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The Star
5 days ago
- Business
- The Star
TVET drives young agri talent
SIX of the nation's 86 vocational colleges offer agriculture-related programmes, with studies carried out yearly to determine community and market needs in every state. This, says Education Ministry Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Division director Ts Zulkernai Fauzi (pic), is among the ministry's efforts to help ensure the sustainability of the sector and foster innovation and economic growth. 'Collaborations through initiatives like the GoGreen@Kebuniti programme with other ministries and agencies have also encouraged young people to be involved in agriculture-related activities,' he told StarEdu. He added that the ministry's TVET programmes have successfully trained youth in modern agricultural techniques, such as precision farming, aquaponics and agrotechnology, equipping them for contemporary challenges. 'Students receive practical exposure to farming techniques, crop management and livestock care through on-campus farms and internships. 'Training also emphasises entrepreneurship, helping students develop business plans and gain skills to start their ventures,' he said. Acknowledging the importance of youth participation in agrotourism, Zulkernai said TVET graduates, particularly those with specialised training in agriculture, tourism and hospitality, are well-positioned to drive Malaysia's agrotourism sector. 'Their skills in modern farming, entrepreneurship and digital technology not only can improve the profitability and sustainability of agricultural ventures but also enhance the overall tourist experience,' he said. He added that construction, electrical and mechanical engineering graduates can contribute to building and maintaining farm facilities, accommodations and other tourism infrastructure. 'Digital marketing training enables graduates to help promote agrotourism ventures online, attracting a broader audience. 'TVET programmes in hospitality prepare graduates to manage guest services, create experiences and ensure customer satisfaction, which are essential for a successful agrotourism enterprise. 'With specialised knowledge in environmental conservation, graduates can design sustainable farm practices that are appealing to eco-conscious tourists and create educational workshops or interactive sessions for tourists, such as demonstrations on organic farming, aquaponics or traditional agricultural methods,' he said. Zulkernai, however, pointed out that addressing issues like perception, industry collaboration and resource constraints will be crucial for increasing youth engagement and ensuring agriculture's sustainability as a vibrant career sector in the future. 'Investing in TVET education and integrating it with agrotourism initiatives can create a mutually beneficial relationship between agriculture and tourism while fostering rural development and food security,' he said. He added that developing Malaysia's agrotourism sector requires a comprehensive approach that combines skill-building, financial support, innovation and community engagement. 'By creating opportunities and removing barriers, these strategies can empower young agrotourism entrepreneurs to thrive while contributing to Malaysia's economic growth and sustainable tourism goals,' he concluded. – By ROWENA CHUA
The Star
5 days ago
- General
- The Star
Letters: Aces go places
I REFER to the letter 'Straight As but at what cost?' by Dr Pola Singh published in StarEdu on May 11 ( While I understand the writer's apprehension about the high number of 2024 Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) top scorers, I would like to congratulate each and every one of these aces. I assume you not only did well in the SPM, but were active in various school activities and showed consistency in your academic performance probably since your primary years. Your peers might have teased you for being a bookworm or an introvert, but deep down inside, the hurtful words probably came from a place of envy and admiration, wishing they could shine like you. Learn to accept the expectations that come with being a straight A student but be modest. Did you get a scholarship? Which college will you attend? What course will you take? Can you cope with a new environment? These and many more will be asked of you (and your parents) to the point where you may start to feel that your achievement is a double-edged sword. Don't allow others to make you nervous. Feel good about yourself and focus on the positives. Be confident and believe in yourself because the pressure will continue to mount. If you are sent abroad to pursue your tertiary education, you are likely to be homesick. There you are, alone in a foreign country, experiencing a different environment and culture for the first time in your life. Your heart will tell you to take the first flight home but you know you must persevere to discover a new world filled with unique opportunities and life-changing moments. With your excellent academic results, you are likely to be accepted by prestigious institutions that demand only the best of you. You and your parents will constantly be asked about your progress. Some who ask are genuine in wanting you to succeed. Others are just waiting for signs that you are faltering so that they can begin raining negative comments on you. Don't ever doubt yourself because you have made it this far. Set a high standard for yourself and stay focused on the future. Never get complacent. When you are intent on achieving your dreams, do not be afraid to strive for it. Skills can be acquired and honed, knowledge can be collected and wisdom comes with time. But it is only by having a passion for your studies that you will succeed and be better than the competition. And again, you will find yourself the envy of others. DR ARZMI YAACOB Ex-academic
The Star
5 days ago
- Business
- The Star
Reimagining the farm with youth
WITH agrotourism gaining momentum both globally and in Malaysia, now is the time to invest in strategic initiatives that enhance the country's competitiveness in this growing sector. Encouraging active youth participation, stakeholders say, should be high on the list of priorities, as it will not only ensure long-term sustainability, but also contribute to national food security. Phoon Farm in the City chief executive officer (CEO) Datuk Allan Phoon said the younger generation can help the industry stay relevant by bringing fresh perspectives and ideas, and tapping into emerging trends that appeal to both current and future generations. 'With their skills and knowledge – especially in digital tools and technology – they can help modernise agrotourism, adopt more eco-friendly practices, and promote our local culture and heritage,' he told StarEdu. He added that youth stand to gain from the bright prospects of Malaysia's agrotourism sector, crediting it to the country's diverse cultures and communities, along with its rich tropical rainforests and island destinations. In its latest report, global management consulting firm Imarc Group stated that the global agrotourism market reached US$73.2bil (RM311.3bil) in 2024 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 10.9%, reaching US$205.6bil (RM874.3bil) by 2033. According to the report, agrotourism refers to a form of tourism that involves visiting agricultural areas to experience farming and enjoy a rural environment. It includes fruit picking, cow milking, vegetable harvesting, livestock rearing, horticulture, crop cultivation, farm tours, agricultural workshops, and demonstrations. The stakeholders' call to emphasise agrotourism also comes as the country gears up for Visit Malaysia Year 2026. As reported in the media, Malaysia is aiming to attract 45 million visitors and generate RM270bil in tourism revenue by next year. To foster young agrotourism entrepreneurs, Phoon – who is also the West Pahang Eco-Tourism and Leisure Farm Association president – recommended initiatives such as mentorship programmes, access to grants, funding or low-interest loans, and partnerships between universities and existing agrotourism businesses. 'Spreading awareness through education is key, where the younger generation is taught from an early age the benefits of farming, how agrotourism can lead to a meaningful and fulfilling career, and its vital role in food security. 'As for higher education, strengthening training programmes that focus on agriculture, tourism, and business management skills would help equip graduates to embark on this journey,' he said. Phoon shared that Farm in the City, an agrotourism provider in Seri Kembangan, Selangor, which offers a farm, petting zoo and cultural experiences, has supported initiatives that encourage youth participation – along with its sister company The Bentong Farm in Pahang, 'We offer internships and accept about 40 to 50 tertiary students every year from courses such as agriculture, animal husbandry, veterinary care, biodiversity, landscaping and forestry. Many of them transition to full-time positions after graduation. We offer part-time work and volunteer programmes too. 'We also conduct programmes for children, such as our 'Junior Farm Rangers', 'Farm Ranger Experience' and career talks, to educate them about the environment, plant and animal responsibility, give them the experience of being a zookeeper for a day, and introduce them to potential careers in the industry,' he said. Lending expertise, funding Citing long-held perceptions that agriculture is dirty, dangerous and difficult work, Agrobank president and CEO Datuk Tengku Ahmad Badli Shah Raja Hussin said efforts must be made to promote agriculture – and by extension, agrotourism – as a viable career path for youth. 'We need more youth to participate in the agriculture business. With digitalisation and the Internet of Things (IoT), agriculture is becoming a tech-driven industry. 'Youth are more tech-savvy than the generations before them. They can adopt technologies and increase production,' he said. Tengku Ahmad Badli Shah Tengku Ahmad Badli Shah added that Agrobank, through its Young Graduate Agropreneur Development Programme, has partnered with schools and universities to offer hands-on learning experiences such as farm visits, lab work, direct crop sales to the market, and business workshops. 'By giving students a 'combo' taste of what working in agriculture is like, it will not only spark their interest in the field, but also serve as a starting point for them to launch their businesses,' he said. He also said the Agrobank Centre of Excellence plays a vital role in moulding young talent into sustainable agropreneurs through a series of workshops, training sessions and group coaching focusing on entrepreneurship. 'These cover modules such as mindset transformation, business model canvas, basic financial management and digital marketing,' he shared. Noting the financial challenges young Malaysians face in entering the agrotourism sector, Tengku Ahmad Badli Shah said Agrobank – a Malaysian government-owned bank focused on agriculture – offers tailored financial schemes to support them. 'For example, our Program Agropreneur Muda offers financing of up to RM300,000 at a profit rate of 5.50% per annum with a tenure of seven years, to encourage and sustain youth participation,' he said. He added that the bank also offers microfinancing of up to RM500,000 for aspiring agrotourism entrepreneurs, which can be used to boost working capital and support capital investments in their businesses. 'We also provide small and medium enterprise financing at preferential rates. We usually charge a profit rate of 3% to 3.5% with a longer tenure of about eight to 10 years. 'Additionally, we support women empowerment through special financing schemes. These are offered at attractive rates, enabling women to promote their agrotourism businesses,' he said. Mohamad Zabawi Also addressing funding challenges, Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (Mardi) director-general Datuk Dr Mohamad Zabawi Abdul Ghani said the government body helps young Malaysians enter agrotourism through the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry's Agrotourism Grant. 'This grant offers up to RM200,000 in financial support to those who qualify. 'Young agropreneurs can also consider applying for financial aid from the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry, which provides support of up to RM250,000,' he said. He added that Mardi also offers expert assistance through its Technology Transfer and Entrepreneurship Development Centre and its Agropreneur and Market Development Centre, providing advice, guidance and support to help individuals start and grow successful agrotourism businesses. 'Mardi's training programmes focus on skills such as farm management, hospitality, marketing, and sustainable tourism practices. 'We also conduct workshops and certifications for young people in areas such as sustainable agriculture, ecotourism and customer service. This ensures the workforce is equipped with the skills needed to meet global tourism standards. 'Furthermore, we are involved in programmes like internships and mentorships, where young entrepreneurs are paired with researchers and agropreneur leaders to gain hands-on experience and guidance,' he said. More support needed Despite these efforts, the stakeholders say more government intervention is needed. Phoon said government support is essential in providing grants, financial assistance, and opportunities for knowledge sharing, networking and collaboration. 'Streamlining regulations and standards would encourage the development and improvement of the industry, making it more accessible to startups. Providing incentives for sustainable practices – such as tax breaks or subsidies for similar projects – would also help. 'The government could further support agrotourism by promoting it through campaigns and forming collaborative partnerships with the tourism board to drive public interest,' he said. He also stressed the importance of strong collaboration between the government and industry players. Agreeing, Tengku Ahmad Badli Shah said successful strategies require collaboration. 'Infrastructure support is best provided by the government. Many agrotourism providers struggle with capital to develop proper infrastructure such as access roads and drainage systems, which are capital-intensive. 'They should work with local authorities; even a small grant from the government could help develop their agrotourism sites. 'We recommend the continuation and expansion of government-backed financial incentives, grants and tax breaks, specifically tailored for youth-led agrotourism ventures,' he said. He added that more comprehensive training programmes should be developed to equip young entrepreneurs with the skills required in agriculture, tourism management and digital marketing. 'Agrobank can partner with educational institutions to create specialised courses and workshops for youth in the agrotourism sector,' he said. Getting Gen Z on board Fiona My uncle is a farmer. Spending time on his farm taught me to value food and the people behind its production. Agrotourism is meaningful not only as income, but also as a way to reconnect with our roots. Creating immersive experiences like farm stays or community activities could attract more youth. Programmes that offer competitive wages, certifications or skills – like organic farming or ecotourism – could make these jobs appealing. Additionally, highlighting agrotourism's role in sustainability and food security would resonate with eco-conscious youth. -Fiona Flonika Joshman, 22 Navena The main issue discouraging youth from working in agriculture is the perception that it is low-status, low-paid and old-fashioned. By highlighting its role in food security and climate change, and investing in infrastructure, we could begin to break these barriers. Government- or NGO-backed programmes that offer certifications could also attract more youth. -Navena Viswam, 17 Li Zhen Agrotourism jobs are not widely known in cities. I would have considered them if such opportunities were closer to home. Youth are likely to be drawn to the CV-building benefits, hands-on experience and skill development that agrotourism offers. Partnerships with nonprofits, youth-led groups or schools could increase outreach. Youth today are motivated by purpose, so showcasing the societal impact of these programmes could boost participation. -Ong Li Zhen, 21 Daniel Compensation plays a crucial role in attracting creative talent to expand this sector. The government and industry players must provide better financial support, like subsidies for farmers and young talent in agrotourism. Promoting Malaysian products on both domestic and international platforms can also highlight the industry's appeal. With the right incentives, more youth will be encouraged to contribute to agrotourism. -Daniel Fadzlan Abdullah, 22 Isabel It's not enough to say, 'Come, farm.' Many see it as hard labour. To spark interest, schools could introduce farm visits and farm-to-table activities. These early exposures can ignite curiosity. Also, blend farming with what youth already love – host content creation camps on local farms, teach sustainable recipes, or run pop-up cafes using local produce. Offer more affordable 'day trips' and collaborate with local councils to promote farms as youth-friendly destinations or community hubs. Finally, integrate innovation. Youth love tech, so bring in smart farming, agritech tools, and sustainability challenges to make farming feel futuristic and fun. If we want youth to care about agrotourism, we need to show them its real opportunities, starting by presenting it as a platform for innovation and impact. -Isabel Lim, 14
The Star
25-05-2025
- Health
- The Star
UM medical students use music for healing
DESPITE the demanding nature of her studies, fourth-year medical student Ainura Musaeva finds time to play the piano – not only to continue pursuing her passion for music, but also for a greater purpose: offering comfort to patients and visitors at a hospital. 'My goal is to help people feel at ease and offer them a moment of peace in what may be a stressful or uncertain environment,' she told StarEdu. Ainura is one of 23 medical students at Universiti Malaya (UM) – each of whom holds certified piano qualifications – who have volunteered as pianists at the UM Medical Centre (UMMC). Their inaugural initiative, the Piano Therapy Project, which began this year, aims to extend patient care beyond procedures and prescriptions. As the project's founding director, Ainura said music can have a significant effect on emotional and physical well-being. 'When selecting the musical pieces to perform, I focus on classical compositions that are calming and uplifting, as my primary aim is to create a soothing atmosphere that can provide comfort and emotional relief,' she said. She added that the initiative has helped her understand the holistic approach to patient treatment. 'It has reminded me that healing is more than just medications and procedures; it is also about meeting patients' emotional needs and providing a supportive, comforting environment,' she said. Programme supervisor Dr Christina Lee Lai Ling, a transfusion medicine specialist, noted that music therapy is increasingly recognised as a valuable complementary approach in healthcare, offering benefits for both patient care and medical education. 'Studies have shown that the gentle, flowing melodies of the piano have a profound impact on the human psyche, helping to slow the heart rate, lower blood pressure and reduce cortisol levels – key indicators of stress. 'Piano instrumental play without lyrics reduces analytical mind engagement and allows listeners to immerse themselves in pure sound, promoting relaxation and emotional balance. 'Live performances of soothing piano music often create a comfortable ambience and momentarily relieve the mind from the challenges of illness and recovery,' she offered. For medical education, Dr Lee said music therapy serves as a tool to teach empathy, communication and holistic care to students. 'By integrating music therapy into medical education, studies have shown that medical students not only gain knowledge about it but also gain positive experiences regarding its use and efficacy, in line with affective and psychomotor skill-oriented learning aims. 'Ultimately, music therapy bridges the gap between science and art, enriching both patient outcomes and the education of healthcare providers,' she said. Dr Lee shared that the project was set in motion after a grand piano was placed on the ground floor of The Plaza at UMMC following a suggestion from UMMC deputy director of management Mariashabiradalia Mohammed Hashim to create a calming space for patients waiting for their transport. Dr Lee 'The initiative gained momentum when medical students began volunteering during their free time to perform regularly, with support from the public relations department team overseeing the piano's maintenance. The team later helped organise a roster for regular performances,' she said. She added that the project has received positive feedback from patients, staff and visitors, many of whom expressing gratitude and appreciation for the medical students' performances. Ainura encouraged her fellow medical students to volunteer for community projects that positively impact patients. 'Although it is reasonable to assume that medical students have a lot going on in their lives, the opportunity to contribute to community projects that provide great value to both students and patients is priceless. 'The chance to make a positive impact on someone else's day is well worth the effort,' she said. As for what's next for the Piano Therapy Project, UMMC Corporate Relations Department head Syarifah Hasniza Syed Hassan Almashoor said plans are underway for collaboration with students from the UM Faculty of Creative Arts. 'Plans for conducting research on patients, staff and their mental health, as well as improving the overall hospital visit experience, are underway. 'The public, including patients and their accompanying persons, may also request to play the piano,' she said. – By DR WONG ZHI YONG
The Star
10-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
Turning the page on English lessons
Fully engaged: Teachers brainstorming ideas during the workshop. WHEN Jeyenthi Marimuthu attended her first-ever workshop run by The Star's Newspaper-in-Education (Star-NiE) programme, she did not expect it to change the way she viewed classroom teaching. 'I thought I'd join just for extra knowledge,' said the SK Jalan Enam English panel head. But what she discovered during the recent workshop left a lasting impression. 'I rarely used newspapers in teaching as I felt it was too high-level for my pupils. 'To my surprise, I realised I could do a lot with the new activities designed by experts who have experience and are directly involved in our education system,' she told StarEdu. For Jeyenthi, a key takeaway was the adaptability of the Star-NiE activities, which cover speaking, reading, writing, listening, as well as grammar and vocabulary. 'Experts design these activities for different levels of proficiency, and teachers can use them in classrooms with differentiated strategies. 'I look forward to introducing them to my pupils,' she said. SK Kg Rinching English panel head Nor Zarina Ahmad Zainadra echoed her sentiment. Also a first-time participant, she came with hopes of picking up practical strategies to incorporate newspaper-based activities into her lessons. 'I was hoping to discover engaging ways to build pupils' language skills through real-world content,' she said. She left the workshop with a toolkit of creative ideas – from teaching grammar and vocabulary using newspaper clippings to getting pupils to create dialogue for comic strips. 'Pupils love hands-on activities. Creating dialogue for cartoons from the newspaper also fuels their imagination and creativity,' she said. The workshop, held in collaboration with the Hulu Langat District Education Office (PPD) at SJK(T) Bandar Mahkota Cheras, Selangor, on April 30, brought together 93 English panel heads from primary schools. Hajar Led by Star-NiE freelance trainer Chang Siew Juen, a retired English language teacher, participants explored interactive strategies to make newspapers a powerful classroom tool. 'It was eye-opening to see how newspapers can be used in so many fun and practical ways,' said PPD Hulu Langat English language officer Hajar Zakaria, who observed the session. 'I could see the teachers getting excited, already planning how to use the ideas in their own lessons,' she added. For teachers new to Star-NiE, Hajar offered this advice: 'Start small. 'You don't have to overhaul your whole lesson. Pick one article or activity and see how your pupils respond. Chances are, you'll be surprised in a good way.' She believes Star-NiE has long-term potential as a complementary teaching tool in Malaysia's English language curriculum. 'It brings variety to classrooms and makes lessons more relevant and engaging. 'I can see it playing a strong role in keeping English fun and meaningful,' she said. Since its inception in 1997, the Star-NiE programme has supported English language teaching and learning in primary and secondary schools nationwide. Star-NiE activities are available in StarEdu on Sundays, and in StarLifestyle on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. For enquiries, email starnie@
