Kuala Lampur, Jan. 20 -- If asked to name a factor impeding the UN-SDGs, few would disagree it is poverty.

This is why ending poverty is goal number one. The world may have achieved progress in many fields, but poverty reduction remains the most stubborn.

Malaysia once made news addressing poverty. Our Felda scheme was hailed as a successful model in rural poverty alleviation.

Many countries expressed interest in replicating it. Though not without their ups and downs, many remain convinced Felda will rise again.

The current government has declared fighting poverty as a high priority. It is not easy, but not impossible either.

Universities are also actively doing R&D to develop viable solutions.

Under the initiative "Basmi Miskin Teg...