By Anne Das
Puan Fazila Binti Mohd Zin, founder of FM Farm, has been named Best Woman Entrepreneur at Perak AgroFest 2025. The recognition marks nearly two decades of hard work, growth, and commitment to her craft.
In an interview with Ipoh Echo, Fazila spoke about her journey from humble beginnings to state recognition. Her determination has turned a simple idea into a thriving enterprise that continues to nurture both people and potential.
She began her journey in 2006, inspired by her mother’s small mushroom-growing project. What started as curiosity has grown into a mission rooted in resilience and purpose.
The early years were not easy. Crops failed, and diseases destroyed entire batches before she had the knowledge to manage them. Fazila chose to learn instead of giving up. She sought guidance from the Department of Agriculture, absorbed every lesson she could, and rebuilt her farm from the ground up.
Today, FM Farm produces up to 50 kilograms of oyster mushrooms each day. Her team of three cultivates both grey and white varieties known for their texture, sweetness, and high nutritional value.
The farm produces its own mushroom blocks from organic materials such as rubberwood sawdust and rice bran. Fazila has also improved efficiency with automatic misting, bagging, and steaming systems that ensure consistent quality from cultivation to harvest.
Beyond business, Fazila believes in helping others grow. Through the Perak Islamic Religious and Malay Customs Council (MAIPk), she mentors members of the asnaf community, which includes families and individuals with limited income. She teaches them how to cultivate mushrooms and build a stable source of livelihood.
“Some of the women I have trained were once housewives or unemployed,” she said. “Now they are running their own farms and even creating new products like Cheese Mushroom Pau and Pickled Mushroom.”
She has helped fifteen entrepreneurs across Perak establish their own ventures. Her dedication and consistency earned her the title of Best Woman Entrepreneur at Perak AgroFest 2025.
In her own words:
“Believe in your own ability and do not be afraid to venture into agriculture. We can balance our roles as mothers, wives, and entrepreneurs. Farming can be a source of income and pride for the next generation.” 🌾
If you or someone you know has an inspiring story worth sharing with the community, drop me a line at anne@ipohecho.com.my We love sharing stories that uplift our community.
