Agricultural Knowledge Makes Wan Irfan Hakim More Appreciative Of Sustenance

BINTULU, Nov 1 (Bernama) -- Wan Irfan Hakim Wan Ismail, 21, from Wakaf Bharu, Tumpat in Kelantan, who received the Bintulu Port Holdings Berhad’s Co-curricular and Student Development Gold Medal (Diploma Category) at the 49th Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) convocation ceremony, said that agricultural knowledge shaped him into a person who is more appreciative of sustenance.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony at Universiti Putra Malaysia Sarawak (UPMS) Bintulu today, Wan Irfan Hakim, a Diploma in Agribusiness graduate, said the recognition was a sign of gratitude for all the efforts, prayers and sacrifices made throughout his studies, while emphasising that success does not come without hard work and discipline.

"I believe every sweet journey comes with sacrifice and the belief that effort will not disappoint," he said.

Throughout his studies, he maintained a balance between academic excellence and active participation in extracurricular activities. Among his proud achievements were emerging as the champion of the International iFest Religious Lecture Competition 2023, representing Malaysia in Brunei Darussalam, and also winning the Da'i Muda competition in Jakarta, Indonesia.

"I am very grateful to my parents, Zarini Che Daud and Wan Ismail Wan Mahmod, as well as the UPMS lecturers who have always been the main driving forces in my journey," he said, adding that he views agriculture not just as knowledge about plants, but also as knowledge of life that teaches patience, perseverance and responsibility towards the environment.

According to him, the field has taught him to appreciate sustenance, understand the value of farmers' hard work, and realise that every meal on the table is the result of the earnest efforts of hardworking individuals.

He also expressed pride in the UPMS study programme, which provides a deep understanding of the role of agriculture in the survival and well-being of society.

“There is a saying in Malay that goes, ‘Be kind to the land because the land will return the favour.’ I believe this sector will continue to be the core of food security and national development," he also said.

Currently, Wan Irfan Hakim is pursuing a Bachelor of Agricultural Science Education with Honours at the Faculty of Educational Studies (FPP), UPM Serdang Campus, and hopes to become an educator who not only imparts knowledge but also shapes young generations to understand the meaning of life and appreciate the contributions of nature and society.

“I would like to invite young people to be brave and explore this field. Agriculture is not just a job, but a struggle for human survival," he added.

-- BERNAMA