In a pioneering move poised to redefine the landscape of agricultural education in Malaysia, Sayur Kita Asia Sdn Bhd and Mersing Polytechnic, Johor have formalised a strategic collaboration.
This strategic alliance, formalised through a Certificate of Collaboration (COC), aims to empower the next generation of agri-tech leaders by combining Mersing Polytechnic’s technological education expertise with Sayur Kita Asia’s modern farming educational expertise.
Sayur Kita Asia, a pioneer in modern farming practises, will share its knowledge on how to build a climate-resilient hydroponics farm that is 90% automated and produces pesticide-free produce. It is committed to providing expert guidance to students, contributing to the development of research projects, and providing students with on-campus industrial training opportunities.
Mersing Polytechnic, well-known for its dedication to technical and vocational education (TVET), will share its expertise, knowledge, and technology in order to cultivate a new generation of skilled professionals.
Through “industrial on-campus” modern farming training programmes, this collaboration will extend to joint research projects, providing students with invaluable hands-on experiences and preparing them for real-world challenges.
This groundbreaking collaboration signifies a transformative initiative where Mersing Polytechnic students not only acquire knowledge within the academic realm but also gain practical experience and financial rewards during their time at the polytechnic.
The guarantee of immediate employment at Sayur Kita Asia Sdn. Bhd. following graduation is the pinnacle of this collaboration. The company, which is presently pioneering the creation of a cutting-edge, pesticide-free super farm in Johor, is committed to integrating these graduates into Malaysia’s dynamic modern farming sector.
This ground-breaking partnership goes far beyond traditional schooling, demonstrating a firm commitment to developing sustainability and innovation in the agricultural sector.
“Crucially, the project’s realisation has been made possible through essential funding support from the All Party Parliamentary Group Malaysia – Sustainable Development Goals (APPGM-SDG), highlighting its integral alignment with global sustainability initiatives. Without the crucial involvement of APPGM-SDG, this transformative initiative aimed at strengthening nationwide food security would not have come to fruition,” said Naviin Thiagarajan, founder and CEO of Sayur Kita Asia.
“This synergy not only enriches the educational experience but propels students directly into fulfilling careers, seamlessly blending academic achievement with real-world readiness. Mersing Polytechnic, Sayur Kita Asia, and APPGM-SDG envision a cohort of graduates equipped to address the challenges and opportunities presented by modern agriculture,” he said.