KUALA KANGSAR: Palm oil mills in the country have been urged to use artificial intelligence (AI) technology for palm oil processing, thus reducing cost and increasing revenue. Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani highlighted this initiative at the launch of an AI-based smart palm oil mill in Kuala Kangsar, a collaboration between Minsawi Industries and AIREI Sdn Bhd.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Johari pointed out that Minsawi Industries (Kuala Kangsar) Sdn Bhd’s palm oil mill, which utilises AI technology provided by AIREI Sdn Bhd, can serve as a model for other mills. This facility is the first in the world to incorporate advanced AI technology in its sensors and predictive tools for palm oil processing. Johari emphasized that if this technology proves effective, it should be considered by all industry stakeholders. Out of the 446 palm oil mills in the country, this is the first to integrate such comprehensive AI and sensor technologies.

Johari further explained that the
implementation of AI technology allows the palm oil mill to reduce its reliance on foreign labour by about 30-35 percent, thereby prioritizing local talent to manage the technology. This reduction in workforce not only enhances processing efficiency but also increases income and maximizes production. Additionally, the decrease in workforce can lead to a nearly 35 percent reduction in overhead costs.

He also noted that with fewer foreign workers, related costs such as energy, water utility, and administrative expenses would decrease. Johari estimated that if all 446 palm oil mills adopted this technology, the number of foreign workers could be reduced by nearly 8,000, a significant figure.