SERDANG, 4 Dec – Minister of Tourism Malaysia, Dato’ Sri Dr. Ng Yen Yen believes Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) has the potential to be the first agrotourism university in Malaysia.
She came to this conclusion based on UPM’s advantages over Malaysian universities such as its vast campus area, knowledge and expertise in agriculture and forestry as well as its large student population.
“In 2011, a total of 24.7mil tourists visited Malaysia, generating a revenue of RM58.3bil for the country. Should the concept of an agrotourism university be actualized, UPM could help to significantly increase the revenue from tourism.
“UPM could utilize students as university tour guides. This would be an opportunity for students to gain experience as well as earn some side income.
“The ministry and UPM will discuss further the pioneer project to transform the university into an agrotourism centre,” she said at the simultaneous launching of the “1Malaysia Discount Card” and the “Electric Energy Saving Campaign” held here.
In addition, she said the launching of the “1Malaysia Discount Card” (KADS1M) is one of the government’s efforts to lessen the cost of living for students in their respective institutions around the country.
“KADS1M is also a form of corporate social responsibility (CSR) for participating companies. It is one of the platforms provided by the government to encourage private sector involvement in projects that contribute to the well being of society.
“KADS1M will benefit more than 1.5mil students of institutes of higher learning (IHLs) by offering discounts ranging from two to 60 percent on various items and services such as reading materials, stationery, food and beverages, health products as well as sports equipment at selected stores,” she added.
News prepared by Muhamad Najkhan Mazlan, 0389466011 and photo br Marina Ismail, 03-89468985
