Ministry Of Agriculture And Food Security Empowers B40 And Asnaf Youths Through Agrobank’s Young Graduate Agropreneur Development Program (Probest 2.0 2024)

SERDANG, 19 SEPTEMBER 2024 – The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (MAFS) has collaborated with Agrobank to continue empowering the young agropreneur community through Program Pembangunan Belia Tani (PROBEST 2.0 2024) with an allocated fund of RM1,692,990.00. It is a youth development initiative that aims to pave the way for asnaf and B40 groups in higher education institutions to gain entrepreneurship knowledge generating income. PROBEST 2.0 2024 provides youths with training and technical guidance on agriculture-based industries such as crop cultivation and livestock farming.

The 12-month program focuses on production aspects and emphasizes entrepreneurial skills. In the first six months, participants will receive a monthly allowance of RM500, start-up funds, project equipment, entrepreneurship training, and project technical assistance. For the subsequent six months, participants will be guided in expanding their businesses by applying for the Young Agropreneur Grant (GAM). Participants who successfully complete this program are encouraged to find new sites for their business expansion.

According to Agrobank’s President/Chief Executive Officer Dato’ Tengku Ahmad Badli Shah Raja Hussin, “This initiative provides opportunities for students, especially those from less privileged backgrounds, to learn skills that can become a source of income. With the agricultural and livestock knowledge gained, they can start projects immediately after completing their studies. This not only helps them increase their current income but also paves the way for future careers that can improve their standard of living. Through PROBEST, Agrobank targets additional income for participants to reach RM1500 to RM2000 per month through their own sales and to leading companies.”

He also said, “Modern agriculture implemented in PROBEST is an attraction to increase the involvement of young generations in this sector. Introducing the latest techniques and technologies can change the perception that agriculture only involves traditional methods. Exposure to the use of this technology not only increases productivity but also makes agriculture more attractive and relevant in the digital era.”

“For implementing the PROBEST 2.0 program, Agrobank has allocated a total cost of RM2.292 million. This time, the program offers participation opportunities to 61 selected students. Priority will be given to participants from asnaf and B40 groups. The higher education institutions involved are UiTM Samarahan and three vocational colleges.

PROBEST is Agrobank’s manifestation to reduce the economic gap and open opportunities for those who do not have access to resources and capital. Additionally, the focus on youth to venture into the agricultural sector indirectly contributes to the country’s food security efforts.