Optimizing vacant land for crop production using linear programming
List of Authors
  • Nik Hashim Nik Mustapha , Nik Mohd Hazrul Hashim

Keyword
  • Vacant land, linear programming, crops combination, optimal solution, primal, dual problem

Abstract
  • This study aspires to unveil the economic potential of vacant land around the city which is cultivated with a combination of cash crops; vegetables and fruits. Energetic youths with enterprising minds are motivated to the agricultural business. Linear programming is employed to derive optimal solution for a combined crop harvest. The return from crop combination of corn, cucumber, eggplant, and carrot grossed at MYR61, 984. If land can be further increased because of the availability of vacant land while financial capital can be borrowed from the state authority or agriculture bank, cash returns for these farms can be raised to MYR81,581 per year. Sensitivity analysis on the corn price as an important crop shows that a fall in the corn price from MYR5,700 to MYR5,400 per metric ton, farm’s income will be reduced to MYR59,734. These products were grown primarily for local markets and sold as wholesale within the state. The demand for them is mainly assured and can be transported to nearby towns. The major drawback of this selfmotivated project is the South China Sea monsoon which often brings unpredictable rains and floods that could damage the crops.

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