EMPOWERING INTERNATIONAL YOUTHS ON SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES IN USM

Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), Penang, 17th July 2026 – The Centre for Global Sustainability Studies (CGSS) at USM successfully organized a knowledge-sharing programme on “Agrophonic Vegetable Cultivation & Stingless Bee Honey Farming as part of a strategic initiative by EcoHub@CGSS, in collaboration with Tilting Futures international students from various countries. Their participation reflects a strong interest in green technology approaches and sustainable agricultural practices which are very important in facing pressing global challenges. This initiative reflects USM commitment on strengthening its role as a leader in sustainability in Malaysia and globally.

The programme began with a welcoming speech by Assoc. Prof. Dr Ng Theam Foo, Deputy Director of CGSS, USM. He introduces EcoHub and emphasized that sustainability education extends beyond academic knowledge and serves as a fundamental pillar in shaping future generations to be more responsible towards the environment and global well-being. The knowledge-sharing session was then continued by Dr Mohd Sayuti Hassan and Mr Muhamad Hamzah Abdul Hamid.

Both experts shared insightful details and knowledge on agroponic cultivation technology and the stingless bee honey industry, including its benefits to humans and its connection to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The session further highlighted CGSS USM’s strong commitment to empowering the sustainability agenda in line with the university’s vision to make an impact on society.

The interactive session encouraged active participation and questions among the Tilting Futures participants, demonstrating their keen interest and active engagement throughout the programme. The discussion made the knowledge-sharing session more meaningful and highly impactful. Participants were also introduced to a hands-on learning experience at the EcoHub, with the guidance of EcoHub advisor, Dr Mohd Sayuti Hassan together with Mr Muhamad Hamzah Abdul Hamid and Mr Mohd Abdul Muin. The concept of modern agroponic cultivation which utilizes solar energy as the main power source for the plant irrigation system was also introduced to the participants.

Their learning experience also involved exploration at the EcoHub around the Durian Valley, which is a sustainably managed reserved forest within the USM main campus. This activity increased participants' awareness on the importance of conserving natural ecosystems. In addition, participants were also introduced to the operations of the stingless bee honey farming which includes the techniques of maintaining and producing sustainable high-quality honey in a systematically and ethically ways.

SDGs : 4, 7, 13, 15 & 17

Original Text : Hong Kheng Jhun
Photo : Syafiq Saifullah Azmi