Sowing Hope, Growing Change: HEINEKEN Cares & PWD Smart FarmAbility Expand Satellite Farming Efforts

Shah Alam, 8 February 2025 – In communities where food security remains a persistent concern, collective effort is crucial to empower individuals and drive lasting change. Today, Heineken Malaysia Berhad (HEINEKEN Malaysia), PWD Smart FarmAbility, and Sokong celebrate the establishment of a second Satellite Farm through the HEINEKEN Cares programme.

The launch at Rumah Kebajikan Wargamas Charis in Shah Alam marks a significant milestone. With the new Satellite Farm, residents are empowered to engage in sustainable farming, gaining direct access to fresh, nutritious produce. This initiative reduces their reliance on external aid, while fostering a renewed sense of purpose, pride and community within their home.

Scaling Impact: How Satellite Farms are Transforming Communities

Since 2022, PWD Smart FarmAbility has established seven satellite farms at welfare homes across Malaysia through the HEINEKEN Cares programme. In 2024, they will further expand this initiative by introducing three more satellite farms at welfare homes in Selangor.

These Satellite Farms utilise the innovative Soil-U-tion Aquaponics Proprietary System, which combines both soil-based and soil-less farming techniques. This unique system enables the cultivation of vegetables alongside the rearing of red tilapia fish, offering an efficient solution for food production that doesn’t require prior farming experience.

The first Satellite Farm, launched at En Yuan Old Folks Home, has already demonstrated success. Home to over 30 elderly residents, En Yuan previously faced monthly expenses of up to RM34,000. Through the farm, residents have access to fresh produce, and any surplus is sold at affordable prices to B40 communities, making nutritious food accessible to families in need. The income generated from farm sales contributes to the home’s operational costs, creating a self-sustaining economic loop.

Building on this success, the third and final Satellite Farm will soon be launched at Yayasan Sunbeams Home, where its residents will benefit from access to fresh produce while engaging in PWD Smart FarmAbility’s sustainability programme. This initiative aims to equip them with valuable agricultural skills and potential pathways to further education, with support from Majlis Pemerkasaan Pendidikan Negara (MPPN) for diploma and master’s certifications in sustainability practices.

Upgraded Satellite Farms for Greater Impact

To further scale impact and improve efficiency, the new Satellite Farms are equipped with the next-generation Fiberglass Tank Model, designed for long-term sustainability and scalable community-driven food production. This enhanced model represents a major leap forward in regenerative agriculture, ensuring food security while fostering economic independence.

Previously, each tank supported six growing towers, but with the latest innovations, the system now features eight growing towers, significantly increasing plant productivity. The number of planting pots has expanded to 480, maximising crop yield, while fish capacity has increased from 200 to 300 fish per year, ensuring a steady, sustainable protein source. Additionally, each farm can now produce 7 to 9 kilograms of fresh vegetables per month, delivering locally grown, nutrient-dense food without refrigeration. With a zero-food miles, zero-waste, and energy-free system, the Satellite Farms operate as fully self-sustaining ecosystems that align with climate action and nature-positive principles.

By integrating these innovations, the Satellite Farm initiative not only enhances food production but also strengthens community resilience, reduces reliance on external food systems, and promotes a more sustainable, self-sufficient future.

A Celebration of Community Resilience

As HEINEKEN Malaysia, Sokong, and PWD Smart FarmAbility continue to cultivate these ecosystems, they are doing more than just providing food—they are fostering self-sufficiency, restoring dignity, and creating meaningful change that will last for generations.

“Through our HEINEKEN Cares programme, we are passionate about creating lasting change for Malaysian communities. Today, we celebrate not just the launch of another satellite farm, but the power of collaboration in driving real, positive impact. Together, we are building stronger and more resilient communities,” Renuka Indrarajah, Corporate Affairs & Legal Director of HEINEKEN Malaysia said.

Join the Movement

Change doesn’t happen alone. Your contribution can make a lasting impact. For every RM10 you donate, HEINEKEN Malaysia will contribute RM40, amplifying your impact and nurturing sustainable futures.

Join us today: https://sokong.org/campaigns/heineken-cares-2024

Discover more about HEINEKEN Malaysia’s sustainability journey and how you can make a difference.