Smart Farming Redefines Agriculture For B40 Communities In Perlis

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In Perlis, a quiet revolution in farming is taking root. An oyster mushroom cultivation project, powered by Internet of Things (IoT) technology, is changing lives by boosting the income of B40 communities. Spearheaded by Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP), the project marries cutting-edge innovation with traditional farming to deliver impressive results.

Mushrooming Opportunities

“This is crucial as Perlis experiences extreme weather. The technology has enabled production to meet expectations of up to 480 kilogrammes of mushrooms per day,” said UniMAP Vice-Chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Zaliman Sauli during the project launch.

The ‘Driven for Community’ initiative, launched in 2021, involves 24 participants from Arau, Kangar, and Padang Besar. Funded through grants from the Perlis Bumiputera Entrepreneur Development Fund Programme, it equips participants with IoT systems to monitor and control crucial parameters like humidity, temperature, and water vapour in their mushroom houses. This precision farming approach helps them adapt to Perlis’ unpredictable weather and optimise yields.

By leveraging IoT, farmers have seen yield improvements exceeding 30%, with projections reaching 60% in the near future. Harvest cycles, traditionally lasting three months, have been shortened to two months, allowing participants to earn RM5,000 to RM6,000 per cycle.

Beyond cultivating fresh mushrooms, the project promotes diversification into downstream products like mushroom patties and recycling spent mushroom substrates into organic fertilisers.

Redefining Social Entrepreneurship

Bumiputera Agenda Steering Unit (TERAJU) senior director Mohd Najib Jaafar highlighted the project’s broader impact: “It not only enhances participants’ incomes but also empowers them to remain competitive in the economy and contribute to local community development.”

The collaboration between UniMAP, TERAJU, and the Economy Ministry demonstrates how strategic partnerships can uplift marginalised groups while fostering economic resilience. By combining IoT expertise and community engagement, this project transforms farming into a sustainable, forward-thinking enterprise.