World’s First AI-Powered Palm Oil Mill Launched in Malaysia
The world’s first palm oil mill utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) technology has been launched in Kuala Kangsar, Malaysia, marking a significant advancement for the palm oil industry. The initiative was unveiled by Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani at Minsawi Industries Kuala Kangsar Sdn Bhd, in collaboration with technology provider Airei Sdn Bhd. The incorporation of AI technology, which includes sensors and predictive tools, aims to enhance efficiency and reduce operational costs in palm oil processing.
The mill, which has been in operation for 41 years, invested between MYR 4 million (USD 0.89 million) and MYR 5 million (USD 1.11 million) to integrate this smart technology. Minister Johari noted that the implementation of AI could decrease the reliance on foreign labor by 30% to 35%, potentially reducing the need for nearly 8,000 foreign workers across Malaysia’s 446 palm oil mills if widely adopted. He emphasized the importance of monitoring the effectiveness of this technology every three months to ensure its sustainability and efficiency.
In addition to the technological advancements, Johari announced regulatory changes that would facilitate Orang Asli smallholders in obtaining licenses to sell oil palm fruits without needing land grants. This move aims to ease the burden on smallholders while ensuring compliance with sustainable practices. The palm oil sector remains crucial for Malaysia’s economy, generating over MYR 100 billion (USD 22.21 billion) in export value annually, necessitating careful management and innovation within the industry.
(Source: The Star)
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