Serdang, January 24, 2024 – Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) has outlined four strategic frameworks in the Vice-Chancellor’s 100-Day Address and the 2024 Mandate, with a special emphasis on agriculture and food security. Vice-Chancellor of UPM, Dato' Prof. Dr. Ahmad Farhan Mohd Sadullah, highlighted that these strategic frameworks serve as the core guide for UPM, focusing on agriculture and food security as the primary pillars. This aligns with the Higher Education Goals and Aspirations of the Ministry of Higher Education (KPT), the National Malaysia Madani Goals, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

“The main framework emphasizes agriculture as a core focus to ensure the long-term sustainability of national food security. It is crucial to strengthen the national food system to make it more resilient, especially in the face of the ongoing global food crisis,” he stated during the Vice-Chancellor’s 100-Day Address and 2024 Mandate event at the Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Cultural and Arts Center (PKKSSAAS), UPM.

Dato' Prof. Dr. Ahmad Farhan outlined that the first strategic direction is to reinforce the agriculture sector, targeting improvements in agriculture, livestock, and fisheries to ensure sufficient national food supply. The second direction focuses on Higher Education Goals and the Aspirations of the Ministry of Higher Education, with five main focuses announced by the Minister of Higher Education, YB Dato' Seri Diraja Dr. Zambry Abd Kadir, guiding KPT’s plans and strategies for 2024.

“The third direction is to widely disseminate the Malaysia Madani concept, emphasizing six core principles: sustainability, well-being, creativity, respect, confidence, and compassion. This aims to uplift the nation and reflect the values underpinning our efforts to build a better future,” he explained.

The fourth direction aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), requiring all UPM members to step out of their comfort zones and face future uncertainties with courage and preparedness. Dato' Prof. Dr. Ahmad Farhan emphasized that the future excellence of UPM depends on a unified effort from everyone, supported by a strong and strategic team.

“Let us all strive to contribute our best according to these four strategic frameworks to ensure the success and advancement of UPM in the future,” he concluded, ending his address with enthusiasm and hope.

With careful planning and clear strategies, UPM is committed to playing a vital role in strengthening the national agriculture sector and supporting broader strategic goals for sustainable development and societal well-being.