Agriculture is a sector that has an important role in supporting the life of humans. In an effort to increase productivity and quality in this sector, collaborations between universities and food-based industry players are the main element. The partnerships must be solid to form a strong synergy.

Universities are research and development (R&D) centres with high potential for further development. Through collaborations with industry players and food companies, the latest knowledge and technology from academia can be transferred to the sector. This includes new findings related to farming, food processing, and management of sustainable agriculture.

“As a higher education institution, UMT is committed to providing quality education, conducting innovative research, and developing excellent human resources in agriculture,” said Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) Vice Chancellor Prof. Dato’ Dr. Mazlan Abd Ghaffar during in his speech during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between UMT and Kumpulan Ladang-Ladang Perbadanan Kedah Sdn. Bhd. (KLPK).

Also present were KLPK chairman and Mohd Radzi Md Amin, KLPK director.

He said such collaboration is important to ensure the innovations produced will benefit society.

“The involvement of food-based companies in innovation is needed to ensure that findings from universities can be commercialized more effectively. This can lead to more new products or further improvements in existing products.”

Participations from the industries in research and development can increase the ability of the industries. Food-based companies can remain competitive through the adoption of the latest technology and innovation in the agricultural sector.

“The collaboration will open the door to the exchange of knowledge, technology and resources, and create an innovative and a dynamic ecosystem to support the sustainable growth of the agricultural sector.

“We believe that collaborating will enable us to achieve our aim to increase the quality of education, support impactful research, and promote innovation in agricultural sector. This is not only for the benefit of both parties, but also for the wellbeing and progress of the country.

The partnership may spark innovation in food product development. Food companies may utilize new findings and ideas from universities to create innovative products that can fulfil market demand and provide high added value.

Strong collaborations between universities and industry players related to food may improve the agricultural sector through innovation and quality improvement. This is part of a strategic move in ensuring the sustainability and competitiveness of food and agricultural industries.

Published by:

Corporate Communications Office

Universiti Malaysia Terengganu