MPIC Aims to Overcome Labour Shortage with Mechanisation and Automation
Kuala Lumpur: The Ministry of Plantation and Commodities (MPIC) is set to focus on mechanisation and automation to address the tight labour supply in the palm oil industry.
Mechanisation and Automation: The Future of the Palm Oil Industry
According to Deputy Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Chan Foong Hin, the industry needs to undergo a transition period to overcome the labour shortage issue. The government does not plan to rely on foreign labour, and instead, is looking at alternatives.
"Over the long term, we should aim for more mechanisation and automation," said Chan. "In Budget 2025, the government has also provided incentives to encourage industry players to adopt more mechanisation and automation, so that’s the plan going forward."
Exception on Foreign Labour Quota
Regarding the need for an exception on foreign labour quota, Chan noted that it depends on the urgency and the industry’s feedback. "The one-time exception for the quota was given for around 60,000 workers last year, but for this year it depends on the industry feedback whether it’s urgent or not," he said.
Malaysia’s Biodiesel Mandate Delay
Commenting on Indonesia’s biodiesel B40 mandate delay, Chan said that Malaysia does not have the urgency to consume more palm oil for biodiesel as the country focuses more on exporting the commodity. "Although Malaysia and Indonesia have their differences on the sector, we rely highly on export activities," he added. "Witnessing the export increase last year, I think there is no urgency to consume more palm oil as part of biodiesel."
Conclusion
In conclusion, the MPIC’s move towards mechanisation and automation is a significant step towards addressing the labour shortage in the palm oil industry. With the government’s incentives and industry players’ adoption of automation, the industry is expected to see significant improvements in the long term.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the government’s plan to address the labour shortage in the palm oil industry?
A: The government aims to focus on mechanisation and automation to overcome the issue.
Q: Will the government rely on foreign labour to address the shortage?
A: No, the government does not plan to rely on foreign labour.
Q: How will the government address the need for an exception on foreign labour quota?
A: The need for an exception on foreign labour quota depends on the urgency and the industry’s feedback.
Q: What is Malaysia’s stance on Indonesia’s biodiesel B40 mandate delay?
A: Malaysia does not have the urgency to consume more palm oil for biodiesel as the country focuses more on exporting the commodity.