Beyond Theory: Industry-Relevant HACCP Learning in Real-World Food Safety

This semester marked a key milestone in our commitment to purpose-led learning through the successful completion of an industry-embedded Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) project. Conducted in collaboration with eight Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) food manufacturers across the Klang Valley, Kuala Lumpur (Cheras), and Teluk Intan, Perak, the initiative meaningfully bridged classroom learning with real-world food safety practice. These SMEs play a vital role in Malaysia’s food supply chain, making the collaboration both timely and impactful.

Designed to connect theory with application, the project moved students beyond academic discussions into active production environments. Through site visits and field engagement, students observed manufacturing workflows, hygiene practices, and critical control points within functioning food processing facilities, gaining first-hand insight into the operational realities of food safety management. Working closely with their assigned companies, student teams reviewed existing practices, identified gaps in food safety controls, and developed practical, step-by-step HACCP plans tailored to each company’s operational capacity and readiness. These plans were designed as working documents that SMEs may adopt and refine as they strengthen their food safety management systems.

The project culminated in a formal evaluation led by two respected industry professionals, Mr. Abdul Hadi Bin Ismail, Adjunct Lecturer and representative from the International Food Safety Training Centre (IFSTC), Ministry of Health and Ms. Alicia Kho Muei Gek, an experienced Food Safety Consultant. Their involvement added professional rigour and provided students with authentic industry-level feedback on regulatory expectations and implementation challenges.

Overall, the initiative reflects a deliberate teaching and learning approach grounded in purpose, relevance, and responsibility. By exposing students early to the realities of food safety implementation, the project reinforces the understanding that effective food safety systems rely not only on documentation, but on shared commitment across the food chain, preparing graduates to apply food safety principles confidently in professional practice.