PENANG LAUNCHES HIGH-IMPACT RICE FARMING PROJECT USING QARBOGROW TECHNOLOGY

GEORGE TOWN, Oct 1 (Bernama) -- The Penang government has introduced a high-impact rice farming initiative using a locally developed green technology photosynthesis booster to increase yields and strengthen the competitiveness of the agricultural sector.

Penang Agrotechnology, Food Security and Cooperative Development Committee chairman Fahmi Zainol said the project is supported by the State Agriculture Department in collaboration with Qarbotech Sdn Bhd through the innovative product ‘QarboGrow’, created by Malaysian scientist Prof Dr Suraya Abdul Rashid.

He said research shows QarboGrow enhances the photosynthesis process, accelerates plant growth, improves resistance against diseases and pests, and directly boosts rice yields.

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“The product is developed using carbon nanotechnology from agricultural waste, making it an eco-friendly alternative to conventional chemical inputs.

“The project covers 2,000 hectares of padi fields across three districts: Seberang Perai Utara (SPT), Seberang Perai Tengah (SPT) dan Seberang Perai Selatan(SPS),” he told Bernama today. 

He said applications of QarboGrow are carried out when the rice crop is 40, 50, 60 and 70 days old, considered the critical growth stages for higher productivity.

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Fahmi said the initiative allows farmers to enjoy better yields and sustainability, while aligning with the nation’s aspiration to ensure long-term food security.

The RM1.622 million project involves 1,319 farmers across major planting areas, including Jalan Sempadan, Guar Perahu, Kampung Terus, Lahar Kepar and the MARDI Research Institute in Bumbung Lima.

So far, yields have shown significant improvement, from an average of 4-5 tonnes per hectare previously to 6-7 tonnes per hectare this season.

He said this translates to about a 30 per cent increase, or at least one additional tonne per hectare, equivalent to an extra RM1,500 in income, adding that with QarboGrow costing only around RM320 per hectare, it is considered a worthwhile investment for farmers.

Fahmi said the most widely planted variety in Penang is MR297, known for its resilience and high yields, and noted that with optimal seed use and advanced technology such as QarboGrow, rice farming in Penang has become more productive, profitable, and sustainable for the future.

-- BERNAMA