Conceptual Paper: Internet of Everything (IoE) for Student’s Education, Urban Vertical Agriculture, Community and Parent’s Hands-On Project
List of Authors
Mior Harris Mior Harun, Mohammad Oryza Ananda, Mohd Hafiez Ahmad, Peck Leong Tan
Keyword
Internet of Things (IoT), Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), Urban Vertical Agriculture, Generation Z & Generation Alpha
Abstract
The integration of the Internet of Things (IoT) within Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and urban agriculture represents a critical step in advancing Malaysia’s Industry 4.0 agenda. This conceptual paper explores the application of IoT-enabled systems, specifically the ESP32 microcontroller, in promoting sustainable urban vertical agriculture while simultaneously fostering educational innovation and community engagement. Urban vertical agriculture is highlighted as a transformative solution to address declining youth interest in agriculture by reframing it as a high-tech, sustainable, and socially responsible career pathway. Drawing from case studies such as hydroponic container agriculture in Mauritius, the study demonstrates the scalability of standardized vertical hydroponic systems to Malaysia’s climatic and urban contexts. The proposed model underscores the importance of embedding IoT devices - such as soil moisture, temperature, and humidity sensors - into vertical agriculture practices to optimize resource efficiency, ensure food security, and enhance environmental sustainability. Furthermore, this paper argues that aligning standardized hydroponic technologies with TVET curricula can cultivate essential technical competencies among graduates, who in turn may transfer these skills to younger generations, thereby fostering intergenerational learning and community collaboration. The findings suggest that IoT-driven vertical agriculture not only addresses structural challenges such as market accessibility and system standardization but also strengthens local food economies, enhances social cohesion, and advances Malaysia’s broader digital transformation agenda.