KUALA LUMPUR – As urban populations grow and living costs rise, urban farming has become an increasingly vital solution to food insecurity, sustainability, and community-building.
In the heart of Pantai Dalam, Manivannan Letchumanan is transforming a modest patch of land at PPR Pantai Ria into a thriving mini farm that nourishes both body and soul.
For over two years, Manivannan, an IT consultant by profession, has been cultivating a range of vegetables – including chillies, cucumbers, brinjals, bitter gourd, and winged beans – with the aim of supporting those in need.
Speaking to Scoop, Manivannan said that by sharing the produce from his farm with those in need, he believes he is making a tangible impact on the community.
He also added that he donates his crops to up to six or seven families, helping the residents of PPR Pantai Ria save between RM4 and RM5 a day on vegetable expenses, providing essential relief to their household budgets.
“I have been involved in community work around Lembah Pantai, and I’ve been working on this mini farm for over two years now, located at Pantai Ria, between blocks C and D, right next to the KTM railway tracks.
“This farm is a way to bring people together, regardless of race, religion, or income. The urban farming I’m doing is crucial because it can help families save around RM 4-5 a day on vegetable purchases.
“Together with a group of friends, I grow a variety of vegetables and leaves here, such as chillies, bird’s eye chillies, bitter gourd, cucumbers, brinjals, pandan leaves, banana leaves, and winged beans.
“Anything and everything we grow is shared back with the community. It’s not for sale. We aim to give as much as possible to low-income families. This helps foster unity among everyone.
“On average, we contribute chillies to six or seven families a day, and other vegetables go to about five families a day. We make our own fertilisers using composting methods. The goat manure is sourced from a farm in Cyberjaya, and we try to handle the rest ourselves.
“As for the seeds, we gather them from the plants we grow here and germinate them ourselves. Most of the germination process happens at my house, after which I bring the young plants to the farm. I even grow some vegetables at home in Bangsar, and anyone who passes by is welcome to take them,” said Manivannan when met.
At the same time, Manivannan hopes to see more people taking up urban farming initiatives, as he believes it can play a significant role in combating environmental issues and reducing carbon footprints.
“Urban farming is not just about growing food – it’s about growing sustainability. By taking responsibility for what we consume, we’re reducing the need for long supply chains that contribute to carbon emissions. Every vegetable grown locally is a step towards a more sustainable future.
Manivannan also highlighted that while climate change is increasingly threatening food security, urban farming offers a practical solution.
“It’s a way for communities to adapt to the challenges of global warming, protect the environment, and ensure that future generations can thrive without relying on harmful industrial practices.
“In terms of my farm, I don’t wish to expand this effort individually – I’d much prefer to work on a collective basis. Because of the work I’ve done here, five to six families have joined my initiative, cleared some space, and started planting vegetables themselves.
The urban farmer also shared that through this initiative, he made meaningful connections with people in the area.
“It’s emotionally rewarding when we bond over both good and challenging times.
“The sense of community is strong, and it’s wonderful to see. Our society was built on the values of sharing and supporting one another, and I’m proud to be part of that tradition,” Manivannan added.
In 2019, it was reported that Manivannan, together with several volunteers, also distributed milk cartons to 600 families at PPR Sri Pantai Block 100 and 102. – February 1, 2025