Exploring Mechanization Degree and Capacity in Malaysia’s Oil Palm Plantations

Abstract

Development of mechanization is a crucial element in oil palm plantations in Malaysia since its significant role in reducing of highly dependence on manual workers. Nonetheless, the recent mechanization degree and capacity in oil palm plantations in this country is still rarely studied.  This study aims to determine the mechanization degree and capacity in oil palm plantations in Malaysia. Determining mechanization degree and mechanization capacity were computed based on the available secondary data from a recently survey on 4541 oil palm estates in Malaysia.  The findings showed that average mechanization degree and capacity of field operations in Malaysia’s oil palm plantations were 10.88% and 11.04%, respectively, and considered as low when compared to the achievement of the mechanization of others several crops either in local or other countries. Conclusively, intensive promotion of mechanization in the oil palm plantations are urgently needed to enhance mechanization degree and capacity in this sector.