IN Johor’s rural heartlands, several Singaporeans have crossed the Johor–Singapore Causeway to pursue farming ventures, drawn by cheaper land and the chance to build sustainable businesses.
One of the Singaporeans, Imran Aljunied co‑founded A Little Wild, a 55‑hectare farm in Ulu Tiram, where he cultivates crops like pepper, cocoa, and pineapple while living with his family on site.
“We’re harvesting black pepper today,” the 40-year-old Singaporean told Channel News Asia.
For Imran, the farm emphasises agroforestry, mixing crops to regenerate soil and reduce reliance on chemicals.
“I like the whole idea of community sufficiency. I’m not relying on any entity for my food and water … This gives me a sense of independence and freedom, and I’m not beholden to (anyone),” the Singapore-based portal quoted Imran as saying..
His partner, Will Chua, left a senior public service role in Singapore to seek purpose and better health through farming.
Similarly, Nabilah Bagarib and her husband Ashraf Bakar run Aliyah Rizq Farm in Desaru, raising sheep, goats, and other animals while also offering agro‑tourism experiences. Their stronger Singapore dollar earnings enabled expansion, and they now supply halal meat for religious practices.
“With the current geopolitical situation, countries are more aware that becoming self-sufficient in food is important. If you don’t prioritise food security and local produce, you might be at the losing end of the bargain,” Nabila said.
Their farm saw the funding contribution from Nabila’s mother. It now bears her name, occupies the equivalent of 150 football fields and has hundreds of sheep, a few horses, camels, ostriches as well as chickens.
While farming offers autonomy and fulfilment, challenges include regulatory hurdles, capital demands, and the need to build trust with local communities.
Despite risks, these ventures highlight growing interest in food security and sustainable living. — April 25, 2026
Main photo credit: Channel News Asia
