For the first time, the Pagoh Campus of Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) hosted a lively World Soil Day celebration, drawing over 200 participants and representatives from 15 industries and agencies. Recognized by the United Nations (UN), World Soil Day (WSD) is celebrated annually on 5th December to raise global awareness about the critical role of soil in human life, supporting sustainable agriculture, food security, biodiversity, and environmental conservation.
This inaugural event featured a variety of activities, including academic seminars, food security forums, organic vegetable picking and purchasing, exhibitions of ICA research products, the launch of the ‘ICA Innovates’ brand, and the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between UTM and the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI).
The Innovation Center in Agritechnology for Advanced Bioprocessing (ICA) showcased five innovative products ready for licensing. Highlights included the Pineapple Probiotic Drink Powder, designed to enhance gut health and immune function, and the Slow-Release Organic Hydroponic Fertilizer ‘Hydroboost’, which provides sustainable growth in hydroponic systems. Also on display were visually striking Banana Tissue Culture Plants, developed using advanced tissue culture techniques, suitable for both ornamental and agricultural use.
ICA also introduced high-potential marketing products under the ‘Fertilla’ brand, such as the eco-friendly Azolla Bio-compost Fertilizer, enriched with Azolla plants and effective microorganisms, offering slow-release nutrients to boost crop yields. Additionally, the luxurious Agarwood Perfume & Sacha Inchi Self-Care Products, inspired by nature, combine the richness of agarwood and Sacha Inchi oil for enhanced well-being and self-care.
Mohd Farid Ismail, the coordinator of the 2024 World Soil Day celebration at ICA UTM Pagoh Campus, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all parties involved in making this inaugural event a success. He extended special thanks to the event sponsors, including Getting Back 2 Nature Sdn. Bhd., Sime Darby Property, Evergreen Engineering Resources, Apical Scientific, and UTM Holdings Sdn. Bhd.
Source: UTM NewsHub