Malaysian urban farming project shortlisted for People’s Choice Award
The Senior Citizens Association, which has 700 members, started the eco-farm some two months ago. About 10 active members now take turns to come in to plant fruit trees, vegetables and herbs at least once a week.
By Terence Toh
The Star
Oct 32, 2022
Excerpt:
CAP education officer N.V. Subbarow noted that a few years ago, when the then agriculture minister said Malaysians should look at planting their own greens instead of complaining about rising vegetable prices, there had been much hue and cry among the populace.
“These days, however, many consider that as a workable option, as the hike in food prices and the nation’s lack of food security have riled up the people and brought about serious concerns such as higher oil prices and food shortages.
“Today, we are receiving an increasing number of calls from households and homemakers on how to do composting, how to have their very own mini garden, and so forth. It looks like people are finally embracing the green wave and the time for urban agriculture is here!” he said.
“Growing our own vegetables at home can be cost effective.
“Remember that we do not need a big space to grow vegetables.”
Subbarow also noted that in an effort for Penangites who live in high-rise buildings to grow their own greens, CAP had been promoting vertical planting units.
CAP began the Natural Farming Project 20 years ago through national awareness programmes to educate farmers about the dire consequences of using chemicals to grow food, and to introduce alternative, natural farming techniques.
