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Barnama
20 hours ago
- General
- Barnama
UPM Freshwater Lobster Project A Model For Sustainable Aquaculture
I t all started with a simple freshwater lobster farming project to allow Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) students to apply classroom theories in a real-world setting and expose them to entrepreneurial knowledge as well as learn the importance of sustainable aquaculture practices. The small-scale project, operated by about 20 students, kicked off last month on the grounds of the Tan Sri Aishah Ghani residential college at UPM here. It currently has six tanks, each housing 30 to 35 lobsters, both male and female. Barely a month has passed since the start of the project but it is already displaying signs of becoming an inspirational model that can open students' eyes to the importance of environmental sustainability, as well as a holistic learning platform to hone entrepreneurial skills. The idea for the project came about after a group of UPM students were sent to Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, in January to attend a three-day course on freshwater lobster farming. The freshwater aquaculture industry in Malaysia is growing rapidly with great economic potential. Muhammad Alif Haikal Mahadi, 22, a human development science student from the Faculty of Human Ecology, UPM – who was among those who attended the course – said it became the starting point for their project which is now thriving, proving that real learning begins outside the classroom. He said the broodstock (mature crustaceans used in aquaculture for breeding purposes) at their project site will start producing eggs within three to four weeks. Once the eggs hatch, it takes about three to five months for the lobsters to reach maturity and be ready for harvesting. He added it cost about RM7,000 to buy the necessary equipment such as tanks and oxygen blower, and lobster stock and other essentials to get the project going. HANDS-ON LEARNING Muhammad Alif Haikal told Bernama the insights and technical knowledge gained from the course they attended in Sabah gave him and his university mates the confidence and motivation to start their own freshwater lobster farm. 'The hands-on course provided a solid foundation in both theory and essential practical skills,' he said. 'We were given crucial exposure to managing pH and ammonia levels in the water, as well as how to care for lobsters.' Prices in end markets such as seafood restaurants can reach RM15 to RM25 for every 100 grams of cooked lobster, making it a high-value product when it reaches consumers. They were also taught how to maintain water quality and identify signs of disease in lobsters so that immediate action can be taken. In aquaculture, one of the biggest challenges is sustainable water management. 'The most difficult part is balancing water quality to ensure the prawns stay healthy and disease-free while keeping water usage to a minimum,' explained Muhammad Alif Haikal. Ammonia, which builds up from prawn or lobster waste and uneaten feed, is also a common issue. To address this, pH and ammonia test kits need to be used daily to monitor and record data, and an ammonia remover needs to be applied if necessary. He said only if there is no drop in the ammonia level will half the water in the tank concerned be replaced. This approach not only maintains lobster health but also upholds sustainability principles by reducing water wastage. Muhammad Alif Haikal said they also practice biofloc techniques to help conserve water and feed by recycling nutrients in the tank. Prawn waste is converted into microorganisms, which then serve as a natural food source, thus reducing reliance on antibiotics and chemicals. He added the Sabah course also taught them how to select quality broodstock, prepare optimal environments, manage feeding and disease prevention, and record daily data. HIGH-VALUE PRODUCT Muhammad Alif Haikal, meanwhile, admitted that their perception of aquaculture shifted entirely after attending the course and implementing their own project. 'We used to think that aquaculture was only viable on a large scale, but now we realise it can also be done on a small scale with a systematic and effective approach. 'In fact, if done properly, such projects have the potential to become knowledge transfer hubs for local communities and can even evolve into national agrotourism centres in the future,' he said. The Malaysian aquaculture industry is now increasingly dynamic with increasing domestic and export demand, especially in shrimp and freshwater fish products. He said he and his peers also see the entrepreneurial potential of their aquaculture project by turning it into a platform for knowledge sharing with the outside community. 'We can also aspire to become a freshwater lobster producer in the long term, given the wide market potential,' he added. Pointing to its current market prices, he said wholesale prices of freshwater lobster from farms range from RM60 to RM80 per kilogramme, depending on size and grade. He added that in end-user markets such as seafood restaurants, cooked freshwater lobster can fetch RM15 to RM25 per 100 grammes, making it a high-value product. Meanwhile, Deputy Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs and Alumni (HEPA), UPM, Prof Dr Arifin Abdu said the UPM freshwater lobster farming project is more than just an academic activity – it is also a strategic initiative to holistically empower students with entrepreneurial skills. He said all residential colleges and units under HEPA are encouraged to carry out at least one agricultural project to support national policies on food security and sustainable agriculture, as outlined by the Ministry of Higher Education and Ministry of Agriculture. 'Through this (freshwater lobster) project, students are directly exposed to the process of cultivating, caring for and managing lobster farming systems, which involve various technical and operational challenges,' he said. Students not only learn aquaculture techniques such as water quality management and disease prevention but are also given opportunities to design business models, manage operational costs and develop marketing strategies. 'This makes the project a comprehensive entrepreneurial education platform, where students develop leadership, teamwork and critical thinking skills, which are key elements in the real business world,' he added. CRUCIAL LEARNING PLATFORM Arifin also noted that Malaysia's freshwater aquaculture industry is growing rapidly, with significant economic potential. But despite its promising potential, the industry faces challenges such as water quality issues, disease management and sustainable use of resources. He, however, sees UPM's lobster project as a crucial learning platform to build students' capacity to tackle these challenges directly and innovatively. 'Our project is not only focused on lobster production but also opens up opportunities in shrimp seed production, alternative feeds and downstream products like frozen prawns and prawn-based ready-to-eat meals. These opportunities are highly relevant to both domestic and export markets, especially as Malaysia works to strengthen aquaculture as a major contributor to the agricultural economy,' he said. UPM Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Ahmad Farhan Ahmad Sadullah said Malaysia's aquaculture industry is becoming increasingly dynamic, with rising demand in both local and export markets, particularly for freshwater prawn and fish products. 'Projects like this not only help prepare skilled workers (for the aquaculture industry) but also support the transformation of the aquaculture sector toward smart and sustainable agriculture,' he said. Looking ahead, UPM plans to expand the aquaculture project to more residential colleges and strengthen partnerships with both local and international aquaculture industries. 'With more student and industry involvement, we hope to develop this initiative into a training hub and a model for sustainable agricultural entrepreneurial innovation. 'Our long-term plan also includes using recycled materials and cost-effective methods to encourage creativity and innovation among students,' he added.
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Rakyat Post
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Rakyat Post
[Watch] Mobile Legends Tournament In UPM Mosque's Prayer Hall Draws Public Outrage
Subscribe to our FREE A viral video showing a Mobile Legends gaming tournament being held inside the main prayer hall of Universiti Putra Malaysia's (UPM) mosque has sparked intense public backlash across Malaysian social media. The footage reveals gaming equipment and participants occupying space directly in the mosque's prayer area, an arrangement that many have deemed disrespectful to the sacred space. The social media response has been divided: some defended the event, arguing that 'the mosque is a place of unity, not just prayer.' At the same time, others suggested that the event could be acceptable under certain conditions: 'as long as they stopped during prayer time, game content not lewd, appropriate clothing, and controlled noise levels.' However, many voices expressed shock at seeing gaming activities within the main prayer hall, reflecting deeper tensions between preserving religious sanctity and adapting to modern youth culture. Masjid UPM jadi tempat karnival Mobile Legend?! THIS IS NOT OKAY! Terkejut sangat bila masuk masjid, tiba tiba ada satu ruang, penuh students main game tanpa hira orang keliling. At the same time 2 jenazah tengah bersedia untuk solat jenazah di Masjid! Admin approach polis bantuan. Diorang pun tak ok. Admin minta nak jumpa organiser. Tapi last sekali polis dah settlekan. Sungguh memalukan! Ini ke hasil graduan menara gading research uni and top uni yang di banggakan Malaysia! Langsung takde sensitiviti! Main game dah satu hal. Dalam masjid lagi satu hal. Muka organiser lepas kena tegur langsung takde rasa bersalah. I am super worried bout our younger generations! Jemput semua viralkan sebab sadly orang zaman sekarang lagi takut viral dari takut Allah 😡 Tak tahu macam mana program macam ni boleh dapat kelulusan?! Esports Growth And National Recognition This controversy arises as Malaysia's esports industry experiences significant growth. A global video game company, MOONTON Games, has recently established a Based in Shanghai, China, MOONTON Games is best known for its mobile games, including The collaboration focuses on supporting Malaysian gamers, particularly in their pursuit of winning gold in MLBB at the upcoming SEA Games. The local gaming scene has also gained such momentum that states are now organising esports tournaments for next year's Malaysia Games (Sukma). Share your thoughts with us via TRP's . Get more stories like this to your inbox by signing up for our newsletter.
The Star
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Star
Getting crowned on the second try
KOTA KINABALU: Eight years ago, she walked away empty-handed. This year, she walked away with the crown. Atitih Yatih Robert of Tamparuli was crowned the 65th Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan at the Hongkod Koisaan on May 31, a traditional beauty pageant held in conjunction with the Kaamatan harvest festival. The 26-year-old emerged the winner among 51 finalists from across Sabah and beyond, including participants from the Klang Valley, Putrajaya and Johor. A graduate of Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) in Education (Bahasa Malaysia), Atitih is currently awaiting her teacher placement. She first entered the pageant in 2017 at age 18, representing Kota Marudu, where she placed in the top 15 and was named Miss Popular Unduk Ngadau Sabah – a victory that nevertheless sparked disappointment among fans. 'I know many were disappointed back then. They asked me to return and this time, I gave it my all,' Atitih said. After an eight-year hiatus to focus on her academic and career goals, she made a comeback with renewed purpose – this time representing Tamparuli, where she was crowned the district's Unduk Ngadau. Her maternal family traces its lineage back to Kampung Ruminding, Kiulu, in the Tuaran district, where her late grandmother Sungkim Elohoban once lived. Many of her relatives, including the current village chief, are still based there. Atitih's return to the stage wasn't easy. In the five months leading up to the pageant, she lost over 10kg by practising regular workouts and a strict diet. 'That was my biggest challenge,' she admitted. 'I used to weigh about 70kg. I loved sweets – especially chocolate – but I made the decision to commit,' she said, adding that she pushed through even though there were moments when she felt like fainting from hunger. 'It's not just about appearance. I wanted to show discipline and that I was serious.' She also worked on building her confidence and overcoming deep-seated shyness. Atitih has been active in traditional dance, singing, acting and poetry recitation throughout her university life. She also held leadership roles, including in the Sabah Student Association at UPM and Persatuan Siswazah Sabah di Semenanjung (G3S), where she promoted cultural pride among Sabahan youth. She wore a traditional dress from Tenghilan known as the Pinialap, making her the first contestant to ever showcase the design at the Unduk Ngadau stage – a nod to both her heritage and pride in her team. Atitih took home RM15,000 in cash, a tiara, a UNK2025 sash, a trophy, bouquet and other prizes including scholarships, skincare products, dental treatments, free hotel stays and airline tickets. Held annually as the highlight of the Kaamatan Festival, the Unduk Ngadau pageant is a cultural tradition cherished by the Kadazandusun Murut Rungus (KDMR) community – symbolising beauty, sacrifice and the legacy of Huminodun. This year also marked a turning point for the pageant with the introduction of e-Unduk, a digital scoring system developed by Sabahan IT expert Aedeshie Daisy Rayner. The organising committee described the system as an innovation that enhances the traditional scoring framework using scientific algorithms – a move they say will ensure greater fairness and credibility in the judging process. As the curtains closed on the final night, cheers erupted for the top seven finalists who stood tall on stage – each carrying the pride of their districts and the spirit of Kaamatan. Joining Atitih were Elka Alika Pijeh (Tambunan) as first runner-up and Celarin Jenny (Kiulu) as second runner-up. Rini Swanda Jukilin (Beluran), Steavaynie Ginadus (Beaufort), Jenylin Janis (Ranau) and Evanatie Sannie (Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu) were the other finalists.
Malay Mail
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Malay Mail
From classroom to crown: Aspiring teacher Atitih Yatih takes top Unduk Ngadau 2025 in Sabah cultural pageant
PENAMPANG, June 1 — Atitih Yatih Robert, a prospective Malay Language teacher, who was representing the Tamparuli sub-district, was crowned Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan 2025 during the culmination of the Kaamatan Festival at the Hongkod Koisaan Hall of the Kadazandusun Cultural Association (KDCA) here tonight. Atitih Yatih, 26, a Bachelor of Education (Malay Language) graduate from Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) last December and currently awaiting a teaching placement, beat 51 contestants in the traditional beauty pageant of Sabah's paddy harvest season held annually since 1960. Earlier, Atitih Yatih, who participated in the competition for the second time this year after her first attempt in 2017, was selected from the round of 15 best participants before advancing to today's last stage of the top seven finalists, who were judged on public speaking, general knowledge, heritage and cultural understanding in their mother tongue (native language). Unduk Ngadau is a traditional beauty pageant that showcases the diverse ethnic cultures and heritage of Sabah held in memory of the legendary 'Huminodun' who sacrificed herself for the bountiful harvest and well-being of her people in the religious observance (transcending folklore and legend) of the Kadazan-Dusun people. Meanwhile, when interviewed by reporters, Atitih Yatih said she initially only targeted the top seven in the competition and was breathless to emerge as the Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan 2025. 'It is difficult for me to describe this victory because I have not yet processed this in my mind, I am still very shocked. I would like to thank all those who supported me, my family and friends who were willing to come from afar to support me. 'My plans after this depends on where I will be placed, I am waiting for my teaching placement ... as a Malay Language teacher later,' said Atitih Yatih, who hoped that this success would inspire the younger generation to preserve Sabah's culture and heritage. She received a trophy, RM15,000 in cash and various prizes presented by the wife of the Yang di-Pertua (Governor) of Sabah, Toh Puan Faridah Tussin in the spectacle and witnessed by the wife of the Chief Minister, Datin Seri Juliah Salag, and the Joint Chairmen of the Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan, Datuk Joanna Datuk Kitingan and Dr Mary Gambidau. Atitih Yatih was then crowned as Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan 2025 by Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan 2024 Hyellene Danius who is also a Malay Language teacher. Second place went to Elka Alika Pijeh representing Tambunan (district) who took home a trophy, RM12,000 and accompanying prizes; while third place went to Celarin Jenny representing Kiulu who took home a trophy, RM10,000 and souvenirs. Earlier, before the final stage of the competition, the 2025 Kaamatan Festival Celebration was officially closed by the Yang dI-Pertua Negeri Sabah (Governor) Tun Musa Aman with a 'mengomot' or rice harvesting ritual and seven strikes of the gong in a ceremony of splendour also attended by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor. — Bernama
The Star
3 days ago
- Business
- The Star
Age not the only factor behind moribund farms
The right help: With proper policies, incentives and technological help, local farmers will be able to produce bountiful crops to match major food producers like China, Japan and India, say agriculture and food security experts. PETALING JAYA: While ageing farmers are often blamed for the decline in food farming in Malaysia, experts argue that age alone is not the main issue, especially when countries like China, Japan, and India, which also have large populations of elderly farmers, remain major food producers. What sets these countries apart, they say, is the presence of the right policies and incentives that make growing food crops, instead of industrial crops like oil palm, a viable and sustainable livelihood. Their comments come in response to the recently released Agriculture Census 2024, which revealed that 45.4% of Malaysia's 1,008,829 individual farmers are aged over 60. The agriculture and food security experts said the key lies in policies that promote food crop cultivation using technology that makes optimum use of water, fertiliser and pesticide while being environmentally sustainable. They also stressed the need for federal support to incentivise state governments to allocate land for food crops, especially staples like rice. 'We need something similar to the policy that compensates states for not cutting down their forests,' said Prof Abd Shukor Juraimi of Universiti Putra Malaysia's (UPM) Tropical Agriculture and Food Security Institute. He was referring to the Federal government's Ecological Fiscal Transfer for Biodiversity Conservation programme, which allocated RM200mil last year for states to preserve key forest and marine areas. A similar framework should be applied to agricultural land, he added, because land used for food crops currently generates less tax revenue than land designated for residential, commercial or industrial purposes. Abd Shukor's remarks follow another key census finding: of the 7.5 million hectares of land used for agriculture nationwide, 6.5 million hectares are occupied by cash crops like oil palm and rubber. Only about one million hectares are used for food crops, with rice farming occupying just 500,000ha. The Statistics Department, which released the census, noted that the shrinking area for rice cultivation is affecting Malaysia's ability to produce enough of the staple grain. According to the National Agro-Food Policy 2021–2030 report, rice cultivation land has declined from about 700,000 hectares in 2018. The same report found that rice farmers operate on an average of just 3.48ha per person, far below the 10ha considered economically optimal. Prof Datin Paduka Fatimah Mohamed Arshad, another food security expert from UPM, said Malaysia could learn from India, which has emerged as one of the world's top rice exporters over the past decade, rivalling even Thailand and Vietnam. India, she said, achieved this despite not having large-scale agricultural schemes like Malaysia's Muda Agricultural Development Authority or the Kemubu Agricultural Development Authority. 'The Indian government supported tech start-ups that developed apps for the entire supply chain, from precision irrigation tools to sensors,' said Fatimah. 'These tools also help minimise risks from floods and droughts by predicting adverse weather to help farmers make better decisions.' Just like in Malaysia, a large proportion of farmers in India are senior citizens, she said, but this has not prevented them from producing good yields. 'With the right support and technology, they are able to make a sustainable living and thrive. So, age is not really the problem,' said Fatimah.
