UTAR shines at AGRICO 2024 with multiple awards

Dr Yogambigai (left) and Ong Kai Feng (right)

UTAR showcased its academic excellence on the international stage at the 11th International Conference on Agriculture 2024 (AGRICO 2024), held from 23–24 September 2024. The prestigious event, organised by The International Institute of Knowledge Management (TIIKM), saw UTAR earning multiple accolades for its contributions to cutting-edge research and collaboration in the agricultural sector.

The conference, themed Integrated Agricultural Management: Sustainable Eco-Friendly Practices, was held virtually with over 120 participants from 30 economies. Researchers, practitioners, and policymakers gathered to discuss innovative solutions to the global challenges of food security and sustainable agriculture.

Faculty of Accountancy and Management (FAM) academic Dr Yogambigai Rajamoorthy from the Department of Economics was awarded the Overall Best Presentation for her research titled Factors Affecting Food Production in Malaysia: Econometric Analysis. Her research examined how factors such as population growth, climate change, and disruptions to the supply chain have impacted food production in Malaysia. Dr Yogambigai’s research highlights the need to monitor food price inflation and increase youth involvement in agriculture to enhance Malaysia’s food production systems and tackle food security issues.

Reflecting on her award, Dr Yogambigai said, “Receiving this award alongside my student is an honour. It has been a rewarding experience to showcase our research and contribute to the dialogue on agricultural sustainability.”

Ong Kai Feng, a graduate of UTAR, won the Session Best Presentation award for his research on Factors Affecting the Food Security and Food Production System in Japan: An Econometric Analysis. His study focused on Japan’s unique challenges, including an ageing agricultural workforce and shifting dietary habits. Ong’s findings provided critical insights into Japan’s food security landscape, offering valuable policy recommendations to enhance sustainability and self-sufficiency in food production.

“Winning this award is a tremendous honour,” Ong said and added, “I hope my research can contribute to Japan’s efforts to improve food security and sustainability.”

Adding to UTAR’s success at AGRICO 2024, Assoc Prof Dr Aye Aye Khin, from FAM, received the Academic Partnership Award in recognition of her outstanding coordination efforts. Dr Aye Aye played a pivotal role in facilitating UTAR’s collaboration with TIIKM, ensuring the smooth participation of UTAR staff and students at the conference. Her leadership helped UTAR’s delegation present eight research papers and actively engage in discussions throughout the event.

The AGRICO 2024 organisers expressed their appreciation to Dr Aye Aye, sending her a letter of commendation as a token of gratitude for her dedication and coordination, which significantly contributed to the success of the conference. Reflecting on UTAR’s achievements, Dr Aye Aye said, “This award is a reflection of our collective effort as a university. I am proud of our staff and students for their commitment to advancing agricultural research.”

AGRICO 2024 provided an important platform for UTAR to showcase its strengths in addressing pressing global agricultural challenges. The University’s research contributions highlighted innovative approaches to food production, agricultural sustainability, and policy development. The conference’s themes spanned a wide range of topics, including nutrient management, climate-resilient agricultural practices, and advancements in agri-business.

Dr Yogambigai and Ong’s research, along with Dr Aye Aye Khin’s award for coordination, firmly established UTAR’s presence as a leader in the field of agricultural research and international academic collaboration.

Dr Yogambigai’s certificate

Ong Kai Feng’s certificate

UTAR’s Academic Partnership Award from TIIKM