On 14 June 2026, a group of students from the Civil and Environmental Engineering Programme, Faculty of Civil Engineering & Technology (FKTA), Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP), successfully carried out a high-impact community project entitled Sustainable Smart Fertigation System at Kompleks Penyayang Dr. Siti Hasmah, Perlis. The project was implemented under the course AMJ41403 – Engineers for Society (EFS) and was guided by the Service-Learning Malaysia (SULAM) approach, which integrates engineering knowledge with direct community engagement.
The primary objective of the project was to develop and install a smart fertigation system capable of automatically supplying water and nutrients to plants. The initiative aimed to address challenges faced by the complex in maintaining its plants due to limited manpower and prolonged hot weather conditions. The system was designed based on efficient irrigation principles to optimise water usage and improve plant survival and growth.
The program involved a series of activities, including site preparation through community clean-up efforts, installation of the fertigation system, planting sessions, knowledge-sharing activities, and demonstrations on the operation and maintenance of the system for the residents. Through these activities, participants were exposed to modern agricultural technologies while gaining valuable insights into sustainable farming practices and efficient resource management.
The project also supports the aspirations of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 2: Zero Hunger, SDG 4: Quality Education, and SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, by promoting food security, knowledge transfer, and the sustainable use of water and nutrient resources.
The project team would like to express its sincere appreciation to the management of Kompleks Penyayang Dr. Siti Hasmah for their support and cooperation throughout the implementation of the program. Appreciation is also extended to all participating students for their commitment, teamwork, and dedication in making this initiative a success.
It is hoped that this project will continue to benefit the residents while promoting environmental sustainability, community well-being, and the practical application of engineering solutions to address real-world challenges.