SHAH ALAM, Nov 15 — The Eco Melati project, an initiative by Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) students here, has successfully developed hydroponic and aquaponic systems with promising yields, positioning it as a potential modern agriculture model for other higher education institutions.
State executive councillor for agriculture Dato' Izham Hashim said the pilot project, which began nearly two years ago, is a testament to the strong commitment of the students and lecturers in applying modern agricultural concepts theoretically and practically.
"This is a successful pilot project. I can see the dedication of the students who managed the entire operation. With such commitment, I'm confident it can be expanded and become a model for modern agriculture in higher learning institutions," he said after officiating the Eco Melati Aquaponic Garden today.
He added the hydroponic and aquaponic systems were developed with support from the state government, the Agriculture Department, and the National Farmers Organisation (Nafas).
According to Izham, the project’s expansion will involve adding larger-scale aquaponic and hydroponic systems, as well as introducing a high-value crop — the Selangor Melon (MeloSel) — which is currently seeing strong market demand.
"If managed properly, MeloSel can be very profitable. We see a potential to introduce the crop here as an additional to the existing systems."
Izham also stressed that modern agriculture is not only about the use of technology, but also emphasises food safety, minimal pesticide use, organic practices, and the application of effective microorganisms to ensure safe, high-quality produce.
“More importantly, the success of this project demonstrates active participation from youth and women in modern agriculture. This aligns with the state’s policy to attract more young people to venture into the sector."
Meanwhile, Izham said Selangor will open two more Agriculture Produce Collection Centres to boost the marketing of farm produce, following the success of the existing centre in Kuala Langat, which also helped increase farmers’ income.
Izham said the move is part of the state government’s efforts to reduce farmers’ reliance on middlemen and ensure they receive fairer prices for their produce.
“The two locations being considered are the northern area and Hulu Langat. Within Selangor’s agricultural marketing ecosystem, we already have a wholesale market and Malaysia’s first Agro Auction Centre in Sijangkang.
“However, we still need an organised collection centre to make it easier for farmers to deliver their produce directly,” he said.
He stated that the collection centre offers farmers a dedicated space to submit their produce systematically, helping stabilise the market and ensure competitive prices through an open bidding system while minimising the risk of produce dumping.
