SEREMBAN: Life can be challenging at times. From tough projects at work to pressing family commitments, it can be easy to put self-care on the back burner.
However, taking a short break every now and then can be hugely beneficial to your physical and mental wellbeing.
If you’re looking for an idyllic spot for a respite, how about taking a trip to Titi Eco Farm? Spanning over 40 acres, this lush farmland is located in the Jelebu district of Negeri Sembilan.
Here, the air is fresh and clean, and the singing of birds can be heard at all hours of the day. Stunning mountains are discernible in the background, and it is a refreshing change of scenery from the tall buildings that dot a city’s skyline.
During a recent visit, FMT Lifestyle spoke with husband-and-wife team, Lim Chih Lun and Chensy Chan, who are the director and general manager of Titi Eco Farm, respectively.
According to Chan, Titi Eco Farm is an integrated farm, consisting of an organic farm, food processing factory and eco-resort.
“When guests come, the main thing is for them to experience the food here. The second is to experience the quietness. It’s a good chance for them to get away from their busy schedules and just slow down,” Chan, 39, said.
As such, they offer a two-day and one-night “farmcation” package on the weekends, where guests check in on Saturday and check-out the following day.
The package, Chan revealed, includes “organic farm-to-table vegan plant-based meals” for afternoon tea, dinner, a light supper, and a breakfast buffet the following day.
“Most of the items in the breakfast buffet are made from scratch, including the dipping sauces, as we want to serve all-natural food and to avoid preservatives as well as chemically formulated processed food,” Chan said.
Among the highlights are buckwheat porridge served with various side dishes – preserved radish; baked sweet potato sprinkled with bamboo salt and pumpkin onde-onde.
Additionally, guests are treated to a guided tour of the organic farm during their stay. Taking the FMT Lifestyle team on a personal tour, Lim, 39, pointed out the different vegetables and fruits cultivated here.
These are mainly lowland crops such as choy sum, water spinach, cabbage, long beans, papaya, banana and even durian – all grown without the use of ripening agents or pesticides.
The produce, Lim added, is supplied wholesale mainly to organic shops in the Klang Valley.
While spending time in nature is refreshing, being able to learn how the crops are cultivated and the challenges to ensure good produce is eye-opening.
As a bonus, there is also an interesting element to the farm tour. “If there are matured fruits or vegetables, guests can experience harvesting them and enjoying it for dinner,” Chan added.
Other activities include a fun game of treasure hunt in nature and a demonstration on how papaya enzymes work in a human’s body and help with food digestion.
At night, guests can take a walk to enjoy the cool air and expansive view of the star-filled sky – and if one is lucky, they may spot fireflies lighting up the dark!
The accommodation is comfortable and spread over two buildings: a rustic wooden lodge and a charming brick house. Room sizes vary from cosy twin rooms suitable for two, to larger family rooms.
Alternatively, how about a day visit on Sunday that includes the breakfast buffet and a treasure hunt? You can even stop by the charming town of Titi on your way home.
While here, you can shop for products made at their factory – papaya powder for better digestion, fruit enzyme juices, jams, homemade vegan butter, organic sourdough bread and crackers.
Chan said the farm is only open over the weekend as they focus on organic farming and product manufacturing on weekdays.
A simpler life
The couple, who live full-time at the farm, have personally experienced the benefits of a simpler life.
Lim was previously a true-blue “city boy” who felt drained after five years in the design and animation industry. He also suffered mild health issues in his twenties.
His father, Lim Mok Lai, who founded Titi Eco Farm in 1997, urged him to join the business. He said yes in 2010 and has not looked back since.
For Chan, it wasn’t until she met her husband that she realised the importance of a healthy lifestyle.
“I had a very stressful life which impacted my health badly. When I came here, it really gave me hope and my health is now on the mend,” she shared.
Spending time at Titi Eco Farm – regardless of how long – provides a great opportunity to enjoy the simpler things in life: basking in nature, disconnecting temporarily from a busy routine and even eating a healthier diet.
And as one leaves the place, one can’t help but feel lighter in mind and body.
Follow Titi Eco Farm on Facebook and Instagram. For reservations, visit the website or WhatsApp 019-220 7868.
Titi Eco Farm
Lot 1706, Jalan Sungai Rotan,
Kampung Titi Bunga,
71650 Titi,
Negeri Sembilan