In an effort to expand its successful Agro-Eco-Edu-Tourism (AEET) program, SEAMEO BIOTROP held a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) on 3 September 2024, in collaboration with Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM). The meeting, conducted via Zoom, focused on gathering insights and coordinating the implementation of the AEET program throughout Southeast Asia.

Ms. Sri Widayanti, Acting Deputy Director for Administration of SEAMEO BIOTROP, highlighted the program's impact, stating, "Through AEET, we have facilitated over 3,000 visitors, as well as graduate and postgraduate students conducting their research at SEAMEO BIOTROP. USM will be our partner in replicating the AEET program in Malaysia".

Key participants in the FGD included Dr. Darlina Md Naim and Rosazlina Rusly from USM, alongside Dr. Rhomi Ardiansyah from the Faculty of Forestry at Universitas Gadjah Mada, who served as a resource person. The discussion was also attended by managers, heads of sections, and unit heads from SEAMEO BIOTROP.

Dr. Rhomi Ardiansyah presented the framework of AEET, outlining its development history and future directions. He detailed the three stages of AEET—pre-development, development, and post-development. The pre-development stage involves creating a master plan that includes site analysis, resource analysis, landscape planning, and a feasibility study. The development stage focuses on implementing the master plan, enhancing tourism programs, optimizing facilities, expanding collaboration networks, and developing human resources. The post-development stage ensures the sustainability of the program through maintenance, program updates, and replication.

Dr. Rhomi also emphasized the minimum requirements for successful AEET replication, including strong commitment, effective management, potential or existing facilities, developed products, environmental education packages, and showcase areas.

Dr. Darlina from USM provided an update on Malaysia's preparation for AEET implementation, specifically the "Anjung Flora" project. The project includes various components such as BSF (Black Soldier Fly), aquaponics, mushroom cultivation, greenhouses, ponds, an insectarium, and wooden tree plantations. Progress is currently focused on procuring materials and forming teams, with experts assigned to oversee each site.

The FGD marks a significant step towards replicating the AEET program across Southeast Asia, aiming to foster sustainable agro-eco-tourism and educational opportunities in the region.