IFDC Report, Volume 21, No. 2
Abstract
This report highlights the transformative contribution of Dr S. H. Chien and the International Fertilizer Development Center (IFDC) to using phosphate rock for direct application in Malaysia. Peter Sze, General Manager of Pengedar Bahan Pertanian Sendirian Berhad (PBP), expresses gratitude for Dr Chien's research findings presented at a conference in Kuala Lumpur in 1994. The research demonstrates that directly applying phosphate rock can be a cost-effective alternative to water-soluble phosphate fertilizers under specific soil, crop, and agroclimatic conditions. The effectiveness of phosphate rock for direct application depends on factors such as rock source, soil properties, and crop species. This information has led to a shift in the traditional use of lower reactive rocks in Malaysia, which are now known to be suboptimal for acidic soil conditions. The report emphasizes the suitability of phosphate rock for direct application in Malaysia due to its acidic soils, high temperature, and ample rainfall, which are conducive to long-term plantation crops like rubber and oil palm. However, choosing the right source of phosphate rock is crucial, as properties can vary significantly among different rock sources in terms of their chemical and mineralogical compositions. The dissemination of this valuable information to plantations and end-users has led to a shift towards highly reactive phosphate rocks for direct application, not only in long-term crops but also in short-term crops such as rice, pineapples, fruits, and other plantation crops. While Malaysia has been using phosphate rock for an extended period, limited research has been conducted on various rock sources' reactivity and agronomic effectiveness. Recent studies have addressed this knowledge gap, although further research is needed due to the availability of different phosphate rock sources in the market. Dr Chien's additional seminars in 1995 and 1996 have raised awareness and emphasized the importance of rock reactivity and the availability of P2O5 in driving agronomic effectiveness. While Malaysia has been using phosphate rock for an extended period, limited research has been conducted on various rock sources' reactivity and agronomic effectiveness. Recent studies have addressed this knowledge gap, although further research is needed due to the availability of different phosphate rock sources in the market. Dr Chien's additional seminars in 1995 and 1996 have raised awareness and emphasized the importance of rock reactivity and the availability of P2O5 in driving agronomic effectiveness. As a result, many estate farmers have transitioned to highly reactive phosphate rocks. This report showcases the efforts of IFDC in promoting the use of phosphate rock for direct application in Malaysia, highlighting the potential benefits for agricultural productivity, economic development, and environmental stewardship. The involvement of the private sector, represented by PBP, has been instrumental in disseminating this knowledge and encouraging the adoption of highly reactive phosphate rocks in various crop systems. This paradigm shift marks a significant step towards maximizing the benefits of using phosphate rock for direct application and underscores the role of IFDC in contributing to global food security.
Collapse
Description
Keywords
Agribusiness, Phosphate minerals