Cover image via Certified Humane
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Jacob Mathan's journey at Farm Fresh Berhad began 13 years ago in the fields of Mawai Farm in Johor
Fresh out of Universiti Malaysia Sabah with a degree in agricultural science, he joined the company, then known as the Holstein Milk Company, as a Farm Executive, eager to learn and make an impact.
What followed was a career marked by not only rapid growth but also by hands-on dedication.
By 2015, Jacob was leading the Muadzam Shah Cattle Research and Innovation Centre in Pahang, helping establish a facility that would become a benchmark for dairy farming in Malaysia.
He rose to Group Senior Farm Manager in 2018 and was named Farm Director in 2024, overseeing operations across the country and even supporting the group's ventures in Australia.
Colleagues remembered Jacob not only for his professional achievements but also for his character.
In a letter to staff, Farm Fresh group managing director Loi Tuan Ee described him as "affable, respectful, and well-mannered", noting his significant contributions to the company's dairy farm division.
(From left) Farm Fresh Berhad sales director Ding Chai Thong, plant operations director Alex Loi, Azmi Zainal, Loi, group chief financial officer Mohd Khairul Mat Hassan and farm director Jacob Mathan.
Image via theSunJacob was a pioneer of ethical dairy farming in Asia
Under his guidance, Farm Fresh became the first company in the region to earn the Certified Humane Raised and Handled certification.
He introduced innovations such as hoof pedicure units and climate-controlled systems to prevent heat stress in cows, always emphasising preventative care over treatment.
Despite his professional success, Jacob remained grounded.
He was widely regarded as a "founding spirit" of Farm Fresh, a testament to his 13-year journey with the company from its early days.
On 3 March, Jacob was in the Philippines scouting a potential new farm site
It was part of Farm Fresh's plans for international expansion when the helicopter he was travelling in crashed near Pililla, Rizal Province.
He was among two passengers killed; three others survived, including the pilot.
Jacob is survived by his wife, Amy, and their family.
Farm Fresh said the crash was a devastating loss for the company and extended condolences to the families of the victims.
