Recently, the School of Marketing and Management (SoMM) at Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) embarked on an enriching industrial visit to Ajinomoto’s Smart Factory.

Led by Ms Harjinder Kaur (Senior Lecturer and IAP Coordinator, SoMM at APU), the visit aimed to connect academic theory with real-world innovations in food science, sustainability, and advanced manufacturing. 

Activity 1: Exploring Innovation at the Smart Factory

Students were warmly welcomed by Mr Bay Toh, who led the factory tour and introduced them to Ajinomoto’s technologically advanced operations.

Fun fact, through automation, digitalisation, and sustainable initiatives; including solar energy usage and advanced wastewater treatment, the factory has earned Green Building certification in Malaysia.

The tour highlighted the science behind flavor production, particularly the use of amino acids and monosodium glutamate (MSG), while showcasing how Ajinomoto balances taste with health by promoting reduced salt content in its products.

Activity 2: Interactive Learning and Flavorful Engagement

The experience was made even more engaging through a series of hands-on and interactive activities that brought learning to life.

Students took part in a lively cooking demonstration using Ajinomoto products, allowing them to translate their academic insights into practical culinary applications.

This was followed by an exciting chicken soup tasting session, where they evaluated different flavor profiles and discussed how taste, health, and innovation intersect in product development; adding a rich sensory and analytical layer to their understanding.

To further reinforce their learning, an interactive quiz tested their recall and reflections on the factory’s operations, sustainability efforts, and marketing strategies.

As a thoughtful conclusion to the visit, each student received a specially prepared gift envelope filled with a variety of Ajinomoto products and comprehensive company literature, making the experience both memorable and educational.

Student Perspectives

1. Kelyn Zhuanda, Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Marketing Management with a specialism in Digital Marketing: “The visit was super eye-opening, as it showed how the company balances great taste with eco-friendly practices, deepening my appreciation for their commitment to quality and sustainability.”
2. Kelviani Yenanda, Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Marketing Management with a specialism in Digital Marketing: “The visit gave me a new perspective on the food industry, especially seeing the precision behind their production process and how innovation and transparency play a key role in building a strong, trustworthy brand.”
3. Teng Chun Hong, Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Marketing Management with a specialism in Digital Marketing: “The visit was both fun and educational, as it allowed me to explore how the company enhances food flavor through innovative processes like using sugar cane or tapioca to produce MSG, while also promoting healthier eating through reduced salt intake.”
4. Damira Gabdullina, Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Business Management with a specialism in Business Analytics: “Visiting the factory was a memorable and rewarding experience, where i gained inspiring insights into the company’s history and operations, while the interactive activities made learning enjoyable, to which it strengthened my connections with my peers.”

Reflections on the Industrial Visit

Ms Harjinder expressed her appreciation for Ajinomoto’s warm hospitality and the valuable learning experience it provided to the students.

“This visit was truly an eye-opening experience for our students, giving them a deeper understanding of how innovation and sustainability come together in the modern food industry, while also highlighting the value of critical thinking, collaboration, and applying their academic knowledge in a real-world setting.”