USM Educational Outreach on Sustainable Management of Land for Agriculture

Universiti Sains Malaysia continues to strengthen its commitment to sustainable agriculture through free educational outreach programmes that empower local and marginalised communities to manage agricultural land responsibly and productively. These initiatives provide hands-on learning, promote environmentally friendly practices, and contribute to community-based economic development while fostering sustainable land use.

One key initiative in 2024 was the USM–Pinang Tunggal Community Mushroom Cultivation Project, led by Dr. Jacquelina Karimon. This collaborative programme between USM and the local community of Kampung Tok Bedu and Kampung Kubang Menerong, Kepala Batas, involved around 30 participants, including single mothers and housewives, who received training and outreach education on sustainable Volvariella mushroom farming. The project promotes the sustainable management of agricultural land by using oil palm estate areas for dual-purpose cultivation and applying chemical-free farming methods that rely on natural light and biodegradable materials. Participants learned about mushroom cultivation techniques, waste utilisation, and market-based agricultural entrepreneurship. The project, which operates at no cost to participants, demonstrates how free, community-based education can enhance agricultural sustainability, environmental protection, and rural economic resilience.

Additionally, the PPDK Teluk Bahang Herbal and Ginger Fertigation Project, supported by the Division of Industry and Community Network (BJIM) USM, serves as another model of educational outreach in sustainable land management for agriculture. Conducted in collaboration with the Southwest District Department of Agriculture, the programme trained 20 participants with disabilities (OKU) in herbal cultivation techniques, including soil preparation, fertilizer measurement, irrigation, and crop management. The participants cultivated herbs such as turmeric, pegaga, lemongrass, and cekur kampung, producing up to 150 plants within a month, which were later sold in local markets.

This initiative not only provided free agricultural education and technical guidance but also helped participants generate income, build self-reliance, and contribute to sustainable land utilisation within their community.

Together, these programmes highlight USM’s active role in offering free educational outreach on sustainable management of agricultural land, aligning with national goals to empower communities, reduce poverty, and promote environmentally conscious farming practices.