Two Perak districts' agriculture boosted by smart technology

By the Editorial Team · Wednesday, September 9, 2026

About 38 percent of hydroponic and fertigation farms in Perak’s Kinta and Kampar districts have adopted smart farming technologies such as IoT sensors and AI to improve efficiency and resource use. This move supports Perak’s broader strategy to modernize agriculture, including climate-controlled indoor farming and a shift to closed poultry systems, aiming to strengthen the state's role as a leading national food producer.

Approximately 38 percent of hydroponic and fertigation initiatives in the Kinta and Kampar districts of Perak have integrated smart farming technologies to enhance productivity and reduce operational costs. Datuk Mohd Zolkafly Harun, chairman of the Perak agriculture committee, detailed these advancements during a state assembly session at Bangunan Perak Darul Ridzuan in Ipoh on Tuesday.

The technologies adopted include the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence, electrical conductivity and pH level sensors, as well as automatic nutrient dispersal systems. These tools are helping farmers optimise growing conditions and resource use.

Through the State Agriculture Development Corporation, Perak is focusing on expanding Smart Indoor Farming within the Kinta Valley. One of the pilot projects involves a fully climate-controlled indoor farming system employing vertical farming techniques. This system manages factors such as lighting, temperature, humidity, nutrient delivery, and air quality, making it particularly suitable for urban areas with limited space, Mohd Zolkafly explained. The state is also exploring repurposing abandoned urban buildings to serve as modern agricultural facilities.

In addition to crop production, Perak is advancing the poultry sector by transitioning to a closed farming system. This approach, intended to modernise the industry, provides controlled conditions for temperature, humidity, ventilation, and feeding, facilitating systematic management. The transition phase is scheduled to conclude by the end of 2026, with full enforcement set to begin on January 1, 2027.

Highlighting Perak’s overall agricultural strength, Mohd Zolkafly noted the state has achieved a 100 percent self-sufficiency rate in 18 out of 30 key food commodities. Among these are padi (rice), coconut, sweet corn, and durian. Perak is responsible for approximately 98 percent of Malaysia’s jicama production, 45 percent of sweet potato output, and 30 percent of sweet corn. Since 2023, the state has ranked as the country’s second-largest padi producer, as well as the third-largest banana and durian producer.

“These results demonstrate a solid foundation that positions Perak to further establish itself as a primary food producer for the nation,” Mohd Zolkafly said.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.