When she heard about Grow Subang, she showed up, again and again, happy to have a patch of green to call her own.
“I’ve seen her many times going into our community garden, even when we weren’t running any events, simply to take photos of the plants,” Jennifer Loy, Grow Subang’s community engagement and operations manager, told FMT Lifestyle.
Since opening in November, Grow Subang – located in Taman Subang Ria here – has drawn folks eager to get their hands dirty, connect with nature, and be part of something bigger.
It is more than just a garden – it’s a learning hub and a gathering place. “Anyone can join as long as they’re willing to try something new. We run workshops, we compost, we teach people how to grow their own food,” Loy said.
“But most importantly, we bring people together.”
Spanning 836 sq m, the garden is filled with edible plants, from okra, long beans and radishes to mint, roselle and citrus trees. The volunteers even get to bring back the harvest to cook scrumptious and healthy meals for their families.
Grow Subang’s workshops cater to all – from condo dwellers with no land to those keen on putting their kitchen waste to good use.
“People see what we grow and get excited,” Loy said. “But many say, ‘I don’t have space.’ So, in April, we’re starting workshops specifically for those in small spaces.”
The team has also partnered with cafés around Subang to help them compost coffee grounds and food scraps.
“When you see how much food waste we produce, it’s shocking,” Loy noted. “Instead of throwing it away, we turn it into something that feeds the garden.”
At the heart of Grow Subang is its volunteer programme. People of all ages drop by to plant, compost, and help maintain the space. Some come for the physical activity, others for the simple joy of working with their hands.
For many, it’s about connection: Loy said even before the garden was fully built, the community was curious.
“They would walk by and ask, ‘What is this place?’ The interest has been overwhelming, and it proves that people want to reconnect with nature.”
Despite being just a few months old, Grow Subang is evolving. Loy shared that a proper volunteering programme is launching soon, so people can participate in a more structured manner.
“I also hope to set up a little marketplace, turn some of our harvest into jams and pickles, and sell them there. My hope is to constantly build on what we do and what we are, which is a community garden and a learning hub,” she said.
Ultimately, the goal isn’t just growth – it’s impact. “We’re not trying to expand endlessly. We just want to keep this space thriving, make sure people can come here, learn, and feel a sense of belonging.”
Follow Grow Subang on Instagram.
Grow Subang
PARC Subang,
Taman Subang Ria,
47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor