Representatives from TFIW, Vidacity and BARQ8 recently visited YHL Aquatic’s integrated aquaculture facilities in Desaru, Malaysia.

The visit focused on understanding the integration and interface of aquaculture operations with Agropolis development within the Deep Ocean Water Industrial Park (DOWIP). Discussions covered aquaculture production systems, operational requirements, and opportunities to incorporate sustainable food production as part of the DOWIP ecosystem.

The visit also provided BARQ8 with a first-hand introduction to the Food Hub concepts being developed within DOWIP, allowing stakeholders to better understand the project’s vision and potential synergies across agriculture, aquaculture, food production and resource sustainability.

One of the highlights of the visit was the opportunity to experience YHL’s premium shrimp products directly from the farm, including sashimi-grade shrimp weighing up to 50 grams, served fresh from the cultivation ponds. The delegation also toured the vineyard located within the aquaculture precinct, showcasing the unique integration of aquaculture and agriculture within a single development.

The vineyard concept generated particular interest for its potential application within the DOWIP Agropolis. Through the use of controlled-environment agriculture, similar systems could be adapted for the cultivation of Muscatel grapes in Oman. Muscatel grapes were notably praised by one of the Singapore’s founding fathers for their reputed health and medicinal benefits. The cultivation of such specialty crops may form part of future research and development initiatives within the DOWIP Agropolis, supporting innovation in sustainable agriculture and high-value food production.

The visit provided valuable insights as TFIW continues to explore innovative and sustainable food production models for future implementation in Oman.