KENINGAU – The Science, Technology, and Innovation Ministry is striving to develop an ecosystem for the agricultural application of drone technology to help increase farmers’ incomes.
Its deputy minister Datuk Arthur Joseph Kurup said this could increase yields, reduce dependence on migrant workers, and provide farming job opportunities, especially in rural areas.
“From studies conducted, the use of drones in the agricultural sector can provide accurate information to farmers in the use of pesticides and fertilisers as well as the health status of crops.
“This allows an increase in crop productivity of around 30% and a reduction in operating costs by 20% and, thus, contribute to an increase in the income of farmers,” he said in a statement today.
He said that science, technology, and innovation had huge potential and could offer the best solutions, including in the agriculture and plantation sectors.
He added that the government, through the ministry, is committed to cooperating with various related parties to adapt effective technology solutions, ensuring food security at a reasonable cost. – Bernama, April 30, 2023