Use IoT and AI to improve food security in Malaysia, says Dr Adham

GEORGE TOWN: The use of Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI) can help improve food security in Malaysia, says Datuk Seri Dr Adham Baba.

The Science, Technology and Innovation Minister said the ministry will assist farmers in using IoT and AI technology through collaborations with private and government agencies.

"We can see that there is an opportunity to improve the food supply in the country if farmers use our approach in smart farming opportunities.

"The use of vertical farming methods for instance also can give more space to farmers so that other crops can be planted," he said to reporters after launching the third edition of the MYStartup Roadshow tour series at Wisma Yap Chor Ee on Tuesday (May 24).

He said the ministry has plans about what other technologies farmers can use, especially one related to climate independence so that farmers know what to do with their farming product during drought or rainy season.

He said a collaborative effort between farmers, government and academicians will improve the food security in the country.

Dr Adham said this had been presented during the Cabinet meeting to discuss the cost of living and food supply issues on Monday (May 23).

He said during the meeting, the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry and Agriculture and Food Industries Ministry briefed the Cabinet on these issues, including short- and long-term plans to overcome the problems.

On Wednesday, Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob said the government had decided to abolish the approved permit (AP) for food imports with immediate effect as an effort to ease the pressure arising from food shortages.