The demand for mutton in this country has increased from 9160 t in 1993 to 15 570 t in 2003. Unfortunately, the production is far short of demand, with self-sufficiency of only 7% in 1993 and 8.4% in 2003. Imports to make up the deficit were valued at close to RM 90 million in 2003. Most […]

Yellow sugar cane (Saccharum offi cinarum) (Figure 1) is the most common variety grown in Malaysia. The main product from it is the juice. The juice is squeezed from the stems and drink fresh, usually served cold. The juice is also canned and commonly sold in restaurants and retail outlets throughout the country. Yellow sugar cane […]

Hill paddy (Oryzea sativa L.) (Figure 1) can be grown on wide range of soils, especially on sandy clay loam to clay loam. In general, it is grown in rain-fed areas, either on flat or sloping land. Although grown on dry land, it requires high moisture (rainfall of 250–200 mm per month) during its fi rst […]

Soyabean (Glysine max) (Figure 1) is a major source of protein for human and livestock. The average import of soyabean (broken and not broken) in 2002 to 2005 was 693 968 t yr-1 worth RM 719 991 178, mostly for livestock feed. The major human food products from soyabean are bean curd, soyabean drink and tempe. […]

Machinery and labour are the two major inputs in agriculture. Machines can be developed to help labour improve its productivity. There are two factors in maximizing profit, viz., increasing productivity and reducing cost. One way is to mechanize to improve productivity by reducing the labour required which can result in substantial cost saving. The Malaysian Palm […]