By, Adibah Amir
On 4 Mac 2025, 20 students from Universitas Darussalam (UNIDA) Gontor, Kabupaten Ponorogo, Indonesia, explored IIUM’s Stingless Bee Sanctuary. This enriching visit, part of IIUM’s Edutourism program, offered UNIDA students a unique opportunity to engage with nature and experience beekeeping firsthand.
Guided by the members of the Kelulut Research Group, the students delved into the fascinating world of discovering stingless bees, and learning about their unique biology, behaviour, and environment importance. The students eagerly observed the intricacies of hive structures, for many, it was their first experience seeing stingless bees up close and discovering their vital role in supporting biodiversity.
The visit also offered a valuable history lesson. The students were surprised to learn that Malaysian stingless beekeeping traces its roots back to knowledge transfer from Indonesian stingless beekeepers. Since stingless bee honey was recognised as Malaysia’s first local superfood in 2016, its popularity has grown significantly. Various stingless beekeeping communities have emerged across the country, with universities actively driving research and innovation to support the industry.
Today, the Kelulut Research Group continues to foster regional collaboration, among other, collaborating with Pengusaha Madu Kelulut Mikro Kecil Menengah in Pekanbaru, Indonesia.
The visit has deepened the students’ understanding of sustainable beekeeping and strengthened the cultural and academic ties between Malaysia and Indonesia, highlighting the shared commitment to environmental conservation and knowledge exchange.
Participants on board the university’s buggies.
Tc. Ahmad Suhairi addressing participants’ inquiries.
Up-close moments with some hives.
(These are the views of Dr. Adibah Amir, affiliated with the Department of Manufacturing and Materials Engineering, Kulliyyah of Engineering, International Islamic University Malaysia which do not represent IIUM Today’s.)
