Business Potential for Agricultural Biotechnology - Asian Productivity ...

Business Potential for Agricultural Biotechnology Products
Center, a mechanism to coordinate, cooperate, undertake research, and commercialize agrobiotechnology.
In the implementation of the national biotechnology policy, MARDI was designated the
center of excellence for agrobiotechnology, responsible for developing networks with other
public R&D institutions and the private sector, providing infrastructure and facilities, and enhancing
human resource development.
Biotechnology research in MARDI is divided into three scopes of study: biological
molecule and genetic engineering, bioprocessing, and biodiagnosis and biosafety.
In the Eighth Malaysian Development Plan (2000–05), MARDI allocated more than
MYR100 million (USD26.3 million) for R&D in biotechnology programs to generate technologies
and techniques that can improve agricultural practices. As of 2004 MARDI has generated
more than 50 technologies related to agrobiotechnology, including biosensor kits for
pesticide residue, transgenic papaya seed, transgenic rice, seedlings of papaya, orchids, banana,
and mangosteen using tissue culture, and use of reproductive biotechnological techniques in
cattle (embryo transfer, IVF, embryo sexing, semen and embryo cryopreservation). These technologies
are ready to be upscaled and commercialized, and MARDI is open to the possibility of
joint ventures or others with both local and foreign firms. MARDI’s policy is to encourage local
and foreign companies to collaborate in carrying out research and in commercializing its technology.
CONCLUSION
Malaysia has enormous potential and talent. The government has recognized the potential
of biotechnology as a key driver for wealth creation and social well-being as well as serving as
an economic generator. The industry is expected to generate MYR270 billion of revenue, create
280,000 jobs, and establish 100 companies by the year 2020, when Malaysia aims to be an industrialized
nation. Agrobiotechnology is an industry with great potential. The current market
value of agrobiotechnology products and its growth point to an encouraging future. In this regard,
Malaysia has additional advantages: rich biodiversity, high government support and commitment,
and a substantial human resource base can benefit firms both in Malaysia and in other countries
that have the intention to invest in Malaysia.
Malaysia’s doors are always opens to companies and R&D institutions wanting to jointly
explore its resources for the benefit of all parties. The government is always open to new ideas
and will provide support to ensure the success of these new ventures.
REFERENCES
Anas A.N. Potential development of bio-industry in Malaysia. Paper presented at the Conference
on Strategic Direction of the Agricultural Sector in Sabah, Malaysia, 2004.
Departments of Statistics, Malaysia. Yearbook of Statistics 2003.
Hassan M.D. The current and future outlook of agricultural biotechnology in Malaysia. Asian
Biotechnology And Development Review 2002; 5(1).
Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI). Annual Report 2003.
Malaysian Science and Technology Information Center (MASTIC). Malaysia—Technology,
Research, and Development: Knowledge and Facilities Directory 2002/03. 2003.
Ministry of Agriculture, Malaysia. The National Agricultural Policy 1992–2010. 1993.
Ministry of Agriculture, Malaysia.Third National Agricultural Policy 1998–2010. 1999.
Ministry of Agriculture and Agrobased Industry, Malaysia. External Trade Summary: Food and
Selected Agricultural Products. 2003.
Ministry of Finance. Malaysia. Economic Report 2003/2004. 2004.
Ministry of Finance. Malaysia. Economic Report 2004/2005. 2005.
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