Malaysian Journal of Sustainable Agriculture (MJSA)

Climate change is profoundly reshaping the ecological dynamics of insect pests, posing significant threats to global crop production and food security. This review synthesizes current knowledge on how rising temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, and elevated atmospheric CO₂ levels influence pest biology, population dynamics, geographic distribution, and interactions with host plants and natural enemies. Evidence indicates that many insect pests are experiencing increased voltinism, range expansions, and prolonged activity periods, while pest-crop interactions are becoming more unpredictable across agroecological zones. Invasive species are emerging as dominant threats in newly suitable habitats, often outpacing the adaptive capacity of indigenous biocontrol agents. Moreover, climate variability disrupts pest phenology, weakens the efficacy of conventional management strategies, and complicates forecasting models. Crop-specific case studies highlight how key staples such as rice, wheat, maize, and barley are increasingly vulnerable to pest outbreaks under shifting climatic regimes. We emphasize the urgency of integrating climate-adaptive frameworks into pest management, including the deployment of predictive modelling tools, host plant resistance breeding, and ecologically-based strategies that enhance agroecosystem resilience. This review underscores the necessity for a paradigm shift in pest management—from reactive control to proactive, climate-informed interventions—to safeguard crop productivity in a warming world.

Plant proteins are recognized for their environmental benefits, including a low carbon footprint, renewability, abundant availability, and cost-effectiveness, making them ideal raw materials for biomass-based ecofriendly adhesives. In this study, a green, environmentally friendly soybean protein-modified phenolic resin was synthesized by treating soybean meal with sodium hydroxide/urea aqueous solution. FTIR analysis results of PF and U-SMPF resins shows that the peptide chain structure of soybean protein was incorporated into the phenolic resin, undergoing co-condensation with phenol and formaldehyde to form co-condensed compounds. The 30% U-SMPF resin shows the highest bonding strength at 0.92 MPa, suggesting that the monosaccharides generated from soybean meal treated with sodium hydroxide/urea solution have a limited effect on the bonding strength of the co-condensed resin.

Plant proteins are recognized for their environmental benefits, including a low carbon footprint, renewability, abundant availability, and cost-effectiveness, making them ideal raw materials for biomass-based eco-friendly adhesives. In this study, a green, environmentally friendly soybean protein-modified phenolic resin was synthesized by treating soybean meal with sodium hydroxide/urea aqueous solution. FTIR analysis results of PF and U-SMPF resins shows that the peptide chain structure of soybean protein was incorporated into the phenolic resin, undergoing co-condensation with phenol and formaldehyde to form co-condensed compounds. The 30% U-SMPF resin shows the highest bonding strength at 0.92 MPa, suggesting that the monosaccharides generated from soybean meal treated with sodium hydroxide/urea solution have a limited effect on the bonding strength of the co-condensed resin.

Soil degradation resulting from modern agricultural practices is of great concern and requires a sustainable management approach. The use of biochar has gain popularity due to its potential for providing lasting improvements to soil quality, eco-friendliness and ease of preparation by farmers. This review delves into biochar’s role towards addressing sustainability issues in agriculture with emphasis on mechanisms of its interactions with soil for improved crop yield and environmental safety. Biochar enhances soil water holding capacity (WHC) by proliferating soil water holding sites due to its surface area and numerous water retention pores thus nourishing crops with required moisture for its growth. It lowers soil bulk density by replacing peds and clogging voids between grains thus promoting root growth. Moreso, it increases soil aggregate stability by forming stable soil-biochar complexes thus fortifying soil aggregates against erosion and degradation. It increases soil nutrient retention through surface oxidation reactions in soil due to its functional group. It promotes microbial abundance and diversity due to its network of pore as well as its dark color which shields soil microbes from predators. It also increases crop resistance to diseases, reduce bio-availability of heavy metals and contaminants. By providing comprehensive analysis of mechanisms of biochar interaction with the soil system, it is envisaged that this may provide policy makers, farmers and land users the information on the inherent capabilities of biochar for achieving global food security through sustainable soil management, crop yield increases and getting the environment rid of pollutants.

Nepal’s agricultural sector is crucial for employment generation and GDP, but it is vulnerable to adverse weather and climatic conditions, particularly affecting rice production. The Decision Support System for Agro Technology Transfer (DSSAT) uses the Cropping System Model (CSM)-CERES Rice to simulate rice growth and development. This study used the DSSAT rice growth simulation model to assess rice production in the Terai region of the eastern province, specifically Tarahara. Data was collected from 2013 to 2018, using the NR 1190 (Radha-13) rice variety under long-term soil fertility experiments. The study found that increased atmospheric temperature, solar radiation fluctuations, CO2 concentration variations, and rainfall fluctuations negatively affected rice yield. Maximum temperatures increased rice yield proportionally, while decreased minimum temperatures led to significant yield loss. Changes in solar radiation intensity also negatively affected yields. The model indicated a linear increase in rice yield up to 600vpm of CO2 concentration, but beyond which the yield plateaued. Precipitation changes exhibited decreasing trends in yield, and the combined effect exacerbated the negative impact. The study also assessed best management practices (BMPs) for rice production in the study region. The optimal conditions identified included planting ten days earlier, an NPK ratio of 120:40:50, and a plant density of 130 at transplanting, resulting in a 23.49% increase in yield on applying all best management practices.

Agriculture remains a crucial economic activity in the Niger Delta, yet inefficiencies in resource utilization hinder its profitability and sustainability. This study applies Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) to evaluate the relative efficiency of farm production activities for Cassava, Rice, Cocoa, Plantain, and Oil Palm in the region. The objectives of the study were to: measure the relative efficiency of different farm production activities in the Niger Delta using the DEA technique; estimate the profitability of selected crops (Cassava, Rice, Cocoa, Plantain, and Oil Palm) by analyzing yield, cost structures, and economic benefits; identify key determinants of farm efficiency using the Tobit regression model to examine the impact of cost, productivity, and other relevant factors; compare efficiency levels across different crops, determining which operate at optimal efficiency and which require resource allocation improvements; and provide policy recommendations to enhance agricultural efficiency and profitability, focusing on cost-effective solutions and productivity-enhancing techniques. Additionally, Tobit regression was used to identify key determinants of farm efficiency, focusing on the impact of cost structures, productivity, and other relevant factors. The profitability analysis reveals that Plantain and Rice exhibit the highest economic benefits, while Cassava and Oil Palm demonstrate lower profitability despite their significant production volumes. DEA findings indicate that while some crops operate at optimal efficiency, others require improved resource allocation strategies. The Tobit regression model identifies cost as a major constraint on efficiency, while increased productivity significantly enhances farm performance. Findings from this study provide empirical insights to guide policy interventions aimed at enhancing agricultural efficiency, reducing production costs, and promoting sustainable farming practices. The study contributes to evidence-based policymaking by integrating advanced quantitative techniques with practical agricultural insights, ultimately fostering economic transformation and food security in the Niger Delta.

This study explores the diverse varieties of yams cultivated and consumed in Sri Lanka, focusing on the irdistinct characteristics, nutritional value, and culinary applications. Yams such as Kaha Gahala, Kukulu Ala,Katu Ala, Javala, Udala, Rajala, Kiri Kadol, and Hingurala have long been integral to the island’s agriculture all and scape and traditional cuisine. These varieties vary in texture, shape, and flavor, with each contributing to a range of dishes, from savory curries to fried snacks. Rich in carbohydrates, fiber, and essential minerals like potassium, yams serve as a vital energy source for the local population. Additionally, varieties like Sevela Alayam, characterized by its smooth texture and mild sweetness, offer versatile cooking options while enhancing the nutritional profile of Sri Lankan meals. The study highlights the significance of these yams not only as a food source but also as part of the country’s cultural heritage, with their continued importance in every day diets. Through examining these yam varieties, the research provides insights into their role in Sri Lanka’s agricultural economy and culinary traditions.

Zingiber officinale, commonly known as ginger, is a valuable crop in Malaysia, recognized for its economic contributions, culinary significance, and medicinal properties. However, recent declines in ginger production, despite high market demand in Malaysia, gingers are largely attributed to diseases caused by numerous pathogens, primarily bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Diseases in ginger, including bacterial wilt, rhizome rot, leaf spot, and mosaic disease, pose significant challenges by reducing both the yield and quality of ginger, negatively impacting local farmers and the agricultural sector in Malaysia. While diseases such as bacterial wilt and rhizome rot exhibit overlapping symptoms, advancements in technology have facilitated diverse diagnostic approaches for their detection, allowing for accurate and rapid diagnoses. For instance, diagnostic methods such as RT-PCR, ELISA, LAMP, and machine learning algorithms are widely used for diagnostic purposes. Moreover, various control approaches have been introduced to manage disease infections including the application of fungicides, bactericides, seed and soil management, as well as physical and biological practices. This article addresses the recent issues concerning emerging diseases in ginger, highlighting advancements in diagnostic instruments and strategies for controlling the spread of these diseases in Malaysia.

Ganoderma sp. causes serious disease, known as the Basal Stem Rot (BSR) to oil palm in Malaysia. Currentpractices for managing the BSR disease primarily involve sanitation measures, while the application offungicides is less cost-effective. The application of biocontrol agents, especially Trichoderma-based products,has been widely explored and shows great potential, although maintaining their population over an extendedperiod remains a challenge. Thus, the prospecting endophytic Trichoderma could be the new potentialbiocontrol agent against BSR disease. The aim of this study is to determine the effectiveness of endophyticTrichoderma asperellum M103 and T. harzianum M108 against BSR disease by using a seed coating techniqueat the nursery stage. At the end of the study, both endophytic Trichoderma isolates M108 and M103 showedthe potential in suppressing the BSR disease at 67.78% and 71.11%, respectively of disease incidence (%DI),compared to the control at 87.78%. Overall, M103 demonstrated its effectiveness against BSR disease, assymptoms in inoculated oil palm seedlings appeared only after 4 months. Additionally, M103 achieved thelowest epidemic rate (ER) of 7.07 units month-1 and the smallest area under the disease progress curve(AUDPC) of 236.25 unit² over 11 months. These findings underscore the potential of endophytic Trichodermaas a viable biocontrol agent against BSR disease, offering a promising avenue for the sustainable diseasemanagement in oil palm cultivation.

Indian agriculture, the cornerstone of the nation’s economy; is increasingly constrained by decliningproductivity, labor shortages, and the impacts of climate change. Traditional, labor-intensive farmingmethods, particularly in staple crops like paddy, limit scalability and economic efficiency. This studyinvestigates the transformative potential of drone technology (unmanned aerial vehicles or UAVs) in modernagriculture by comparing its adoption to conventional practices. Focusing on a sample of 100 UAV-adoptingfarmers and 140 conventional farmers in West Bengal, the research highlights significant economic andoperational advantages. Results indicate that UAV-assisted farming increases economic efficiency byapproximately 88%, reduces cultivation costs by about 32%, and enhances farmer incomes by 41–45%.These improvements are attributed to precise resource management, reduced wastage, and targeted interventions, which optimize the application of water, fertilizers, and pesticides. Despite these benefits, barriers such as high initial costs, lack of technical expertise, and regulatory challenges hinder widespread adoption, particularly among smallholders. This study bridges a critical research gap by providing a detailed economic analysis of UAV adoption in Indian agriculture. It underscores the need for targeted policy interventions, including subsidies, training programs, and technology access initiatives, to unlock the full potential of UAVs and promote sustainable agricultural practices.