By: Noor Eszereen Juferi
PUTRAJAYA, 4 November – Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) reinforced its position as a national leader in research and innovation for food security through its strong presence at the Festival of Ideas (FOI) 2025 today.
UPM Vice-Chancellor, Dato’ Professor Ir. Dr. Ahmad Farhan Mohd Sadullah, joined the EM Chats Live Podcast session held in conjunction with the festival, in addition to attending the FOI 2025 opening ceremony. The event was officiated by Malaysia’s Deputy Prime Minister, Dato’ Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, and witnessed by the Minister of Higher Education, Dato’ Seri Diraja Dr. Zambry Abdul Kadir.
Dato’ Professor Ir. Dr. Ahmad Farhan said UPM’s active participation across multiple FOI components reflects the university’s strength as a national driver of research and innovation, particularly in food security.
“UPM is involved in several key areas, including a dedicated food security exhibition that highlights the university’s role as a leader in this agenda. We also chair the National Food Security Nexus, a significant development that strengthens UPM’s contribution to policy-making and solutions for the country’s food security challenges,” he said.
He added that UPM’s presence at FOI 2025 not only showcases the university’s research capability, but also elevates its visibility among various stakeholders through its academic and technological expertise.
“UPM brings forward new ideas and insights that can contribute to solving real societal challenges. I hope our researchers fully utilise this platform to connect with relevant ministries and agencies within their areas of focus,” he said.
A key attraction at UPM’s booth was the UPM Idea Vault, led by Putra Science Park, featuring a variety of innovations, patents and technology solutions with strong commercialisation potential.
This year’s FOI also saw the participation of more than 1,000 UPM students, who engaged in workshops, exhibitions and interactive sessions. Their involvement provides valuable exposure beyond the classroom, deepening their understanding of how ideas, innovation and collaboration translate into impactful action for society.
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With its theme “MADANI: Shaping the Future, Realising Ideas”, FOI 2025 aims to democratise ideas and elevate the culture of knowledge as a foundation for national progress. The festival also supports the aspiration to position Putrajaya as City of Ideas – a global reference point for intellectual discourse, innovation ecosystems and future-focused thinking.
