@ AGROBiz | JANUARY-FEBRUARY . 2024

BY KHIRTINI K KUMARAN

Led by Chief Executive Officer Zaidi Shahrim , MARDICorp operates as a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Malaysian Agriculture Research and Development Institute ( MARDI ), an agency under Malaysia ’ s Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industries .

With a mission to bridge the gap between research and industry , MARDI- Corp , which was founded in 1992 , plays a pivotal role in commercialising MARDI ’ s technological innovations and research findings , bringing them to market to meet the evolving needs of the agriculture industry .

INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS FOR AGRICULTURE

As Malaysia continues to navigate the challenges and opportunities in the agriculture sector , MARDICorp remains steadfast in its commitment to driving innovation , fostering collaboration , and promoting sustainable development .

With its diverse portfolio of services and dedication to excellence , it is poised to shape the future of agriculture in Malaysia and beyond .

According to Zaidi , MARDICorp has three core businesses which focus on catering to the needs of the agriculture sector , namely :

• Agro Technology & Expertise Management Services

• Agro Events Management Services

• Agro Tourism & Agri-Business Management Services “ The Agro Technology & Expertise

Management Services division is dedicated to commercialising MARDI ’ s technology , offering consultancy services , project management , and knowledge transfer programmes ,” said Zaidi .

“ So , MARDICorp is responsible for commercialising all the technological innovation produced by MARDI and bringing them into the market ,” he said .

Meanwhile , MARDICorp ’ s involvement in managing events at the Malaysia Agro Exposition Park Serdang ( MAEPS ) is a testament to its commitment to promoting Malaysia ’ s agriculture and food lifestyles .

“ MAEPS , spanning 130 hectares of lush greenery , hosts prestigious events such as the Malaysia Agriculture , Horticulture and Agro Tourism ( MAHA ) Expo , position-

MARDICorp is harnessing cutting-edge technologies to cultivate a new generation of agriculturists to navigate the complexities of modern farming

ing itself as a premier venue for local and international activities in the agriculture sector .”

Regarding venturing into the agribusiness sector , Zaidi shared that MARDICorp aims to enhance agricultural systems ’ efficiency and technological intensity .

“ By engaging in collective business activities within the food supply chain and agriculture management , the company contributes to national food security while promoting environmentally responsible practices .”

MARDICorp catalyses positive change in Malaysia ’ s agricultural landscape , from revolutionising agro-technology to championing agro-tourism . With a vision extending far beyond its borders , it is not just transforming the agriculture sector - it ’ s nurturing a brighter , more sustainable future for future generations .

PIONEERING AGRICULTURAL INNOVATIONS FOR FOOD SECURITY

In October 2023 , MARDICorp established the MARDICorp Academy , a pioneering venture to revolutionise the agricultural landscape by integrating technology into traditional farming practices and serving as a global collaborative hub .

Zaidi elaborated on the multifaceted role of the academy , which includes :

▶ Fostering technological advancements

At the heart of MARDICorp Academy ’ s mission lies the imperative to engage and empower the younger generation in agriculture . Recognising the pivotal role of technology in modernising farming practices , the academy champions the adoption of smart IoT systems , including drones , to enhance agricultural productivity and efficiency .

“ This year , MARDICorp Academy is on its way to being certified by the Civil

Aviation Authority of Malaysia ( CAAM ) as a training and licensing provider for agriculture drone pilots ,” he shared .

By harnessing cutting-edge technologies , MARDICorp Academy seeks to cultivate a new generation of agriculturists equipped with the tools and knowledge to navigate the complexities of modern farming .

▶ Global collaborative hub Beyond its domestic mandate , MARDI- Corp Academy ’ s influence extends far beyond Malaysia ’ s borders . Through strategic technology exports to countries such as Papua New Guinea , Palestine , Nigeria , and Suriname , the academy serves as a hub for agricultural innovation , facilitating the exchange of expertise and best practices .

Zaidi envisions the academy as a collaborative platform where nations converge to share insights and collectively address the agricultural sector ’ s challenges .

KEY PILLARS OF FOOD SECURITY

Reflecting on MARDICorp ’ s journey since its establishment in 1992 , Zaidi emphasised its focus on food security and its role as a catalyst and connector within the food and agriculture ecosystem .

He highlighted five fundamental pillars essential for safeguarding Malaysia ’ s food security and sustainability , drawing attention to critical areas of focus and intervention : I . Alternative food sources II . Adequate food production III . Youth engagement in agriculture IV . Food preservation technologies V . Seedling production

“ First are alternative food sources . As you know , Malaysia ’ s staple food is rice ,