UMPSA receives strategic collaboration letter from Ministry of Plantation and Commodities to strengthen agricommodity sector

BANGI, 7 May 2026 – Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA) received a strategic collaboration letter from the Ministry of Plantation and Commodities (KPK) in conjunction with the recent launch of the Agrikomoditi Squad, signifying its commitment to strengthening the agricommodity sector as a key driver of national development.

UMPSA Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ts. Dr.Yatimah Alis, received the appointment letter presented by the Deputy Prime Minister, YAB Dato’ Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, in the presence of the Minister of Plantation and Commodities, YB Dato’ Seri Dr. Noraini Ahmad, at Dewan Sawit, Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB), Bangi.

According to Professor Ts. Dr. Yatimah, the initiative, which involves all public universities (UA), aims to transform the perception of the agricommodity sector from the 3D image (dangerous, dirty, and difficult) to the 3S approach (skills, sustainable, and safety) through youth involvement.

“This initiative can also empower young people as a highly skilled workforce to ensure the sustainability of the national economy, covering six major commodities, namely palm oil, rubber, timber, cocoa, pepper, kenaf, biomass, and biofuels.

“In addition, the agricommodity sector is an important contributor to the country’s exports and economic growth, while also driving rural development, increasing the income of smallholders, and enhancing community well-being.

“This initiative will provide students with opportunities to gain experience and added value, as the sector also encompasses a broad value chain, including innovation, value-added products, and green economic development,” she said.

The Agrikomoditi Squad programme, introduced for the first time, is a strategic initiative to strengthen advocacy for the sector. It serves as a platform for volunteerism and the dissemination of information to the community through a peer-to-peer approach, knowledge empowerment, and active involvement in community activities.

By: Naqiah Puaad, Centre for Corporate Communications
Translation by: Ts. Dr. Rozaimi Abu Samah, UMPSA Press