By, Adibah Amir
A Stingless Beekeeping and Downstream Product Course was successfully conducted at the Kulliyyah of Engineering, International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM), Gombak, on 9 May 2026, through a collaboration between Local Agenda 21 Kuala Lumpur Unit (LA21 KL) of Kuala Lumpur City Hall, Kelulut Research Group and Kelab Kelulut Lestari IIUM.
The programme brought together participants from school gardens and community gardens in Kuala Lumpur, offering a valuable opportunity to gain hands-on knowledge in sustainable beekeeping practices and value-added product development based on stingless bee (kelulut) resources.
Hands-on Learning at IIUM Kelulut Sanctuary
Starting on a cool Saturday morning, participants visited the IIUM Kelulut Sanctuary at Rectory Hill to learn practical harvesting techniques. During the session, participants were exposed to various species of stingless bees bred at the sanctuary.
They also experienced tasting different varieties of kelulut honey, ranging from the very sweet Tetragonula leaviceps colony to the distinctly sour Tetrigona apicalis colony, highlighting the diversity and unique characteristics of each species.
At noon, participants took a short walk around the unique architectural landscape of IIUM before performing Zohor prayer at the Kulliyyah of Engineering musolla, reinforcing the integration of learning and spiritual reflection throughout the programme.
Exploring Downstream Product Innovation
The course continued in the afternoon with hands-on sessions on producing honey-based beauty soap and honey moisturising cream. Participants were given the opportunity to participate in the product development processes using kelulut honey as a key natural ingredient.to enhance their acquired skill, and guided through the formulation techniques, ingredient selection, and basic
These sessions introduced participants to the concept of downstream products, demonstrating how raw natural resources can be transformed into value-added items with commercial potential.
Promoting Sustainable Urban Agriculture
The course aimed to promote awareness and practical skills in urban agriculture and biodiversity conservation, particularly through stingless beekeeping, which is known for its eco-friendly nature, pollination benefits, and low maintenance requirements.
Participants were introduced to the ecological importance of stingless bees as pollinators, contributing significantly to plant reproduction, food security, and environmental sustainability. The programme also emphasised how community-based beekeeping initiatives can support greener cities and resilient food systems.
As the programme concludes, it has served as a meaningful platform to empower participants with practical skills, environmental awareness, and entrepreneurial insights. By integrating sustainable practices with product innovation, the initiative supports the development of community-driven solutions in urban agriculture.
Dr. Adibah Bt. Amir is an Assistant Professor from the Department of Manufacturing and Materials Engineering, Kulliyyah of Engineering, International Islamic University Malaysia.***
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