International Islamic University Malaysia, Malaysia

YSM Agroprenuers – Empowerment of youth and single mothers through sustainable agriculture

This community-based project addresses socio-economic disparities between members of society. It provides opportunities for youth from B40 families and singles mothers to empower themselves through sustainable agricultural activities. International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) in collaboration with Bank Islam Malaysia Berhad (BIMB) and the Trustees of the Malaysia Institute of Sustainable Agriculture (MISA) provided training for participants to develop skills in growing organic vegetables and herbs, which are then sold to generate income.

YSM Agroprenuers (Youth and Single Mothers) utilise underused and unused land for organic farming in line with best sustainable practices that also have socio-economic value. This project does not stop at training participants on urban farming, but they are also required to acquire financial and entrepreneurial skills through the classes conducted.

What the Judges Thought

This empowers youth and single mothers to adopt sustainable agriculture practices. Partnership with Bank and Institute for Sustainable Agriculture. 32 participants underwent entrepreneurship training to embark on their own business enterprise. Self sustainable project. Paved way to research project. Transdisciplinary and engages faculty and staff across disciplines. Recognised at RCE as part of a global network.

What it Means to Win

"A prestigious international recognition to our unwavering commitment and conviction in benefitting society. A recognition that will be multiplied into more actions and amplified as stronger avenues for a more sustainable society."

Dzulkifli Abdul Razak, Rector

Top 3 Learnings

1. We recognise the shared responsibility to uplift the socio-economic wellbeing of the underprivileged.
2. We realise the importance of engaging and earning trust to effectively execute knowledge transfer.
3. We learnt that sustainable agriculture can be a source of income.