Simple Joy at Farm Fresh Cow Farm @ Universiti Putra Malaysia

I recently discovered a cow farm nestled in Serdang, Selangor. It is managed by Farm Fresh in collaboration with Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) and is open to the public. Despite not having any particular interest in cow farms, I yearned for a day of adventure and convinced Su to chauffeur us there, considering the limitations of my aging car. Luckily, Su agreed, and off we went on a day's escapade.

After a 40-minute drive from KL city centre, we arrived at the farm around 11 am. The absence of a crowd allowed us to smoothly pay the RM10 entrance fee per adult. We sought the assistance of the friendly crew to fasten our payment tags, which turned out to be a straightforward process.

Before meeting the "ladies" (the cows, as they are affectionately known at the farm), we made a pit stop for brunch to satisfy my breakfast cravings. Thereafter, we explored the gardens and encountered various birds, fish, and even a reptile (snake). Witnessing the farm's cow dung processing for fertiliser added to my understanding of the farm’s eco-conscious practices.

Surprisingly, classical music was serenading the "ladies" when we said “hello.” It turns out that this reduces their stress levels and enhances milk production. Nature's wonders never cease to amaze. After concluding our walk, we visited a recycling centre that emphasised the importance of segregating household waste for recycling.

A lorry ride, guided by a comical tour guide, became the highlight of our visit. It brought us to a scenic hill where, in customary fashion, we all got down and struck various poses to capture perfect snapshots. Afterward, Su enjoyed her lunch while I indulged in an irresistible ice cream treat.

Overall, the 4-hour outing proved to be a pleasant diversion from the usual monotony of a typical weekend. Perhaps viewing the farm through the eyes of a child could enhance the excitement and joy of the experience. Certainly, families with kids who flocked the farm in the later part of the afternoon added to the lively atmosphere.

As a parting gift, I share with you an uplifting poem called "Ode to a Cow" from the Old Farmer's Almanac of 1938. May it bring a smile to your face and remind you of the simple joys found in observing nature's gentle creatures.

Ode to a Cow

When life seems one too many for you,

Go and look at a cow.

When the future’s black and the outlook blue,

Go and look at a cow.

For she does nothing but eat her food,

And sleep in the meadows entirely nood,

Refusing to fret or worry or brood

Because she doesn’t know how.

Whenever you’re feeling bothered and sore,

Go and look at a cow.

When everything else is a fearful bore,

Go and look at a cow.

Observe her gentle and placid air,

Her nonchalance and savoir faire,

Her absolute freedom from every care,

Her imperturbable brow.

So when you’re at the end of your wits,

Go and look at a cow.

Or when your nerves are frayed to bits,

And wrinkles furrow your brow;

She’ll merely moo in her gentle way,

Switching her rudder as if to say:

“Bother tomorrow! Let’s live today!”

Take the advice of a cow.