Author : Hassan Mat Daud

Summary : As biotechnology is relatively is a new industry in Malaysia, it presents enourmous opportunities as well as challenges. In order to be competitive in the sector, the country has to embark on a sound R&D program, backed by a strong human resource, a dedicated up-to date infrastructure to utilize the rich natural resource that is available. Historically, agricultural biotechnology development in Malaysia can be divided into three phases: 1) the period of establishment (prior to 1995); 2) development phase (1995-2000) and 3) advancement phase (beyond 2001). Implementation of the national initiative and agenda on biotechnology was further enhanced with the establishment of the National Biotechnology Directorate (BIOTEK) under MOSTE in 1996. Current research in molecular biology, genetic engineering, tissue culture, animal reproductive biotechnology, bioprocess and biodiagnosis at various research institutions and universities has set a stage for further advancement in making the country as a new hub for ag-biotechnology. The thrust areas that have been given emphasis are: 1) gene discovery; understanding of molecular mechanism and gene functions; 2) improvement of plants, animals and microbes through genetic engineering and other areas of biotechnology, 3) vaccines development for livestock, 4) diagnostics and bio-safety, and 5) bioconversion and bioprocess. The Governemnt-backed initiative in BioValley Malaysia will accelerate the development in biotechnology R&D into new frontiers.