Agroecology is a science, a set of practices and a social movement (Agroecology Coalition, 2015).  Agroecology is “an integrated approach that simultaneously applies ecological and social concepts and principles to the design and management of food and agricultural systems” that “aims to optimize the interactions between plants, animals, humans and the environment while taking into account the social aspects that must be addressed for a sustainable and equitable food system”. Agroecology has 13 principles which are summarised as in the picture below:

Figure 1: Principles of Agroecology

Source: Agroekologi Europe (2025).

The principles of agroecology, as illustrated in the diagram above, provide various positive benefits for society, the economy, and the environment. Among these are the restoration of soil fertility, the empowerment of women, increased yields, improved farmer well-being, and enhanced biodiversity (CAP, 2022).

Agricultural policy plays an important role in transforming the agricultural system towards greater sustainability. The National Food Security Policy Action Plan (2021–2025) has included agroecology as one of its key support strategies to address problematic and degraded land resulting from unsustainable farming practices. Through this strategy, it is hoped that the country’s food production and system will become more sustainable, thereby strengthening national food security.

Rujukan:

Agroecology Coalition (2025). What is Agroecology. https://agroecology-coalition.org/what-is-agroecology/

Agroecology Europe (2025). The 13 Principles of Agroecology. https://www.agroecology-europe.org/the-13-principles-of-agroecology/

Persatuan Pengguna-Pengguna Pulau Pinang (2022). Agroekologi untuk Semua Inisiatif di Malaysia. https://consumer.org.my/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/4-Julai-2023-Agroecology-for-All_Malay-version.pdf

Kementerian Pertanian dan Keterjaminan Makanan (2023). Pelan Tindakan Dasar Sekuriti Makanan Negara 2021-2025. https://www.kpkm.gov.my/images/04-dasar-agromakanan/pelan_tindakan_dasar_sekuriti_makanan%202021-2025/Pelan_Tindakan_DSMN_2021-2025-min.pdf

Date of Input: 30/10/2025 | Updated: 30/10/2025 | ilyaaqeela