Written and Translated by: Nur Fazrini Alia Abd Majid 

Edited by: Suziana Che Wil 

Shah Alam, 20 January 2026 – The Serdang Sun Alumni Magazine Secretariat conducted a special interview session with Encik Hafidz Arifin, a Universiti Putra Malaysia alumnus from the Class of 2009 and former resident of Sixth College, who is the founder of AKE Benefigs Arus Sdn. Bhd., a company actively involved in the high-value fig industry in Malaysia.

Encik Hafidz began his career in the oil and gas industry and gained professional experience abroad before deciding to venture into entrepreneurship. In 2018, he established AKE Benefigs with the vision of developing fig cultivation into a commercially viable and high-impact agricultural enterprise. At present, the company operates six main farms located in Kuala Langat, FELDA Sungai Tengi Selatan, Janda Baik, Pasir Puteh in Kelantan, Jasin in Melaka, and Shah Alam, Selangor.

AKE Benefigs cultivates 28 fast-yielding fig varieties with strong market potential. All parts of the fig tree, including the leaves, fruits and stems, are fully utilised in the production of various food- and health-based products. To date, the company has developed 10 products, including Fig Sambal, Fiq Leaves Sachet and Bio Fiq Booster.

During the interview, Encik Hafidz also shared insights on the health benefits of figs for both women and men. For women, figs are known to support menstrual regulation and fertility, enhance breast milk production, and help prevent postnatal constipation. For men, fig consumption may help improve energy and stamina, balance male hormones, and support prostate health.

Encik Hafidz further expressed his aspiration to establish the largest fig farm in Malaysia, with a future production target of up to one tonne per day. Concluding the interview, he advised young people and members of the UPM community to seek experience early in life, value knowledge, and strive to become individuals who contribute positively to others and society.

This interview is expected to serve as a source of inspiration for UPM alumni and students, while highlighting the significant potential of high-value agriculture as a sustainable and impactful entrepreneurial sector.

Date of Input: 23/01/2026 | Updated: 23/01/2026 | suziana.wil