UMK Eyes East Coast Veterinary Hub Status, Strengthens Ruminant Industry

By Azli Shafii

BACHOK, May 16 (Bernama) -- Universiti Malaysia Kelantan (UMK) is taking steps to strengthen its position as a veterinary and ruminant industry hub on the east coast through the development of the Veterinary Entrepreneurship Teaching Farm (LPKV), which will serve as a centre for training, research and innovation in the sector.

UMK deputy vice-chancellor (Research and Innovation) Wan Ahmad Amir Zal Wan Ismail said the establishment of LPKV will not only enhance the university’s veterinary education ecosystem but also has the potential to become a reference centre for farmers, industry players and communities in the east coast region.

He said the facility will function as a centre for teaching, training, research and entrepreneurship, capable of supporting the development of the livestock industry more sustainably and competitively.

“LPKV will serve as an important platform in strengthening experiential teaching and learning activities, in addition to supporting research, innovation and the university’s future income generation.

“Through this facility, UMK will also be able to strengthen strategic networks with industry players, farmers and relevant agencies in efforts to advance the country’s veterinary and ruminant sectors,” he told Bernama at the opening ceremony of Ruminant Expo 2026 and LPKV here today.

Elaborating further, Wan Ahmad Amir said the organisation of Ruminant Expo 2026 by the UMK’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine also serves as an important platform bringing together professional bodies, producers, suppliers, farmers, academics and the community to share knowledge and expertise related to the ruminant sector and livestock disease management.

The two-day programme features various activities, including knowledge-sharing sessions on ruminant care, briefings on infectious diseases, small ruminant competitions, exhibitions and a Farm Fun Run.

He said student involvement in large-scale programmes such as this provides early exposure to the real industry environment, helping to produce competent veterinary graduates who are well-prepared to face workplace challenges.

“Hands-on field experience is crucial in developing soft skills such as leadership, communication, teamwork and programme management, which are essential in the veterinary industry,” he said.

Wan Ahmad Amir said UMK, which is anchored on entrepreneurship through its slogan “Entrepreneurship is Our Thrust”, remains committed to producing graduates who not only excel academically and professionally, but also possess strong competitiveness, creativity and entrepreneurial thinking.

-- BERNAMA