Vertical hydroponic workshop on smart farming

The Faculty of Science (FSc), in collaboration with the Office of International Affairs (OIA) and the Continuous Learning and Sharing Society (CLSS), successfully organised a workshop titled Vertical Hydroponic Workshop on 19 May 2025 at Block D, Faculty of Science, UTAR Kampar Campus.

The invited speakers were Ms Sylvia Ang Seok ping from Ladang Oasis Sdn Bhd and Mr Tay Yen Pei from Simplify Networks Sdn Bhd.

The event was coordinated by Institute of Postgraduate Studies and Research Deputy Director Dr Phoon Lee Quen, Office of International Affairs staff Ms Loi Sien Mun and Continuous Learning and Sharing Society Board Member Mr Ooi Kah Biew, who also contributed hydroponic sets for the workshop. Among the distinguished attendees was Ir Ts Wong Seak Wai,the Chairman of the Technological Association Malaysia (TAM) Perak Branch.

The workshop aimed to introduce participants to the principles of hydroponic planting and smart farming, raise awareness about the role of smart farming technologies in addressing food security challenges, and promote networking among individuals interested in sustainable agriculture and innovative farming techniques.

Ms Ang began the session by introducing the fundamentals of hydroponic systems, highlighting their advantages over traditional soil-based farming, such as water efficiency, faster plant growth, and

Mr Tay, on the other hand, explained smart farming integration, emphasising the role of technology in modern agriculture. His talk covered the use of sensors for monitoring environmental conditions (e.g., humidity and temperature) and the implementation of automated nutrient delivery systems.

Overall, the participants also had the opportunity to engage in a hands-on activity where they assembled a vertical hydroponic system using recycled materials. The facilitator demonstrated how to maintain optimal nutrient levels, pH balance, and lighting for effective plant growth.

The insightful workshop concluded with a Q&A session and a group photo session.