A Review of Integrative Strategies for Sustainable Management of Bagworm Infestations in Malaysia and Indonesia

The agricultural sector, especially crop production and forests often faces challenges due to significant outbreaks of Bagworm pests, for instance, in oil palm plantations and arborvitae landscapes. Various studies have reported that the indiscriminate use of organochlorine insecticides has disrupted the populations of natural enemies, inadvertently worsening pests’ infestations. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies which involve biological, cultural, and chemical control methods have been developed to handle this ugly situation. Biological controls, such as Bacillus thuringiensis and entomopathogenic nematodes have demonstrated efficacy, particularly when supported by beneficial plants that sustain natural enemies. Chemical controls, including selective insecticides and drone-based spraying, equally offer rapid and efficient larval population reduction. Innovations such as pheromone traps and microbial agents have shown great aid in suppressing the development and manifestation of pests on plants. Understanding the biology and lifecycle of bagworms is crucial for optimizing control measures. However, challenges remain in awareness, implementation, and environmental sustainability. This review consolidates decades of research, highlighting adaptive IPM strategies for sustainable pest management and ecosystem health with reflections from Malaysia and Indonesia.