JOHOR BAHRU – The Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), proudly congratulates Dr. Azman Abd Samad from the Department of Biosciences on successfully securing the ASCEND Community Engagement Grant (ASCEND CEG) worth RM30,000, awarded by the Centre for Community and Industry Network (CCIN), UTM.
The funded project, entitled “Pemindahan Teknologi Biostimulan Kulit Nanas Bagi Hidroponik Salad Komuniti Flat MMHE Pasir Gudang” (Technology Transfer of Pineapple Peel-Based Biostimulants for Community Hydroponic Lettuce Farming at MMHE Flats, Pasir Gudang), focuses on promoting sustainable urban agriculture through the utilisation of agricultural waste.
The initiative aims to introduce an environmentally friendly approach to hydroponic vegetable cultivation by exploring the potential of pineapple peel-derived biostimulants to support plant growth and productivity. By converting pineapple peel waste into a value-added agricultural resource, the project promotes waste valorisation and sustainable farming practices.
A key component of the project involves technology transfer and community engagement, particularly among residents of MMHE Flats in Pasir Gudang. Through knowledge sharing and practical exposure to hydroponic cultivation techniques, the initiative seeks to equip community members with the necessary skills to adopt sustainable food production practices in urban residential environments.
Hydroponic farming offers a promising solution for communities with limited agricultural space, as it allows vegetables to be cultivated without soil while potentially reducing water consumption compared with conventional cultivation methods. The incorporation of pineapple peel-based biostimulants could further support the development of environmentally responsible approaches to urban food production.
Beyond its scientific and technological contributions, the project highlights the importance of community empowerment, circular economy practices, and sustainable food security. By integrating biosciences research with practical community applications, the initiative aims to demonstrate how university-developed knowledge can benefit local communities.
The successful acquisition of this grant reflects Dr. Azman’s commitment to translating scientific research into meaningful societal impact. It also reinforces the Faculty of Science’s dedication to community-oriented innovation and supports the aspirations of UTM ASCEND 2030, particularly in strengthening university–community partnerships, sustainability, and knowledge transfer.
The Faculty of Science extends its heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Azman Abd Samad on this achievement and wishes him continued success in implementing this community engagement initiative, which has the potential to promote sustainable urban agriculture, environmental awareness, and community well-being.
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