Education and Innovation for Future Food Security
In ensuring the long-term well-being of the people through a reliable supply of nutritious and affordable food, the Perak State Government, under the Perak Sejahtera 2030 initiative, has launched the Food Security Academy (Akademik Sekuriti Makanan – ASM) — a strategic effort that integrates education, research, and innovation.
This academy was established through close collaboration between the Perak State Agriculture Development Corporation (SADC) and Universiti Sultan Azlan Shah (USAS), with support from other agencies and institutions such as MARDI, FAMA, the Department of Agriculture, LPP, and higher education institutions including UPSI and local polytechnics.
Purpose of Establishing the Food Security Academy
The Food Security Academy aims to serve as the main driver in producing a knowledgeable and skilled generation in sustainable food management. Its key objectives include:
- Enhancing the capacity of Perak citizens to produce food sustainably.
- Preparing the younger generation with the knowledge and skills related to food security.
- Becoming a research and development (R&D) hub in the fields of modern agriculture and the food industry.
- Supporting food security policies and implementation through scientific research and data-based strategies.
Strategic Focus Areas of the Food Security Academy
01.
Education
Offers courses, training modules, and academic programs that cover smart agriculture, food safety, halal food practices, and logistics and supply chain management.
02.
Research
Conducts studies in areas such as high-yield crops, technology-based farming systems (IoT, automation), and innovative food processing and storage methods.
03.
Entrepreneurship Development
Provides incubation programs, entrepreneurial training, and mentorship for agropreneurs, local food entrepreneurs, and young farmers.
04.
Strategic Collaboration
Encourages cross-sector collaboration between academia, government agencies, and industry players to build a resilient food ecosystem.
The Academy’s Role in Advancing Perak Sejahtera 2030
The academy is a catalyst in achieving the long-term goals of Perak Sejahtera 2030, including:
- Ensuring food self-sufficiency and resilience against food supply crises.
- Creating high-value job opportunities in the agro and food technology sectors.
- Positioning Perak as a halal food hub and exporter of innovation-driven agricultural products.
- Improving rural well-being through the adoption of new technology and knowledge.
Target Groups Who Will Benefit
- Students: Gain practical experience and knowledge in food security, modern agriculture, and food technology.
- Farmers & Livestock Breeders: Access to the latest technology training, modern agronomic practices, and market and financing connections.
- Food Entrepreneurs: Guidance on halal certification, food safety, packaging, and digital marketing strategies.
- Local Communities: Increased awareness of healthy eating, sustainable practices, and the importance of food security in daily life.
Institutional Support and Implementation
The Food Security Academy is driven by a variety of support mechanisms :
- The Perak State Government as the lead through the Perak Sejahtera 2030 agenda.
- USAS as the main academic partner in curriculum development and program delivery.
- FAMA, MARDI, LPP, and the Department of Agriculture for technical expertise and infrastructure.
- Private sector and cooperatives as strategic partners for investment, joint research, and market development.
Additionally, an endowment fund of RM20 million has been allocated by Perak SADC to finance the academy’s long-term development.
Conclusion
The establishment of the Food Security Academy reflects Perak’s strong commitment to building a robust and sustainable food ecosystem for the future. Through the integration of knowledge, technology, and strategic partnerships, the people of Perak will not only enjoy a stable food supply but also reap economic and social benefits in a holistic manner.
For more information about other programs and initiatives offered by the Perak state government, please visit the Perak Sejahtera 2030 website. This website aims to be a one-stop information center for all news, programs, and schemes related to the Perak state government.
Perak Sejahtera 2030 is designed as a guideline for the formation of policies, initiatives, and major agendas of the state for the years 2022-2030 by the Perak State Government under the leadership of YAB Dato’ Seri Saarani bin Mohamad, the Chief Minister of Perak.