SERDANG, 29 April 2026 - The Institute of Plantation Studies (IKP), Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), has successfully implemented the “Program Agrotech Muda Celik Pertanian” at Sekolah Kebangsaan Sawah Sempadan (SKeSAS), Tanjung Karang, from 22 to 29 April 2026. The programme was conducted in conjunction with Program Kampung Angkat Madani UPM, led by the University Community Transformation Centre (UCTC UPM). This IKP-led initiative is a pilot project aimed at providing early exposure to Upper Primary (Level 2) students on technology-based modern agriculture, particularly in the cultivation of oyster mushrooms using Internet of Things (IoT) technology. IKP is deeply honoured and sincerely appreciate the involvement and cooperation of the National Kenaf and Tobacco Board (LKTN) in supplying kenaf-based mushroom blocks to support community farming activities as well as to encourage STEM-related activities among school students. The mushroom blocks were prepared by an LKTN entrepreneur, Ms. Rosnani Daud from Cendawan Hub Resources, using materials derived from the core of the kenaf plant.
The focus of the programme was the establishment of a mushroom shade house equipped with an IoT system utilising sensors and automation powered by solar energy. This system enables efficient and sustainable monitoring and control of the oyster mushroom growth environment. Throughout the programme, SKeSAS students were exposed to both theoretical knowledge and hands-on practical training. The theoretical session was delivered by Prof. Ts. Dr. Siti Khairunniza Bejo, Director of IKP, while the practical sessions were conducted by IKP researchers and staff. Students had the opportunity to apply the knowledge gained by initiating the splitgill mushroom cultivation project, which involved hanging the mushroom blocks, making incisions, and harvesting the mushrooms.
Prof. Ts. Dr. Siti Khairunniza Bejo expressed her gratitude for the successful implementation of the programme and the strong commitment shown by SKeSAS. “Enthusiasm and excitement demonstrated by the students clearly reflect that IoT technology and agriculture are engaging STEM fields worth exploring. It is highly hope that the students would continue to develop interest in mushroom cultivation while embracing entrepreneurial values that have the potential to contribute to economic growth in the future,” she said.
Representing the school, SKeSAS teacher Ms. Rohana Thonga conveyed her highest appreciation and gratitude for IKP and UPM’s efforts in fostering STEM interest among students. “The most compelling aspects of the splitgill mushroom cultivation technology is the school’s ability to monitor and control operations remotely through a smartphone, utilising technology developed by UPM. Everything is now literally at our fingertips,” she said.
The Assistant Principal of Administration of SKeSAS, Mr. Zainudin Katiman, also expressed his appreciation to IKP and UPM for the implementation of the project. “SKeSAS students are very fortunate to gain both theoretical and practical knowledge from UPM experts, while also being exposed to mushroom cultivation techniques,” he said. Overall, the Program Agrotech Muda Celik Pertanian has successfully trained students through both theory and practice on proper cultivation methods, while enhancing their awareness of the importance of agriculture in daily life and food sustainability. Such initiatives are expected to nurture a new generation that is technologically literate, innovative, and aligned with the nation’s aspirations towards smart and sustainable agriculture.

Date of Input: 01/05/2026 | Updated: 01/05/2026 | ainzubaidah