Urban Farming Initiative Enables The Disabled To Cultivate Independence

By Muhamad Adzhar Tajuddin

IPOH, Nov 10 (Bernama) -- The determination of a group of persons with disabilities (PwDs) from the Perak Association for the Intellectually Disabled to cultivate hydroponic crops in Kampung Tawas here has not only opened doors to gaining new skills but also proven that they can learn to be independent when given the right guidance and opportunities.

Association administrator Noreder Abdul Muti, 59, said the initiative — carried out under its Urban Farming Programme — began in July 2022 with just one hydroponic system consisting of 40 pots contributed by the Perak Department of Agriculture.

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“At first, we only planted lettuce, and it involved just five participants (PwDs). The idea was simply to fill their free time, but it unexpectedly sparked deep interest among them.

“They were excited and felt appreciated, especially when they saw their plants thriving,” she told Bernama recently.

The project gradually expanded after the management observed the participants’ commitment and discipline, from the planting process to harvesting.

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Their dedication soon drew attention and support from outside parties, with the donation of a greenhouse in March 2024 marking a turning point that allowed the project to grow on a larger scale.

“When the greenhouse was completed, the number of participants increased from five to 10. We now have over 1,200 pots where various vegetables are cultivated, including lettuce, sawi, kangkung and kailan.

“They come here every day from 8 am to 11 am, supervised by six male instructors who guide and assign tasks to the participants,” she said.

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Noreder added that the participants’ discipline and willingness to follow instructions were key factors in ensuring smooth daily operations at the hydroponic site.

“We acknowledge that they are not like other normal people, but once you learn to understand them, it really isn’t a problem. The discipline shown by them is comparable to other normal people,” she said.

The harvested vegetables are sold to nearby residents and PwD caregivers, with the proceeds used to purchase farming supplies and provide allowances for the participants.

“Every month, we harvest our crops. That’s the advantage of hydroponic farming… it doesn’t take long before you can harvest. For example, kangkung can be harvested in 22 days, while sawi takes about 40 days.

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“While waiting for the next harvest, we continue planting new seeds so the work cycle remains continuous, ensuring a consistent or even higher yield,” she said.

She stressed that the project’s main goal is to help disabled participants develop self-reliance skills while familiarising them with structured work routines similar to those in real employment settings.

“Modern hydroponic farming is simpler and requires less maintenance compared to traditional methods, making it ideal for training disabled participants.

“With ongoing support, I truly believe that one day these participants can become independent modern farmers earning their own income,” she said.

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One of the participants Mohd Hamzah Zakaria, 25, said his interest in agriculture began when he was a student at Sekolah Kebangsaan Pendidikan Khas Ipoh, but he never expected to be involved in it on such a large scale.

“I really enjoy cultivating vegetables. I used to learn about it in school, but now I can actually do it and see the yields,” he said.

He added that seeing his vegetables grow healthily gives him a sense of satisfaction and the motivation to remain committed to the project.

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Meanwhile, Perak Department of Agriculture director Norsiyenti Othman said RM3.22 million has been allocated to the department under the 12th Malaysia Plan to implement the Urban Farming Programme.

“To date, 6,420 participants across 917 locations statewide have benefitted, with total produce valued at over RM134,000,” she said.

She added that the allocation was not only for the provision of basic infrastructure for community farming but also for training and technical support to ensure participants can manage their crops effectively.

-- BERNAMA