Melaka: The Melaka branch of the Department of National Unity and National Integration (JPNIN) is working towards establishing 15 Progressive Rukun Tetangga bases (RTPs) across the state by the end of this year to enhance community economies.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, JPNIN director Intan Suhana Yusoff stated that six RTPs were formed last year, including Kampung Bukit Nibong RTP and Bukit Rambai RTP in the Melaka Tengah district; Kampung Gadek RTP and Taman Permatang Indah RTP in Alor Gajah; and Kampung Berangan Enam RTP and Felda Kemendor RTP in Jasin.

Intan Suhana further disclosed that nine RTPs are planned for this year, with six already receiving approval. These include Taman Tambak Paya RTP, Taman Paya Rumput Jaya RTP, Banda Hilir RTP, Taman Mutiara/Sutera RTP, Kampung Pengkalan Balak RTP, and Taman Bemban Utama RTP. RTPs engage in economic activities like lemongrass and mushroom cultivation and catfish farming.

She emphasized the selection of RTPs this year is based on their ability to mobilize economic activities using available resources, aiming to set an example for other Rukun Tetangga communities in improving economic status without solely relying on government support.

Additionally, she encouraged the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) in RTPs to enhance production, making them more progressive, competitive, and resilient. Currently, Kampung Berangan Enam RTP and Kampung Gadek RTP are utilizing IoT technology in collaboration with Bukit Beruang Community College and the Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (FAMA).

The Ministry of National Unity envisions every RTP to advance its economic sector using technologies like IoT and AI to add value and increase productivity, serving as a model for other RTPs.

Meanwhile, Datuk Dr. Muhamad Akmal Saleh, the Merlimau assemblyman and State Rural Development, Agriculture and Food Security Committee chairman, expressed the state government's readiness to collaborate with universities and institutes of higher learning (IPT) to promote innovation in agriculture and livestock sectors.

He highlighted previous collaborations, such as with Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) in shrimp and mussel farming, demonstrating the potential for technology to transform agriculture into a profitable sector.