PENANG, 19 January 2026 – A group of students from the University of Tasmania (UTAS), Australia were taken for a visit to the Muda Agricultural Development Authority (MADA) in Kedah under the UniGo 2026 Programme, organised by Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM).

They were brought to the MADA premises to better understand sustainable practices in padi-planting, the use of modern technology in agriculture, and also the role of the ‘padi’ sector in ensuring the nation’s food security.

The academic and experiential learning trip was meant to provide the international students with the exposure to tropical agricultural systems, especially sustainable padi-planting practices as conducted by MADA, which is the main agency responsible for agricultural development in Kedah, the ‘rice bowl’ state of the nation.

Throughout the visit, the students were briefed on the integrated approach to irrigation, sustainable agricultural practices, and challenges in the agricultural sector in dealing with climate change.

The students were also shown a padi-planting demonstration and the use of drones in monitoring the produce and in the management of the fields, which are all related to the smart farming approach widely-practised by MADA.

The programme was also held to support the aims of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 2: Zero Hunger; SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production; SDG 13: Climate Action; and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals. These goals collectively aim to strengthen food security measures and foster international academic cooperation.

USM extends its deepest gratitude to the Director of MADA Management Services, Sharifah Nur Alia Syed Mansor, for the warm and gracious reception throughout the visit.

Appreciation is also conveyed to all MADA officers for their comprehensive briefings and for conducting the paddy-planting demonstrations.

The visit has not only enriched the learning experience of the UTAS students beyond the lecture halls, but it has also enhanced international relations between USM and international institutions in areas of education, research, and sustainable development.

Original Text & Photos: School of Distance Education, USM/ Translation: Mazlan Hanafi Basharudin