THE plantation industry has been instrumental in laying the building blocks of Malaysia and its contribution to the country is undeniable.
In the early 1900s, the sector welcomed labour contributions from various people — those from Malaya and other parts of the world. The plantation sector will continue to remain economically relevant as it acts as the glue that bonds us as a nation.
However, in powering forward, some things must change.
Professionally trained planters must be developed to lead the industry into the 21st century.
There are educational opportunities available, ranging from programmes that pave the way for a diploma, degree, master’s and PhD.
Plantation companies must encourage their employees to upgrade themselves by offering incentives.
In the last decade, students have graduated from programmes, such as the Certificate in Plantation Management.
This qualifies them to enrol for the Professional Diploma of Licentiate of the Incorporated Society of Planters and the number of planters pursuing master’s degree is on the rise.
Although it is common to define a planter as one who owns a certain acreage of land, in reality, a planter is much more.
A planter is a multifaceted individual who is an agriculturist, a scientist, a farmer, a counsellor and a bookkeeper.
We must do more to encourage our youth to take up employment in the industry.
The love for the plantation sector must start young, sown at the primary level, strengthened in the secondary years and fortified during the tertiary stages.
In an industry known to be dominated by men, it is important that equal opportunity be given to women.
There are “lady planters” serving the industry and more women should be encouraged to join the profession.
Malaysia became a world leader in agriculture due to the strength of our “forefather” planters. Their technical skills, alongside the systems they established, are standards that, if observed, will secure us an edge in the industry.
The enforcement of the Planters Act will bring a much-needed transformation to the industry, as it will get the ball rolling.
DATUK DAUD AMATZIN
Chairman, The Incorporated Society of Planters Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur