Recognising the importance of bridging theory with practice and providing students with real-world learning experiences, UTAR sealed a strategic partnership with Hami Ecofarms Sdn Bhd, on 21 February 2024, at UTAR Kampar Campus. The collaboration aimed to foster innovation and excellence in organic and sustainable farming.

HAMI Ecofarms Sdn Bhd was represented by its Chief Executive Officer Mr Aw Chee Choy, Manager of Farm Ms Bristi Khatun, Manager of Sales and Marketing Ms Adeline Ting, and Assistant Manager of Sales and Marketing Mr Yap Chai Wan.

UTAR, on the other hand, was represented by its President Ir Prof Dato’ Dr Ewe Hong Tat, who was also accompanied by UTAR Faculty of Science (FSc) Dean Assoc Prof Dr Lim Tuck Meng, FSc Deputy Dean for R&D and Postgraduate Programmes Dr Phoon Lee Quen, FSc Department of Agricultural and Food Science Head Dr Ali Yassoralipour, FSc Centre for Agriculture and Food Research Chairperson Dr Tan Yen Nee, FSc academic Dr Pedram Kashiani, Office of International Affairs Deputy Director Dr Chen, I Chi, Division of Corporate Communication and Public Relations Head Ms Saravani Selvam, and Office of International Affairs staff Ms Chin Sau Lai.

HAMI Ecofarms grows Japanese muskmelon and Golden Emerald melon in Malaysia. HAMI also cultivates passion fruit using specific techniques. In his speech, Mr Aw introduced his company and said, “HAMI Ecofarms Sdn Bhd is an organically grown farm located in Batu Gajah, Perak. We practise sustainable farming methods using zero pesticides and chemicals. We cultivate two types of fruits; passion fruit and Muskmelon Melon with each having variations— the Japanese Muskmelon and the Golden Emerald Melon and three types of passionfruit. HAMI’s grown variation includes Panama Golden Rose and Full Star passion fruit. We have been passionate about providing premium quality fresh fruits to our customers ever since HAMI Ecofarms was established. HAMI Ecofarms is all about three important things: organically growing farming methods, sustainability, and premium quality produce.”

He emphasised, “Today’s partnership with UTAR is a step towards creating a more sustainable and resilient community. Committed to organic and sustainable methods, we contribute to the health of our ecosystem, promote biodiversity, and reduce carbon footprint. Indeed, joint collaborations and projects in research and development (R&D) with higher learning institutions are a powerful means of leveraging the strengths of both academia and industry. I hope today’s partnership serves as a catalyst for innovation, combining academic rigour with practical industry insights to address real-world challenges.”

Welcoming HAMI Ecofarms Sdn Bhd into UTAR’s MoU fraternity, Prof Dato’ Ewe said, “It is indeed a pleasure to announce this strategic partnership with HAMI Ecofarms Sdn Bhd, a beacon of innovation and excellence in organic and sustainable farming. HAMI has been embracing agricultural practices that prioritise the health of our planet and the well-being of those who consume its produce. Their commitment to organic farming, sustainable methods, and environmental conservation resonates deeply with our university’s values and mission.”

He added, “As an educational institution, UTAR recognises the importance of bridging theory with practice, and this partnership exemplifies our dedication to providing our students with real-world learning experiences. Through research, internships, and collaborative projects, our students especially from the Department of Agricultural and Food Science of Faculty of Science will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the innovative practices employed by HAMI. This engagement will not only enrich their academic journey but also empower them to become advocates for sustainable practices in their future endeavours.”

“I am proud to share that UTAR Faculty of Science Department of Agricultural and Food Science has celebrated the first harvest of musk melons planted in the Green House of Agriculture Park, UTAR Kampar Campus. Led by the Head of Department of Agricultural and Food Science and project leader, Dr Ali Yassoralipour, and with the guidance of Hami Ecofarms Sdn Bhd, the first harvest was made on 30 November 2023. This collaboration is crucial for fostering innovation, advancing research, and promoting the exchange of knowledge between the academic, students and industrial sectors,” Prof Dato’ Ewe concluded.

The ceremony reached its highlight with Prof Dato’ Ewe and Mr Aw signing and exchanging the MoU documents. Curtains were drawn after a group photograph, souvenir presentation and discussion.