Food insecurity affects millions worldwide - and it’s something we see here too in Malaysia. Addressing it isn’t just about access to food but ensuring it’s nutritious and part of a long-term solution that builds community resilience while creating opportunities for communities.
Through the HEINEKEN Cares programme, HEINEKEN Malaysia, together with PWD Smart FarmAbility and Sokong, is contributing to this effort. What began as a food aid initiative during the Bendera Putih movement in 2021 has grown into an ongoing commitment to support food security and empower communities.
One of the key partners in this mission is Dr. Billy, the founder of PWD Smart FarmAbility. He started his PWD (People with Disabilities) Smart FarmAbility Centre in Subang Jaya as a social enterprise that evolved from a simple drawing at the rehab centre. He decided to use his knowledge of regenerative agriculture to benefit thousands of PWD and vulnerable communities via his proprietary aquaponics and soil technology.
“Through HEINEKEN Cares, we collaborate with partners like PWD Smart FarmAbility and Sokong to support vulnerable communities. These impactful partnerships allow us to go beyond addressing immediate needs, focusing on long-term solutions that empower and uplift communities. By supporting these efforts, we’re working towards improved food security and community resilience while staying true to our purpose of Brewing the Joy of True Togetherness to Inspire a Better World,” said Renuka Indrarajah, Corporate Affairs and Legal Director of HEINEKEN Malaysia.
Expanding Sustainable Farming Initiatives
In 2022, HEINEKEN Malaysia and PWD Smart FarmAbility moved from immediate food aid to long-term food aid by building seven aquaponic satellite farms that help provide fresh, organic, and nutritious meat and vegetables for welfare centers across seven regions in Peninsular Malaysia.The programme continued in 2024 with the launch of three new satellite farms at:
En Yuan Old Folks Home
Rumah Kebajikan Wargamas Charis Sri Muda
Yayasan Sunbeam Home
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.
“Among the most impactful initiatives was the deployment of our Soil-U-tion Aquaponics Satellite Farm Proprietary System across underserved communities—specifically senior citizens’ homes, a well-mixed representation of orang asli communities, orphanages, and refugee schools. These systems empower marginalized groups to grow leafy vegetables and ethically farm freshwater tilapia through regenerative, nature-based practices that are inclusive and sustainable,” said Dr. Billy.
“Simultaneously, we introduced the HOPE Box Terrariums—compact regenerative organic vegetable climate-action greenhouses. These miniaturized food systems promote soil regeneration, enhance nutritional access, and serve as therapeutic tools for persons with disabilities, elders, and children alike. They require minimal space, zero synthetic inputs, and offer an entry point into sustainable food production for all,” he explained.
To date, more than 8,000 HOPE Boxes have been distributed, directly nourishing lives, creating purpose-driven experiences, and empowering vulnerable communities with accessible climate-action farming.
Inspiring Transformations on the Ground
The ripple effects have been extraordinary. From senior citizens rediscovering purpose in their later years, to young refugees leading their own garden spaces, we’ve seen how regenerative agriculture can transform lives.
At Rumah Kebajikan Wargamas Charis, residents had the joy of preparing a delicious pot of clear fish ball soup using freshly harvested New Zealand spinach, organically grown in their HOPE Box Terrarium. The pesticide-free spinach maintained its vibrant green color even after being reheated, preserving its full nutritional value. The residents could truly taste the difference, showcasing the rewarding benefits of cultivating their own fresh produce at home.
A resident of the senior citizen home shared his positive experience, stating that before participating in the project, he often felt lost and aimless. However, by tending to the vegetables and caring for the fish pond, he found a new sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Similarly, another beneficiary expressed her pride in learning to grow vegetables, make compost, and contribute to the environment. She shared how the project has empowered her to make a positive impact on her family and community.
The launch event at Rumah Charis was further graced by the presence of Y.B. Tuan Preakas A/L Sampunathan, ADUN Kota Kemuning, whose support added to the significance of the occasion.
"So far, we have raised RM16,500 in donations from the public, a testament to the generosity and kindness of our community. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has contributed—your support is making a real difference in the lives of those in need. Thank you for being part of this journey towards sustainability and resilience!” said Dr Billy.
A Celebration of Community Resilience
Through HEINEKEN Malaysia’s collaboration with Sokong and PWD Smart FarmAbility, the campaign helped to cultivate ecosystems that go beyond just providing food, fostering self-sufficiency, restoring dignity, and creating meaningful change with lasting impact.
In the spirit of giving, HEINEKEN Cares and Sokong by Malaysiakini came together to support NGOs and social enterprises in building stronger communities.
While the campaign has ended, its impact continues. Find out more about PWD SmartFarmAbility and learn more about HEINEKEN Malaysia’s sustainability efforts.
The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.
