By Nurhasmira Abu Hassan, Centre for Knowledge Transfer, Industry and Community Linkages

As another initiative to empower the local economy through knowledge transfer, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) has recently launched a new pilot project in Kampung Budak Badak.

The project involves a rainwater harvesting system (SPAH), an integrated aquaculture, and oyster mushroom entrepreneurship. It is a sustainable water resource management initiative. The integrated aquaculture combines fish farming with agriculture, while the oyster mushroom entrepreneurship programme provides training in cultivating, managing, and processing mushroom-based products.

Kampung Kubang Badak was chosen as the project site due to its strategic location and proximity to the campus, which makes it easier to coordinate and monitor the activities.

To ensure the success of the project, over RM100,000 of fund has been channelled through various sources including the Sejahtera MADANI@KPT (SejaTi MADANI@KPT), Komuniti@UniMADANI, and Service Learning Malaysia-University for Society (SULAM) initiatives.

The project will not only enhance food security but also open new economic opportunities for the community. A total of 30 participants from diverse backgrounds including housewives, single mothers, retirees, and youth are involved in the project. They are expected to earn a monthly income of between RM1000 and RM2000.

“This effort is a strategic initiative that reflects the university’s commitment to empowering the local community through knowledge transfer, innovation, and sustainable development,” said UMT Vice-Chancellor Professor Ts. Dr. Mohd Zamri Ibrahim during the launching ceremony at Surau At-Taqwa, Kampung Kubang Badak on 12 September.  

“It is also in line with the university’s agenda to promote inclusive and progressive social values, in accordance with UMT’s slogan, U & Me Together.”

“The collaboration between the university and the community, with the support of government agencies, is hoped to elevate Kampung Kubang Badak into a model of a progressive, competitive, and sustainable rural community,” Professor Zamri said.

As the project’s symbolic launch, Professor Zamri also released 1,500 catfish fry into a breeding tank, representing a new phase in UMT’s commitment to serving as a strategic partner in community development.

UMT is confident that, with continued support from all parties, the project will continue to grow and benefit more segments of society in the future.