Nature Farming Research in Malaysia: Effect of Organic Amendment and EM on Crop Production

H. A. H. Sharifuddin¹, M. F. Shahbuddin¹, A. R. Anuar¹, A. R. Zaharah¹ and J. Samy²

University of Agriculture, Serdang, Malaysia¹ and
Malaysia Agricultural Research and Development Institute, Serdang, Malaysia²

Full Paper (PDF File: 158KB)

Abstract

The use of organic amendments in nature farming systems for food and agricultural production has long been practiced in Malaysia. Prior to the introduction of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, Malaysian farmers depended solely on organic manures as a source of nutrients for crop production. However, under this system, production was low and agricultural activities remained at a subsistence level. With the advent of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, especially after the Second World War, Malaysia emerged as the world's top producer of natural rubber, and later, in the 1980's, as the top supplier of palm oil.
Because of increasing concern about the adverse effects of agrichemicals on the environment and human health and questions on the sustainability of these intensive agricultural systems, research on alternative farming emerged in the 1970's with special emphasis on the use of natural products and agricultural wastes. Through these concerted efforts, Malaysian agriculture has now largely utilized most of the available agricultural and processing wastes, which has greatly improved soil quality and the environment. Under the Sixth Malaysian Plan (1991-1995), research was intensified to bring about a more efficient agricultural system that is productive, highly profitable, sustainable and environmentally-friendly.
In 1990, research on nature farming using Effective Microorganisms (EM) started in Malaysia after the First International Conference on Kyusei Nature Farming in 1989. For the past three years, research efforts have compared nature farming using organic amendments and EM with conventional farming using chemical fertilizers in the production of sweet corn (Zea mays L.) and leaf mustard (Brassica juncea). Results indicate that the use of organic amendments, particularly chicken dung, with EM can significantly increase the yield of both crops.
Currently, nature farming research with EM is being conducted on the production of sweet corn, leaf mustard and flooded rice. Before the end of the year, two more research projects will be added, namely, the production of strawberry (Fragaria sp.) and of durian (Durio zibethinus Murr.).