JOHOR BARU: A primary school here has brought its environmental initiatives to the next level by setting up two hydroponic farming systems to give pupils a hands-on learning experience.

SJK(C) Foon Yew 2 headmaster Ramer Chong said the project, which started early this month, was the latest addition to its ongoing environmental programmes.

“Introducing the hydroponic system will enhance our pupils’ understanding of sustainable agriculture and promote eco-friendly practices. The project involves 1,275 pupils and 70 teachers where they can also learn entrepreneurial skills through modern and green technology,” she said in an interview.

Chong said the hydroponic farming method used water as a growing medium and the plants thrive in a nutrient-rich solution.

“This promotes faster growth while using significantly less water compared to conventional soil-based agriculture,” she said, adding that representatives from the hydroponic system operator would visit the school regularly to maintain and guide them on its usage.Chong also said the two hydroponic farming systems were contributed by OCBC Bank (M) Bhd through its Taman Molek branch.

“The system complements our ongoing green initiatives, which started in 2019,” she added.

The school has since planted and harvested its first batch of kangkung, which was presented to the bank as a way of thanking it for its contribution.

Chong said the second batch of vegetables – Chinese cabbage – had been planted and scheduled to be harvested when the school session resumes next week after the term holiday ends.

“It has not been decided whether the second batch of vegetables will be sold or shared with the community,” she added.

Since the regular school sessions resumed following the Covid-19 pandemic, SJK(C) Foon Yew 2 has been actively participating in green practices such as monthly recycling drives and making compost from food waste collected from its canteen. On average, Chong said the school received about 7,000kg of recyclable items during each recycling drive.The school has also appointed about 60 Sustainability Club leaders, who are pupils actively participating in environmentally- friendly activities including giving public speeches about environmental issues.

Meanwhile, OCBC’s Taman Molek branch senior manager Lim Chu Luan said the project was part of its efforts to engage with the community.

“We usually engage with the people, assess their needs and assist them in the spirit of the long-term good of society. We are pleased to help the school and hope the pupils and teachers will have a positive learning environment with the project,” she said.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/09/19/hydroponic-farming-gives-pupils-hands-on-experience