SUBANG JAYA: Taylor’s University recently unveiled the new Taylor’s Urban Farm (TUF) at its Lakeside Campus.
In its press release it said that TUF offers a physical one-acre ‘field of inquiry’ where students and staff alike can actively and intellectually respond to the need for transformation within the food system through innovation and technology.
“TUF houses over 20 types of vegetables, fruits and herbs through three distinct planting systems: vertical towers, grow beds and auto pots.
“In support of sustainable practices, the urban farm implements a closed-loop system that reduces dependence on external inputs and strengthens the nutrient cycle through recycling the water used for growing plants.
“Annually, the farm has the capacity to grow and harvest a total output of over 4000kg worth of fresh, organic and pesticide-free produce,” it said.
It added that the farm is semi-automated through the use of the precise Internet of Things (IoT) Nido One system which can automatically control and detect several factors in a hydroponic growing system such as the pH level of the water, nutrient solution and climatic parameters such as temperature and humidity.
“The technology and innovations available as well as our commitment to purpose-led learning, coupled with the multidisciplinary collaboration within our institution, puts us in a prime position to become a key player in the cultivation, amplification, and facilitation of debates and activism that can influence change to the food systems.
“By building a sustainable food and agriculture system to ensure food security and safety, we can play our part to improve the overall nutrition and sustainability of Malaysia’s food supply by 2030,” it added.
The significance of the experiential learning opportunities that TUF offers is highlighted through the Minor in Sustainable Urban Farming.
“Taylor’s is the first private university in Malaysia to offer this study option in which students will be taught several modules in areas such as crop development, production and management through hydroponic systems, sustainable agriculture, and agriculture automation and data management.
“Through these experiences, students will gain practical knowledge in sustainable urban farming practices, which not only contribute to environmental preservation but also promote public health and support local communities,” it added.
