24th AgriTech looks into embracing organic agriculture for sustainability

The efforts for contributing to a sustainable future were well supported with the successful hosting of another Agriculture Technology Seminar Series, organised by the Faculty of Science (FSc) and Centre for Agriculture and Food Research, on 19 April 2024 via Zoom.

The 24th seminar gathered speakers, academics, industry experts and the general public to discuss the theme, Harnessing the Power of Nature: Embracing Organic Agriculture for a Sustainable Future, and transformed the seminar into a dynamic platform for the exchange of ideas and best practices. It also aimed at building partnerships to create a robust ecosystem that supports the growth and success of organic agriculture.

The Organising Chairperson, Dr Pedram Kashiani, kick-started the seminar with a welcome speech. He said, “This year, thanks to the online format, we have the privilege of connecting with a broader audience all united by a shared interest in exploring the possibilities of organic agriculture. Organic agriculture emerges as a powerful answer. By aligning itself with natural processes, organic farming fosters healthy soil, promotes biodiversity, and strengthens the overall resilience of our ecosystems. By embracing organic methods, we can guarantee a healthy planet that provides sustenance for generations to come. However, the transition to organic agriculture requires a multi-faceted approach. Therefore, it is hoped that the seminar will be able to provide farmers, the backbone of this sector, with the necessary resources, from education and training to financial support and market access. Additionally, the understanding of the science behind organic practices and continuously innovating techniques are crucial to maximising yields and ensuring the long-term viability of this approach.”

Institute of Postgraduate Studies and Research (Kampar Campus) Deputy Director Prof Dr Sumathi Sethupathi, representing Vice President for R&D and Commercialisation Prof Ts Dr Faidz bin Abd Rahman, said, “This annual event has long been a cornerstone of our commitment to advancing sustainable agricultural practices, and it promises to catalyse meaningful discussions and knowledge exchange among the participants. In a world where feeding a growing population and safeguarding the environment pose simultaneous challenges, the importance of sustainable agricultural practices cannot be overstated. Organic agriculture emerges as a beacon of hope, offering a holistic strategy that addresses both food security and the preservation of ecosystems for generations to come. It signifies more than just a method of farming; it embodies a fundamental transition towards aligning with nature and acknowledging the inherent worth of our ecosystems.”

Also present to support the seminar were FSc Dean Assoc Prof Dr Lim Tuck Meng; esteemed speakers, namely Universiti Putra Malaysia Academic Prof Dr Patricia King Jie Hung, UTAR and Organic Shizukuishi Japan Adjunct Prof Dr Komiya Ryoichi, and Department of Agriculture Malaysia Deputy Director of Agriculture Economic Unit Puan Zarina binti Ramli; Heads of Departments; staff, and participants.

Prof Patricia King’s topic titled “Cultivating Change: low-carbon farming for environmental resilience” highlighted the tangible advantages of embracing low-carbon farming. Participants were advised on the critical need for concrete actionable measures, including the implementation of minimal tillage, strategic crop choices, and intercropping methods tailored to the primary crop. Her topic also underscored the importance of policy adjustments, technological advancements, and collaborative efforts across industries to urgently propel agriculture towards a sustainable and environmentally resilient future.

Prof Komiya’s topic titled “How to create organic fans in the districts where organic awareness is low”, discussed the need to address the pressing issue of skyrocketing prices of things due to the Covid-19 pandemic, and the Ukraine/Russia dispute, as well as the import of chemical fertilisers, pesticides, and herbicides, causing some farmers and dairy farmers to quit their businesses. Participants learnt that these pressing issues contributed to the low food sufficiency rate, and hence was brought to discussion among speakers and participants.

The session titled “Participatory Guarantee System (PGS): A sustainable initiative for organic farmers and organic enthusiasts” by Puan Zarina enlightened participants on her journey and experience advocating for PGS. Participants noted that Puan Zarina was the first Malaysian to participate in the Organic Leadership Course (OLC), which led to her collaboration with a Kean Beng Lee company, which is running a successful manufacturing of biodegradable pots and selling garden supplies, that was also agreeable to the idea of PGS. She explained that the first Malaysia PGS Committee Meeting was held on the 5th of May 2018 and the committee was known as Earth Tag PGS Team. The team consists of professionals such as lecturers, principals, engineers, and representatives of Eco Nursery owners. The committee also looked into the appointment of Earth Tag PGS Auditors, and to date, 145 volunteered auditors from all over Malaysia have been appointed. Puan Zarina expressed her optimism and belief in Earth Tag Organic Certification being able to interest environment lovers, organic enthusiasts, and the public who are concerned with pesticide-free plants.

The robust discussions at the seminar came to an end with a closing remark by Dr Lim. He enthused, “The passion and dedication of the organising committee have been driving forces behind our commitment to sustain this event, and it is with great pride that we embark on yet another edition. This year, we aim to foster knowledge exchange and foster meaningful discussions among stakeholders. Organic agriculture represents a paradigm shift towards harmonising with nature, recognising its intricate ecosystems, and harnessing its innate capabilities. By eschewing synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, organic farming practices prioritise soil health, biodiversity, and ecosystem integrity. This approach not only mitigates environmental degradation but also promotes long-term soil fertility and resilience against climate change.”