Foundation in Science students gain industry insights
through educational tour

Learning extended beyond the classroom when students from the Foundation in Science programme of UTAR Centre for Foundation Studies at Kampar Campus embarked on an educational tour to Spritzer Eco Park and Factory in Kamunting, followed by a visit to My Charcoal Factory in Kuala Sepetang, Taiping, on 1 November 2025.

Organised by the Student Development Committee, the full-day tour involved 27 students and five staff members and aimed to expose students to real-world industrial and environmental practices.

The first stop at Spritzer Eco Park and Factory offered students a firsthand look at one of Malaysia’s leading mineral water producers. During the visit, Mr Shaiful Hajri, Senior Executive, shared the company’s journey from the discovery of its underground water source in Taiping to the expansion of its product range, which now includes mineral, flavoured, and sparkling water. Students were also briefed on safety requirements before observing key stages of the production process, including bottle moulding, sterilisation, filling, packaging, and distribution.

The factory experience gave students a deeper appreciation of how stringent hygiene standards, technology, and efficiency play a crucial role in ensuring product quality. Mr Shaiful also took the opportunity to share insights into internship and career prospects within the company, offering valuable guidance to students preparing for their future careers. The visit concluded on a warm note with tokens of appreciation presented to the participants.

In the afternoon, the group travelled to My Charcoal Factory, where a different but equally enriching learning experience awaited them. Welcomed by Mr Chuah KY, the person in charge, students were introduced to the traditional charcoal production process used by the factory for more than five decades. The explanation of how mangrove wood is slowly baked in specially constructed clay ovens captured students’ attention, particularly the patience and precision required throughout the process.

Environmental sustainability emerged as a key takeaway during this visit, as students learned about the factory’s practice of replanting mangrove forests to ensure long-term ecological balance. The tour also showcased how charcoal production generates useful by-products such as soap, vinegar, insect repellent, and facial care products, highlighting how waste can be transformed into valuable resources.

The educational tour concluded in the late afternoon, leaving students with meaningful insights into industrial operations and sustainable practices. Many expressed that the experience broadened their understanding of manufacturing processes and reshaped their perceptions of traditional industries, making the tour both informative and inspiring.