Page 53 - MAEPS - Journey Through the Decade

Journey through the decade: An Agro-Wonderland Tale

howground
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beyond agriculture

DATUK DR SHARIF HARON
Former MARDI Director-General
(July 2013 – October 2017)

t takes two to tango – and “When we think of nurseries we think
the analogy applies to the of Sungai Buloh. We can have the same
I Malaysian Agricultural in MAEPS to cater for those living in and
Research and Development Institute around Serdang. That’s just one small
(MARDI) and MAEPS. aspect.
Datuk Dr Sharif Haron insists MAEPS “The MAEPS Ikan Sungai & Seafood
is the best market place for MARDI to Restaurant has got it right. You see
showcase its research and development busloads of tourists ... 14 or 15 buses
work and the entity as a whole. a day ... coming just for fresh fish and
“In fact, MAEPS is an extension of seafood.
MARDI. Agriculture is not just agriculture “MAEPS can offer driving licences for
but there’s also the sciences and would-be tractor drivers or carry out
technologies,” said Sharif who served as drone classes as there is plenty of open
MARDI director-general from July 2013 to space.”
October 2017. Both of Sharif’s children tied the knot at
Now serving as chairman of MARDI MAEPS – crediting the friendly ecosystem
Consultancy & Services Sdn Bhd, Sharif as the reason for choosing the location.
said MAEPS can help market MARDI’s “It’s a great venue, there’s ample space,
good work through exhibitions, trade and the team at MAEPS is efficient and you
other forms of gatherings. don’t have to send your guests a map of
“But MAEPS should not be restricted to MAEPS. It’s a well known site.”
just agricultural stuff. I remember coming Sharif stressed MAEPS has plenty of
up with the masterplan for MAEPS offer.
during my time with MARDI and we “The go-karts and product launches can
wanted more activities like flying fox ... continue to generate income for MAEPS.
it was to combine education, agriculture, Inject more educational, recreational and
recreation and entertainment.” entertainment activities and at the same
“MAEPS is an ideal location for people time, promote MARDI’s work.
to conduct their training or boot camps, “Let MAEPS be a showground beyond
for families and friends to gather and agriculture.”
have a good time.
It can’t be all agriculture as we want
to lure people to come over again and
again.”
He added the commercialisation aspect
of MAEPS can be further developed.

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