycle by-products, such as turning waste into fertiliser.
Additionally, Abang Johari mentioned that he had commissioned the Tropical Peat Research Institute (TROPI) to study the cultivation of oil palms on peat soils.
For areas with deep peat, he suggested intercropping with Napier grass, which could serve as a valuable resource.
“Napier grass can be used as pellet feed for livestock, particularly cattle, as they consume this type of grass. This opens up opportunities for cattle farming.
“In Bintulu, we have exported 2.5 tonnes of Napier grass as feedstock to a power plant, and we are even exporting it to the United Kingdom (UK).
“This means that palm oil and grass can both generate revenue. I hope those involved in this sector will continue to innovate and add value to various aspects of the palm oil industry,” he said.
