During a recent visit to the AI Technology-Based Aquaculture (Digital AgTech) site in Ayer Hitam, Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo highlighted the transformative potential of smart agriculture technology in revitalizing Malaysia’s agricultural sector. The adoption of these technologies, he said, is not only easing farming tasks for existing agri-entrepreneurs but also sparking interest among potential new entrants, thereby attracting more parties to venture into agriculture.
Gobind emphasized that the integration of digital technology, such as the Internet of Things (IoT), big data analysis, and artificial intelligence (AI), aligns with the Fourth Industrial Revolution policy. This shift has the potential to make agriculture more appealing and accessible, countering the traditional perceptions of the sector as dirty, dangerous, and difficult, with low returns on investment. “Our mission today is to change this perception and elevate the agricultural sector to a more modern and productive level through digital technology,” Gobind stated.
The Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) has been appointed by the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry as the National Digital Technology (Digital AgTech) strategic validator. This appointment is part of a broader initiative to support the digital transformation of the agricultural sector. MDEC’s digital agricultural system aims to enhance the use of digital technology in agriculture, facilitating the marketing of agricultural products and enabling farmers and agri-entrepreneurs to reach the market more swiftly and effectively.
Gobind further elaborated on the implications of this digital shift. “The use of this technology can also enhance the competitiveness of the country’s agricultural exports globally, thus helping Malaysia penetrate the international market with high-quality products,” he said. This digital transformation is not just about modernizing farming practices; it’s about positioning Malaysia as a leader in the global agricultural market, leveraging technology to produce high-quality products that can compete on an international scale.
The visit was part of the Malaysia Digital Tour, underscoring the government’s commitment to digital transformation across various sectors. As Malaysia undergoes rapid digital transformation, the integration of technology in agriculture is poised to boost the country’s competitiveness, accelerate economic growth, and open up new opportunities for the people. This initiative not only supports existing farmers but also invites new entrants, potentially transforming the agricultural landscape and attracting a new generation of agri-entrepreneurs.
