Encourage urban farming for city dwellers

Published on: Sunday, March 26, 2023

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This innovative agricultural method has the potential to bring about significant economic development as Malaysia has a high population density, limited arable land and a rapidly growing urban population.

VERTICAL farming has become a popular method for cultivating crops in urban areas, with the potential to revolutionise the way we think about food production. Vertical farming refers to the practice of growing crops in vertically stacked layers using artificial light and climate-controlled environments, such as in urban high-rise buildings or other indoor spaces, for example, hydroponics, aeroponics, and aquaponics.

Introducing vertical farming into urban areas may help reduce poverty, contribute to food safety and enhance the three pillars of sustainability: environmental, economic and social.

This innovative agricultural method has the potential to bring about significant economic development as Malaysia has a high population density, limited arable land and a rapidly growing urban population.

With the increasing demand for food traditional farming methods may not be sufficient to meet the needs of the population. By using vertical farming, it is possible to grow crops in a much smaller space. Malaysia’s tropical climate is ideal for growing crops year-round, and vertical farming technology can be tailored to suit the local climate conditions.

Furthermore, vertical farming in urban areas brings fresh produce closer to consumers, reducing transportation costs and minimising food waste. By reducing the need for land, water and pesticides, vertical farming can reduce production costs. Additionally, vertical farming can provide employment opportunities for local communities, contributing to economic growth.

Moreover, the technology behind vertical farming can be exported, creating new opportunities for Malaysian companies to develop and market new products. In recent years, several vertical farming initiatives have been launched, including the Vertical Farming Innovation Hub in Kuala Lumpur.

The hub provides training and support for entrepreneurs and start-ups in the vertical farming sector, helping them to develop innovative solutions to meet the needs of the local market. As such, it is an area that policymakers and entrepreneurs should pay close attention to in the coming years.

Lecturer

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