Special needs schools to benefit from organic farming initiative

In a remarkable initiative to combat food insecurity and empower communities, Brother International Malaysia has partnered with PWD Smart FarmAbility, an award-winning social enterprise, to promote sustainable agriculture through their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program.

Brother Malaysia, known for its innovative solutions in printing, labelling, and sewing, is extending its commitment to social responsibility by sponsoring 40 units of organic regenerative vegetable terrariums, termed HOPE Boxes, to four special needs schools in the Klang Valley region. This initiative aims to provide a sustainable source of nutrition and food-growing skills to vulnerable communities.

The beneficiary schools—SMK Telok Gadong, SK Telok Gadong, SK Taman Gembira, and SMK Dato Hamzah—will receive comprehensive support including training in regenerative agriculture practices. This method of farming, which avoids synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, is crucial for restoring soil health and ensuring better nutrition for school children.

A path to healthier communities

Mr. Tsutomu Takaki, Managing Director of Brother International (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, expressed his enthusiasm for the project: “This collaboration underscores our belief in the power of innovation and collaboration to drive positive change. By supporting regenerative agriculture, we can contribute to a more sustainable future for all.”

The initiative is not just about providing immediate relief but aims to equip schools with the knowledge and skills necessary for long-term self-sufficiency. The PWD Smart FarmAbility team, led by Dr. Billy Tang, a paraplegic farmer and the CEO of the enterprise, conducted workshops for teachers and students, empowering them with practical skills in regenerative soil management.

Dr. Tang highlighted the significance of this collaboration: “We are thrilled to work with Brother Malaysia, a company renowned for its innovation and social responsibility. This partnership propels our programs to reach out further and empower more communities to experience the transformative power of regenerative agriculture.”

Boosting food security

Regenerative agriculture practices foster a multitude of environmental benefits, including improved soil health, reduced climate impact through carbon sequestration, and minimized harm to biodiversity. The initiative aims to reduce malnutrition and food insecurity, particularly among children suffering from stunted growth and non-communicable diseases, by providing access to fresh, nutrient-rich organic vegetables.

As food prices continue to rise, initiatives like HOPE Boxes are essential in reducing the financial burden on families and schools. Brother Malaysia’s sponsorship and commitment to ongoing training and monitoring ensure that these schools will have a sustained supply of nutritious food.

“We believe that businesses have a responsibility to contribute to the well-being of the communities they serve. This initiative is a testament to our commitment to making a positive impact in Malaysia,” added Mr. Takaki.

By integrating regenerative agriculture into the education system, Brother Malaysia and PWD Smart FarmAbility are fostering healthier communities and promoting a healthier planet. This partnership not only addresses immediate food security needs but also paves the way for a more sustainable and self-reliant future for special needs schools in Malaysia.