KOTA KINABALU: Sabah's vanilla planters are collaborating with Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) to propel the industry forward.
Local vanilla planter Leo Komuji said an agreement with the varsity will lead to UiTM students doing 'internship' at the farm to conduct research and development and to learn agro-entrepreneur skills.
"I've worked tirelessly over the years to prepare for today, always aiming to translate my success in the vanilla business into educational opportunities.
"Sharing my experiences with academicians and students through educational institutions has been a priority for me.
"It's one of the many ways I can contribute to the younger generation and promote research and development (R&D) and human capital development," said the farmer of 14 years during a recent memorandum of understanding signing with UiTM Sabah at Sepanggar near here.
The founder of My Kebun Vanilla from Kinarut said the collaboration would see UiTM researchers take part in planting activities at his farm in Kinarut.
The R&D would enhance understanding and documentation of vanilla cultivation processes.
Leo said he believed the initiative will greatly benefit the local community of planters, providing insights to improve every aspect of vanilla farm management, from tissue culture and planting to harvesting and processing.
"Through this collaboration, we aim to change the perception that only the poor, unambitious, and uneducated are involved in agriculture.
"We want to send a positive message, especially to the people of Sabah that agriculture is a viable and lucrative business for everyone.
"By providing education and effective internship programmes, we can elevate the industry and produce a new generation of skilled entrepreneurs."
Leo also said his team is ready to take on the challenge of mentoring and supporting UiTM students through My Kebun's internship programme.
They plan to provide comprehensive training to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed as agriculture entrepreneurs is aligned with UiTM's direction in fostering entrepreneurship among students.
Leo expressed gratitude to UiTM for the collaboration, and acknowledged the role they played in making this dream a reality.
Present at the MoU signing were Sabah UiTM rector Professor Madya Dr Rozita@Uji Mohammed and Borneo Vanilla Sdn Bhd Business Development Director Richie Lee.