Advancement of Canopy Size Index (CSI) Mapping • Obtained accurate information from spatial data to estimate valid site yield potentials and produce detailed yield maps for the identification of under-performing palms for corrective actions • Planted materials with potential oil yields exceeding 9 MT per ha annually • Continued utilising the systematic approach established to capture sequential aerial images of estates with drones, allowing for the collection of spatial data at biennial intervals. As a result, advanced methodologies for counting palms and categorising palm growth by canopy dimensions were formulated Revised Leaf Nutrient Classification • Evaluated AAR long-term agronomy trials which revealed that AA Hybrida 1S and AAR’s clonal materials exhibit improved Nutrient Use Efficiency compared to older materials • Updated leaf nutrient classification to cater for newer planting materials • The revised classification system provides more precise guidance for managing the nutritional status of oil palms • Minimised or prevented issues related to excessive fertiliser application, thus making a positive contribution to lower GHGs and a more sustainable future for oil palm agriculture Enhanced Web-AEGIS System • Developed a web-based Geographic Information System (GIS) system named AEGIS for seamless and efficient integration and storage of maps, remote sensing imagery, and historical data • This GIS system replaces the existing methods of printing hard-copy maps and allows dissemination of digital maps via electronic means • Offers map visualisation and analysis without the need for mastering complex GIS software • By combining time-series remote sensing imagery and historical field information, including drone images, CSI maps, and yield data, among other sources, a comprehensive yield analysis in relation to factors such as growth, weather, soil types, terrain, and more becomes possible • Able to communicate with various Internet of Things devices for data storage and presentation Enhanced GIS and Remote Sensing Techniques for Oil Palm Thinning • Developed a thinning selection method, utilising GIS and remote sensing technique • Eliminates the need for field verification and ensures benefits for a minimum of six closely planted palms • Reduces ambiguity and confusion in field selection, accelerates the thinning process, and provides objective simulation results to facilitate decisionmaking Nitrogen-Fixing (NF) Fertiliser Research • Identified four potential endophytic NF bacteria capable of colonising oil palm tissues, which offer a higher nitrogen fixation rate compared to soil-borne NF bacteria • The results from nursery trials showed a notable 25% reduction in inorganic fertiliser usage • Significant nursery seedling growth enhancement • Increased plant nutrient levels • The NF bacteria are able to fix atmospheric nitrogen BUSINESS PERFORMANCE REVIEW AAR Strategic Priorities Key Initiatives Achievements BUSINESS REVIEW Research and Development Boustead Plantations Berhad 066
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NTkwNzg=