ALECSIS G. Villarin, a third year BS Agriculture student, was one of only three Filipino students who joined 13 others from other universities throughout Asia in the Asian Association of Agricultural Colleges and Universities (AAACU) study tour held July 11-23 in Malaysia.

Hosted by the Universiti Putra Malaysia, participants were introduced to the latest innovations-in terms of technology and management practices-being applied in tropical agriculture in Malaysia. The country’s rich history and culture were also explored.

Among the highlights of the tour were visits to the ricefields and aquaculture farm in Kuala Selangor, the Halal Products Research Institute where participants learned of Islamic food standards and safety, and the Palm Oil Research Institute where they saw sophisticated equipment for agriculture.

Villarin, youngest of four children of parents Alcibiades and Eliza of Laoag City, said she was thrilled by the cross-cultural experience and felt overwhelmed at the pace of agricultural development in Malaysia. She also expressed amazement at the excellent facilities at UPM.

Six participants came from the host country, two each from Korea and Thailand, and one each from Guam, Iran, and Japan. The two other Philippine participants came from Laguna State Polytechnic University and the University of the Philippines Los Baños, host of the first AAACU study tour held last year.

Villarin shared her experiences and learnings during the CAFSD socialization program held Aug. 18 at Teatro Ilocandia.