In a commendable initiative, the Master of Business Administration (MBA) students from Azman Hashim International Business School (AHIBS), specializing in a community program from the Business Ethics, Responsibility, and Sustainability (BERS) subject, have launched the “Bees and Beans” project. This project, guided by Dr. Rafidah, aims to foster community development and sustainability through innovative agricultural practices.
The project, conducted in collaboration with Sekolah Tahfiz Anak Yatim Al-Kitab, Beranang, was officially launched by AHIBS Dean, Prof. Dr. Rosmini Omar. It focuses on increasing the production of kelulut (Stingless bees) honey using acacia trees the UTM Bee-modular system, providing the school with additional income sources, and teaching the students essential skills in honey production and entrepreneurship.
A Vision for Sustainable Impact, the Bees and Beans project is a testament to AHIBS’s commitment to integrating ethical business practices and sustainability into its curriculum. By working closely with the community at Sekolah Tahfiz Anak Yatim Al-Kitab, the MBA students are applying their academic knowledge to real-world scenarios, fostering a spirit of social responsibility and environmental stewardship.
The project aims to significantly increase kelulut honey the production of honey by providing their source of nectar from acacia trees, known for their beneficial properties in honey farming. This approach not only supports local biodiversity but also enhances the quality and quantity of honey produced. By boosting honey production, the project provides Sekolah Tahfiz Anak Yatim Al-Kitab with a sustainable source of additional income. This financial support is crucial for the school, which caters to the education and welfare of orphaned children.
The students at Sekolah Tahfiz Anak Yatim Al-Kitab are actively involved in the honey production process, learning valuable skills that can contribute to their future livelihoods. These skills include beekeeping, marketing, honey harvesting, and understanding the importance of sustainable agricultural practices.
During the launch event, Prof. Dr. Rosmini Omar emphasized the significance of community engagement in driving sustainable development. “The Bees and Beans project is not just about honey production; it’s about creating a model for sustainable community development. It showcases how education, ethical business practices, and community collaboration can lead to meaningful and lasting impact,” she said.
The event also featured hands-on activities where students from both AHIBS and Sekolah Tahfiz Anak Yatim Al-Kitab participated in planting acacia trees and setting up beekeeping equipment. The enthusiasm and dedication of the participants highlighted the project’s potential to transform lives and create a positive environmental impact.
As the Bees and Beans project progresses, AHIBS aims to expand its reach and impact. Future plans include increasing the number of acacia trees planted, enhancing the honey production process, and exploring additional sustainable agricultural practices that can benefit the community.
The success of this project underscores the importance of integrating sustainability and ethical responsibility into business education. AHIBS remains committed to empowering its students to become leaders in sustainable development, ensuring a brighter and more sustainable future for all.