GEORGE TOWN: Digitalising farming methods will enable the agriculture sector to contribute more to the nation's gross domestic product (GDP), Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo said.

Gobind said the country's agriculture sector contributed 7.2 per cent to the nation's GDP in the second quarter of the year.

He said this was a huge jump as the sector had contributed 1.7 per cent in the first quarter of the year.

"By digitalising farming methods, I am confident the agriculture sector will be able to contribute more to the nation's GDP," he said here today at the launch of the collaboration between BoomGrow Productions Sdn Bhd and CelcomDigi Bhd to pioneer advanced and sustainable agriculture, leveraging 5G, artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies.

Gobind said a November 2021 report from EY entitled "Estimating the economic impact of the Single Wholesale 5G Network in Malaysia" projected a 2.6 per cent increase in the sector's GDP contribution in 2030.

"That is equivalent to a RM3.5 billion incremental uplift.

"Now, the Madani government is rolling out the second 5G network. This move will boost the contributions of all sectors, including agriculture, to the nation."

He said his ministry was playing its part in encouraging modern farming.

He said the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), an agency under his ministry, had carried out the Malaysia Digital AgTech initiative.

He said it was carried out in collaboration with stakeholders and ecosystem partners to digitally empower the national agriculture sector.

"By integrating digital technologies such as IoT, Big Data Analytics, AI and DroneTech, Malaysia Digital AgTech aims to boost productivity, quality and income, as well as reduce operating costs, optimise plantations and foster further participation.

"Some of the Digital AgTech pilot projects include smart fertigation, smart water monitoring and drone technology.

"Ultimately, such an initiative will boost the nation's digital economy," he said.

For today's event, under this partnership, CelcomDigi leverages its 5G connectivity, supported by ZTE, to enhance BoomGrow Machine Farms' capabilities and efficiencies.

The integration of 5G technology with AI and XR enables real-time monitoring, precise control of farming environments and predictive analytics, leading to increased crop yields and overall resource efficiency.

Data from all the Machine Farms across the country are consolidated into a centralised dashboard, allowing for seamless oversight and management.

This is enabled by CelcomDigi's fastest and widest network in Malaysia, ensuring reliable and comprehensive connectivity across all Machine Farms.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/08/1098408/agriculture-sector-contribute-more-nations-gdp-through-digitalising