PERMATANI Expands International Academic Network Through Sawasdee Agri-Connect 2026 in the Land of the White Elephant

SERDANG, 17 August – The Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), continues to strengthen its international academic network through the organisation of the Sawasdee Agri-Connect 2026 mobility programme in Thailand, held from 3 to 9 August.

Organised by PERMATANI and coordinated by the Office of the Deputy Dean (Academic, Student Affairs and Alumni), Faculty of Agriculture, the programme integrated academic enrichment, experiential learning and cultural exchange. It involved a nine-member UPM delegation comprising seven students and two accompanying officers, in collaboration with Kasetsart University as the programme’s principal academic partner.

The programme served as a strategic platform for students to broaden their knowledge and exposure in agriculture and fisheries while strengthening academic ties between UPM and international higher education institutions.

During their visit to Kasetsart University, participants had the opportunity to explore various academic and research facilities, including the Faculty of Agriculture, Bee Research Excellence Centre, Horticulture Laboratory, vanilla research facilities, fruit orchards and the Soil Science Laboratory.

Participants also attended an academic session on agrotechnology, smart farming and precision agriculture in Thailand conducted by Dr. Anusron Chueasamat, Deputy Head of the Farm Mechanisation Department, Kasetsart University.

Beyond agriculture, the UPM delegation also gained exposure to the field of fisheries through a visit to the Faculty of Fisheries, Kasetsart University, under the supervision of Dr. Sukkrit Nimitkul. The visit provided participants with insights into the diversity of local fish species and aquaculture technologies, including hybrid tilapia production.

The learning experience was further enriched through visits to agricultural areas and pineapple production sites in Thailand. Participants were introduced to the Phuket pineapple (Sapparot Phuket) and Krabi Crystal pineapple, both renowned for their sweet taste and recognised as notable agricultural products in their respective regions.

According to the programme director, Adira Ismail, a third-year Bachelor of Animal Science with Honours student, direct exposure to Thailand’s agricultural ecosystem enabled students to gain a deeper understanding of agricultural approaches, technologies and practices within an international context, while connecting academic knowledge with industry realities and local communities.

“Overall, Sawasdee Agri-Connect 2026 provided UPM students with a holistic international experience by integrating academic learning, field visits and interactions with the international academic community,” she said.

The programme not only enhanced participants’ knowledge and technical competencies but also strengthened their communication, teamwork, adaptability and global thinking skills, which are essential in developing competitive agriculture graduates capable of contributing at the international level.

   

Date of Input: 19/08/2026 | Updated: 19/08/2026 | wazien