Case study of a high income smallholder
SUBOH IsmailSmallholders are capable of producing high oil palm yield comparable to that of estates if given the right guidance in the implementation of optimum agro-management practices. En. Ahmad Sidek, a smallholder from Kg. Tebuk Berihun, Sabak Bernam, has achieved more than 30 t ha-r yr-1 of fresh fruit bunches (FFB) from his three 2-ha-size oil palm holdings. A study carried out identified several factors that contributed to the success to the success of the smallholders. These include (1) use of genuine DxP planting material, (2) implementation of proper land preparation technique which includes land clearing, ploughing of soil and field drain construction, (3) adoption of right planting technique, i.e. planting distance of 8.84 m x 8.84 m x 8.84 m equilateral triangle with planting density of 148 palm ha-1, (4) adoption of good field management and maintenance practices, such as weeding, pest and disease control, pruning and manuring, (5) efficient harvesting, and (6) intercropping with banana which also improves the organic matter, nutrient and moisture content in the soil. In addition to optimum agro-management inputs, En Ahmad’s positive qualities such as having the right attitude, total commitment and self-confidence played a big role in realizing the high yield.
Tags: SMALLHOLDER, OIL PALM SMALLHOLDER, PALM OIL AND OIL PALM INDUSTRY-Malaysia, MPOB PUBLICATIONS, INCOME, CULTIVATION
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