Vol.

19: 1/2023

MARDI and Her, Better Way to Tanjong Karang Upscaling

Dr. Asfaliza Ramli Export Durian Agro Technology Park Agro-businesses with
MARDI’s Incubator

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Technology
Hot
Pg 2 Pg 7 Pg 9 Pg 11

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Uplifting The Economics of

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Agriculture
Entrepreneurs

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By: Dr. Ainu Husna MS Suhaimi
Livestock Science Research Centre, MARDI
E-mail: shusna@mardi.gov.my

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rom its existence, the abundance and variety of nature has
been placed to provide enough food and nutrition for all the
occupants of earth. Hence, it is not surprising that humans
have long used food to improve its well-being by gathering,
producing, improvising and trading these natural resources for
their own benefits. With improvements in knowledge and ability
to create new ways and technologies to nurture our land, we have
managed to feed more and more people. Presently, agricultural
practices encompassing crop management, livestock care,
aquaculture, fisheries and forestry have emerged as the global
forefront of employment, serving as the largest economic sector
for numerous nations an as the main source of food and income for
marginalized communities.
Although agriculture production has improved so much
these past centuries, scarcity and overuse of land and resources,
pollution, loss of biodiversity, as well as climate change have set
alarms that current agricultural practices are not sustainable and
is at the risk of jeopardising the ability to produce enough food
for our future generations. Hence, in 2015, twelve Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs) have been established. The Food
and Agriculture Organisation of The United Nation (FAO), has
transformed this collective vision into an actionable framework
aimed at bolstering and expediting the shift towards more
sustainable food and agricultural systems. The approach is based
on five principles that harmonises the societal, economic and
environmental aspects. The five key principles are: (1) Increase
productivity, employment and value addition in food systems, (2)
Protect and enhance natural resources, (3) Improve livelihoods
and foster inclusive economic growth, (4) Enhance the resilience
of people, communities and ecosystems and (5) Adapt governance
to new challenges.
Malaysia has aligned its directions with this global aspiration.
Being a country where agriculture contributes up to about 3.50%
of the country’s GDP and has a total land use of 5.63 million ha, which
is about 17% of the total land area Malaysia, it is important that
agriculture is utilised in a sustainable manner to provide food
security and alleviate poverty by improving the income of farmers
engaged in agriculture related activities. This commitment was
translated in both the Twelfth Malaysian Plan 2021 – 2025
(RMK 12) and National Agricultural Policy NAP 2.0. The launch
of RMK 12 Plan was dedicated to eradicating hardcore poor,
addressing poverty issues and building an inclusive Malaysian
society. The Twelfth Plan is anchored on three key themes,
namely resetting the economy, strengthening security, wellbeing
and inclusivity, as well as advancing sustainability. Four catalytic

More on page 3
2 Vol.19 (2023)

ASPIRATION

MARDI and Her,

EDITORIAL Dr. Asfaliza Ramli
Advisor
• Dato’ Dr. Mohamad Zabawi Abdul Ghani
By: Sivaganesh Loganathan
Corporate Communication Centre, MARDI
Editorial Team
E-mail: sivaganesh@mardi.gov.my

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Editor in Chief
• Dr. Ainu Husna MS Suhaimi
cience and research, is simply inseparable from her.
Editorial Board The passion to discover, innovate and commercialise
• Rohani Md Yon
• Dr. Roslina Ali
scientific findings has made her to what she is today. We
at MARDI, feel proud and honoured to have her appointed as

• Dr. Mohd Norfaizal Bin Ghazalli
• Ts. Dr. Ahmad Safuan Bujang
• Dr. Lina Rozano
• Muhammad Anas Othaman
• Zulaikha Mazlan
• Fiona Naqiah Mustapha
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our Deputy Director General for Research and Development.
Congratulations, Dr. Asfaliza Ramli! The integrity, insight and
inclusiveness we have witnessed in her, makes her an excellent
leader.

• Sivaganesh Loganathan
• Anees Adilla Che Mohd Hashim
Cartoonist
• Badrulhadza Amzah
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Having served at MARDI for the past 23 years as a
researcher, Dr. Asfaliza’s latest appointment is truly deserving.
Her career kicked off as a rice breeder, focusing on rice variety
development out of which 5 has been commercialised for farmers
nationwide. Her continuous commitment in aromatic rice

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MARDI Press
research gave rise to varieties that are globally competitive.
Copy Editor
• Hazida Syima Hamazah
These significant breakthrough have definitely helped to improve
the livelihood of farmers and enhance their economic status
Secretariat drastically. It is undeniable that she is an ultimate role model to
• Sivaganesh Loganathan
many researcher at MARDI, as she received various awards and

Designer
• Ahmad Fauzi Abd Rashid
For enquiries, please contact
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recognitions due to numerous contribution. Dr. Asfaliza bagged the
Anugerah Perkhidmatan Cemerlang (APC) three times in 2005,
2015 and 2019, MARDI’s Young Scientist Award in 2008 and the
prestigious international ‘Outstanding Rice Scientist’ Award in 2017 at the 50th anniversary of
ASEAN. Her impeccable determination and dynamic will power is always focused on steer leading

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SCIENTIA MARDI
MARDI Headquarters,
Persiaran MARDI-UPM,
43400 Serdang, Selangor
Tel: 603-8953 6662
Fax: 603-8953 6666
E-mail: shusna@mardi.gov.my
For navigation and contact, scan
with your smartphone
MARDI towards greater heights.
Dr. Asfaliza is truly a Malaysian Scientist. She received all her bachelor and postgraduate
degrees from a Malaysian University – Universiti Putra Malaysia. Her PhD in Plant Genetics and
Breeding was conferred to her in the year 2014. She is indeed an epitome for women empowerment.
Let’s explore further on her success stories.
In August 2000, Dr. Asfaliza began her career as a rice breeder at MARDI, Seberang Perai.
During this, she carried out researches focused on specialty rice development and led several other
projects. She then took up the post of Deputy Director of Paddy and Industrial Crop Research
Centre from 2014 till 2015 as the lead for Paddy Breeding Programme. After about a year, she was
appointed as Deputy Director of the Hybrid Paddy Programme, under the same research centre.
This programme was newly introduced at MARDI back then. After serving the role until 2017, she
was then reassigned to lead the Paddy Breeding Programme. After all the years of service under
various programmes, Dr. Asfaliza was finally named as the Director of Paddy and Rice Research
Centre (PR) from 2018 until 2022. Her strong determination and excellent networking pushed her

to take up bigger roles. This time in the prominent top management post in MARDI, as the Deputy
MARDI Press,
Corporate Communication Centre Director General (Operation and Development) on 14th of March 2022. Most recently, Dr. Asfaliza
Malaysian Agricultural Research and took on the portfolio of Deputy Director General (Research and Development) in July 2023.
Development Institute,
MARDI Headquarters,
Sixteen years of research work at MARDI Seberang Perai produced 7 varieties of superior rice,
Persiaran MARDI-UPM, namely MRQ 74, MRQ 76, MRQ 88, MRQ 98, MRQ 103, MRQ 104 and MRM 16 (In collaboration
43400 Serdang, Selangor
Tel: 03-8953 6931
with Nestle). Dr. Asfaliza always prioritised the welfare of the paddy farmers, while conducting
research. At each testing sites, farmers were involved and connected to the projects, besides being
exposed to the best practices in managing paddy fields and post-harvest handling. An important
note, the MRQ 76 was the pioneer aromatic rice in Malaysia which broke the import dependency as now Malaysia can self-produce
aromatic rice. What a great success for MARDI!
Dr. Asfaliza sits on various roles, providing consultation and technical assistance to stakeholders, government agencies,
industrialists, paddy farmers and the general public. She has also co-supervised numerous post-graduate students, published
articles in reputable journals and represented Malaysia in various international conferences. Her outstanding performance as a lead
of a development project secured a RM 16.3 million allocation under the 11th Malaysian Plan. This remarkable success, wouldn’t be
possible if not for her credibility and trust gained throughout the years.
Born and bred in Kuala Lumpur, urban lifestyle never hindered Dr. Asfaliza to contribute towards nation building through
agriculture. Generation of 10 paddy varieties, paved the path for improved rice yield, higher resistance towards pests and diseases,
as well as enhanced economic status of paddy farmers over the years. Her immense contribution towards science and research did
not just end at the laboratories. She went beyond and trained multiple industrial trainees, supervised tens of post-graduate students
and was a prominent leader to all her subordinates. She makes sure to lend her ears to farmers and co-workers, thus making her a
solution provider at all times. Being a strong support to people around her, Dr. Asfaliza motivates and encourages fellow researchers
to succeed in research and guides them thoroughly from the time she led the Centre of Excellence (COE) at MARDI, Seberang Perai.
She believes that no sound research should be kept idle on the shelves, but instead should reach end users and benefit the public
as we pledge to serve the nation. Her dynamic nature at work and excellent leadership qualities increased the camaraderie among
agencies and departments under the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM), and strengthened the networking at all
levels. She further emphasise on the importance of Science Communication in Agriculture which MARDI looks forward to embark on
to increase its visibility. We pray and hope that Dr. Asfaliza’s aspiration materialises and MARDI would go beyond what it is today,
globally!

Afterall, there can be no Leadership when there is no Team!

Jokko Willink
 Vol.19 (2023) 3
FRONT PAGE

Uplifting The Economics of

Agriculture Entrepreneurs

From front page 1

R A F T
policy enablers, namely developing future talent, accelerating
technology adoption and innovation, enhancing connectivity

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and transport infrastructure as well as strengthening the
public service will support the achievement of these themes.
The successful implementation of the Twelfth Plan will result
in shared prosperity, enhance inclusivity and pave the way for a
more sustainable Malaysia for future generations. NAP 2.0 with
its theme: Agrofood Modernisation: Safeguarding the future of
National Food Security also has goals to transform the agri-food
sector to be a sustainable, resilient and technology-driven sector
in order to drive the nation’s economic growth and increase the
well-being of its people. The policy also gives priorities to food and
nutritional security.
With these two policies, the Malaysian Government has paved
its way to improve the agriculture sector which will directly cost of production that affect income of farmers, limited produce
uplift the economy and well-being of agriculture entrepreneurs. and value-added products, as well as non conducive business
Although this will take efforts from all stakeholders, utilising environment.
income-generating technologies are key to making this a reality. MARDI has been mandated to develop and transfer agriculture-
Technologies can be utilised throughout the supply chain from based technologies to drive the productivity and sustainability of
production at the farm to increase yield, control pest and diseases, nation’s agriculture sector. This volume of SCIENTIA MARDI
reduce post-harvest losses and improve market values of produce highlights several technologies that can help in improving the
and products. Technologies can help address challenges that income and consequently the well-being of farmers and agriculture
have been identified by NAP 2.0, such as low productivity, high industry players.

Get it at MARDI Press

https://www.e-sentral.com/p/penerbitmardi Coming
https://mardi.elib.com.my/ soon...

New!
4 Vol.19 (2023)

SIGNIFICANT RESEARCH
Healthier, Ubi-Based Products
Ubi-Based
By: Dr. Aida Hamimi Ibrahim, Dr. Faridah Hussin,
Dr. Madzlan Kasran, Tun Norbrillinda Mokhtar and Nor Zalina Mat Saad
Food Science and Technology Research Centre, MARDI
E-mail: aida@mardi.gov.my

digestion. An excellent substitute for wheat-based paratha is pre-

mixed paratha made from casava and sweet potato. The premixed
is high in dietary fibre (10 g/100g) and good source of vitamin such
as vitamin C (90 mg/100g), vitamin B2 (98.7 mg/100g) and vitamin K
(109 mg/100g).
Apart from pre-mixed flour, MARDI has developed several
other food products to exploit nutritional benefits of ubi such as

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sweet potato crisps, Nutri-rich soup, sweet potato cereal and, high
protein and high fibre bar from sweet potato. Sweet potato crisps

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is a stackable crisp made from purple sweet potato which can be
bi such as cassava and sweet potato, is a root vegetable as an alternative product for the local snack industry in order to

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that is native to Southeast Asia. It is a popular ingredient
in many Asian cuisines and is often used in sweet dishes
such as cakes and desserts. There has been an increase in the
popularity of Ubi-based products due to its unique flavour and
health benefits. Ubi is high in fibre and low in calories, making
meet the demand for healthy snacks. In addition, MARDI’s sweet
potato cereal is a healthy breakfast cereal with anthocyanin and
high dietary fibre. Frozen dessert from purple sweet potato is a
non-dairy product, free from artificial colouring and preservative.

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it a popular choice for health-conscious consumers. It is also
gluten-free and is a good source of vitamins B and C, as well as
potassium. One of the most common Ubi food products is ubi
flour. Ubi flour is a gluten-free flour that is made by grinding Ubi
It also rich in anthocyanin. Nutri-rich soup on the other hand, is
an easily digested, gluten-free and nutrient-rich soup made from
sweet potatoes, veggies and pegaga. Demand of foods in nutrition-
on-the-go concept has also led to development of protein bar from
sweet potato. The bar contains protein with creatine for muscle

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into a fine powder used in gluten-free baking.
MARDI has developed diversified products from casava flour
and sweet potato flour such as high fibre cassava premixed bread
flour and premixed paratha flour. Casava premixed bread flour
is high in dietary fibre with 20 g/100 g of dietary fibre. It is a
growth and strength, high fibre for healthy digestive system and
is rich in mineral such as calcium, magnesium, potassium to
promote healthy bones and body metabolism.
Overall, Ubi is a versatile and nutritious food that can be
used in many different ways. Ubi is a healthy and gluten-free

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good source of minerals such as potassium (556 mg/100g), calcium alternative to traditional wheat-based products such as bread
(67.8 mg/100g) and magnesium (49.5 mg/100g). Moreover, casava and paratha, making it a popular choice for people with dietary
premixed bread flour has prebiotic effect to promote healthy restrictions or those looking for healthier options.

Integrated Organic circular farming and promoting a more holistic approach to farming.
With ever increasing demand for organic produce, it is important to

Farming: The Future of

explore innovative and sustainable farming practices and the Integrated
Organic Farm is an excellent example of this. Integrated Organic Farm
MARDI receives local visitors and international delegates and serves as
Sustainable Agriculture a training ground for farmers while providing them with the knowledge
and technology to adopt sustainable farming practices. MARDI aims to
promote integrated organic farming throughout Malaysia and beyond,
support sustainable agriculture and ensure food security for future
By: Haryati Mansor generations. As the world faces increasing environmental and climate
Soil Science, Water and Fertiliser Research Centre, MARDI change challenges, it is essential to adopt sustainable farming practices.
E-mail: ytmansor@mardi.gov.my The Integrated Organic Farm at MARDI encompass of what the future
of agriculture could look like, one that is self-sustaining, closed-loop

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and produces zero waste. It exemplifies how sustainable agriculture
he Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development can support food security while preserving the environment for future
Institute (MARDI) successfully become a leader generations.
in sustainable farming practices by establishing
its Integrated Organic Farm. Located within MARDI’s
Headquarters, Serdang, this 7 ha farm showcases organic
agriculture research for sustainable, ecological farming
practices. The Integrated Organic Farm MARDI is based
on the circular farming concept, which integrates several
components besides crops. It includes animals such as
goats and poultry, pollinators, ecological engineering, waste
management and even mushrooms. The farm has created a Animal husbandry
self-sustaining and closed-loop system that produces zero
waste by incorporating these components. Unique feature of Stingless bee hive
the farm is the use of ecological engineering. This involves (kelulut)
the creation of natural habitats to support biodiversity,
such as planting specific beneficial plant species to attract
beneficial insects and birds. Waste management is another
crucial aspect of the Integrated Organic Farm. The farm has
implemented a biogas system, which converts organic waste
into biogas that can be used as a renewable energy source.
The remaining residue is then used as fertiliser for the crops,
completing the circular loop.
The Integrated Organic Farm also serves as a model
for sustainable agriculture, showcasing the potential of Integrated Organic
Crop companion & dense plating Farm, MARDI
 Vol.19 (2023) 5
SIGNIFICANT RESEARCH

Orchid
Hybrids for
Dignitaries

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By: Farah Zaidat Mohd Nazri

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Horticulture Research Centre, MARDI
E-mail: fzaidat@mardi.gov.my

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he VVIP hybrid orchid
is named after notable

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individuals from both local
and global communities as a
gesture of appreciation, which is parent. Aranda PMX Anwar has medium-sized
becoming increasingly popular. flowers, measuring between 3.0 and 4.5cm in diameter,
arranged in a spiral pattern on a medium-sized flower

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The specialty and uniqueness of
orchids which consist of various
genera, shapes, and colors, are
the main factors that make
them suitable as gifts, favours
stalk between 28 and 30cm long. can In addition,
Aranda PMX Anwar has been officially registered with
the International Registration Authority for Orchid
Hybrids located in the United Kingdom.

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or tokens of appreciation. Hybrid As for the orchid hybrid Vanda Halimah Yacob
orchids are the result of a cross Mohamed, it was named after Her Excellency Halimah
between different species or Yacob, President of the Republic of Singapore, and her
genera of orchids selected based husband, Mohamed Abdullah Alhabshee.
on desirable and attractive The orchid-naming ceremony was graced by Yang
characteristics such as beauty, di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-
low maintenance, high flowering Mustafa Billah Shah and Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku
rate and fragrant flowers. These Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah at Istana
traits make them preferable Negara to commemorate Her Excellency Halimah
compared to non-hybrid orchids. Yacob, Singapore’s President first official state visit to
MARDI has initiated an Malaysia on 21st March 2023. Vanda Halimah Yacob
orchid breeding program with Mohamed is a hybrid resulting from a cross between
the aim of enhancing the Vanda Kulwadee Fragrance, the maternal parent, and
orchid industry in Malaysia by Vanda tesselata, a wild orchid species, as the paternal
producing new orchid hybrids parent. Crossing commercial hybrids with wild orchid
that meet market demand. The species has resulted in an attractive, unique, small-
breeding of orchids emphasises sized and fragrant orchid hybrid. The flowers are
both monopodial vandaceous white, adorned with bright purple spots that are neatly
orchids, such as Vanda, Aranda, arranged on sturdy stalks which can last for nearly
and Mokara, and sympodial a month. The flower is non-seasonal and can bloom
orchids, such as Dendrobium and up to 5 – 6 times/year. Both Aranda PMX Anwar and
Cattleya. These standard types Vanda Halimah Yacob Mohamed possess unique and
will be bred to highlight new distinctive features. Further development of new orchid
colours, patterns, high-quality hybrids will continue to meet the increasing demand for
flowers and fragrances. MARDI’s new varieties in the floriculture industry, particularly
newest orchid hybrids are Aranda in Malaysia and the global market.
PMX Anwar and Vanda Halimah
Yacob Mohamed.
Aranda PMX Anwar was
named in honour of Malaysia’s
10th Prime Minister, Datuk
Seri Anwar Ibrahim, and was
announced during the launch of
National Landscape Day (Hari
Landskap Negara, HLN 2023)
at Taman D.R Seenivasagam in
Ipoh. The yellow orange colour
of this hybrid orchid symbolises
Anwar’s exuberance, optimism,
and spirit. This orchid hybrid
is a cross between commercial
hybrid Aranda Tecnokraft
as the maternal parent and
Aranda Sayan as the paternal
6 Vol.19 (2023)

SIGNIFICANT RESEARCH

Lowland Vegetable
Varieties
A Boost to the Industry
By: Nor Hazlina Mat Saat, Farahzety Abdul Mutalib, Norfadzilah Ahmad

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Fadzil, Rahayu Anang, Wan Rozita Wan Engah and Hafeifi Basir
Horticulture Research Centre, MARDI
E-mail: nor@mardi.gov.my

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he Malaysian vegetable industry has declined over the past decade, resulting
in increased vegetable imports due to insufficient domestic supply. Low product
quality, low yield and high pest and disease incidence pose significant challenges to
the industry. To meet market demands, high-quality vegetables with desirable traits like
higher yield, pest and disease resistance, and good nutritional and antioxidant content are

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necessary. The demand for temperate vegetable crops and limited land usage in Cameron
Highland have led to the development of new heat-tolerant vegetable varieties for local
production, including MAHA 18 tomato, lowland cabbage varieties K 33 and 311 hybrid ,
lowland cauliflower C 2 and shallot varieties SA 02, SA 07 and SA 08.

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MAHA 18 tomato has been proven to be suitable for lowland tomato cultivation. This
variety offers high crop yield of up to 25 t/ha, along with better fruit quality, improved
taste, attractive red skin colour with longer post-harvest storage. This new variety was
developed by using hybridisation between MT I, MT II and a Japanese variety (Fumikura)
which was identified as suitable for lowland cultivation. Additionally, this variety exhibits

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MAHA 18 - New lowland tomato variety high level of Beta-carotene (7 mg/100 gm) and lycopene (37 mg/ml). MAHA 18 can be

Lowland cauliflower Lowland cauliflower under rain shelter Shallot field

used as an alternative to reduce dependency on highland tomato published in the Manual Teknologi Penanaman Kubis Bunga
production and has been registered under the Plant Variety Tanah Rendah di Bawah Struktur Pelindung Hujan by MARDI Press.
Protection as Tomato MT 3 (PVBT 013/17). Shallot consumption is expanding with worldwide population
Cabbage is a popular vegetable in Malaysia, mainly grown growth. However, there is no local shallot production in Malaysia
in Cameron Highlands. Tropical-type cabbage varieties has due to a lack of suitable planting materials, high production
currently extended to lowland production areas utilising heat- costs and low returns. Malaysia imports 100% shallots, mainly
tolerant cultivars such as K 33 and 311 hybrids. With a planting from India, Pakistan, China, the Netherlands and Thailand. To
density of 22,000 to 25,000 plants/ha, the estimated yield is 26 to address these challenges, understanding the significance of food
30 mt with an average head weight of 1.5 kg. Total production cost security in shallot production is crucial. Through identification
is around RM 27,000/ha. Using the current average farm price and selection of shallot varieties from external and local sources,
of RM1.20/kg, projected gross and net incomes are RM36,000 three varieties, SA02, SA07 and SA08 were found suitable for local
and RM9,000 respectively. Full standard operational procedure cultivation. This study provides valuable information on yield and
manual for lowland cabbage production technology titled Manual related traits on shallot breeding and varietal improvement. The
Teknologi Penanaman Kubis di Tanah Rendah has been published full standard operational procedure including variety selection,
by MARDI Press. good agronomic practices, pest and disease management, and
Cauliflower is yet another common temperate vegetable post-harvest application, will be detailed out upon completion of
in Malaysia, valued for its high nutritional content. This research activities.
plant requires temperatures ranging between 15 to 25°C to
grow. Therefore, local production is very limited and largely
concentrated in highland areas. To meet the demand, Malaysia
relies on imported cauliflower mainly from China. In 2018, the
import value of cauliflowers from China reached RM283 million.
Since 2018, the evaluation and selection of cauliflower for lowland
cultivation has been conducted using 11 hybrids. Among them,
a heat tolerant hybrid coded as C2 (F1 1360; Green Eagle) has
been identified for rain shelter and lowland cultivation. This
hybrid exhibits stable growth performance, produced a uniform
yield and able to produce good curd quality between 400 - 450 g.
A comprehensive standard operational procedure of the lowland
cauliflower technology package under rain shelter has been
Lowland round cabbage cultivation
 Vol.19 (2023) 7
SIGNIFICANT RESEARCH

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urian is sold worldwide, with imports
dominated by China (62%), followed by
Vietnam (24%), Hong Kong (10%), Singapore
(2%) and other countries (2%). The China market
has long been known for its strong demand for the
durian market. Since the 1970s, Thailand has been
supplying China with fresh durian, indicating a
virtual monopoly on China’s durian consumption.
The uniqueness of the taste and the belief in the
health benefits durian have increased the demand
for consumption among Chinese consumers.
According to the MK Durian Harvest (2020),
Chinese consumption of durian is currently 0.21 Better Way to

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kg/capita and is expected to reach up to 1.1 kg/

Export Durian
capita in 2030, while the long-term expectation 3
kg/capita to be in line with Singapore, Taipei and
Hong Kong.

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Musang King or Mao Shan Wang is a popular of
Malaysian durian clones and is sold at a premium
price compared to Thai clones (Monthong, Chanee).
Malaysian durian is considered of higher quality By: Nur Azlin Razali, Wan Mahfuzah Wan Ibrahim, Siti Aisyah Abdullah
(and tastier) than Thai durian. Malaysia obtained and Suhana Safari

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approval for a market route to China for frozen
durian in the form of pulp and paste in 2007. This
market route led to a rapid and dramatic increase
in exports. From 2011 – 2019, durian exports
Horticulture Research Centre, MARDI
E-mail: nurazlin@mardi.gov.my
with a temperature of -196 °C is a cryogenic liquid that can cause rapid freezing

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increased by 151% from US $ 8,883 million (2011)
to US $ 22,258 million (2019).
The demand for durian fruit in a whole form
has also been increasing lately. However, the
shelf life of fresh whole durian fruit is very short,
when in contact with living tissue. Pressurised liquid nitrogen is sprayed onto
the product at high velocity to instantly freeze it. This method can get rid of heat
faster. It permeates the thermal resistance of the product, creating a blanket of ice
around it, further locking in flavour, nutrients, and natural moisture. Cryogenic
freezing reduces water loss five to ten times more efficiently than conventional

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approximately 2 days only at ambient temperature
and 7 days if stored at cold temperature. In order
to extend the storage life of this durian, a frozen
treatment using cryogenic freezing has been
developed. Freezing is one of the best techniques
to supply and maintain the quality of durian
throughout the year. Through freezing, the glut of
durian in the peak season can be controlled and the
supply of durian in the off-season can be carried
out. Furthermore, the strong aroma of durian can
be hidden along the supply chain. In terms of food
safety, frozen fruit is considered safer because
the reduction of water activity can inhibit the
growth of microorganisms under the frozen storage
environment.
Cryogenic freezing is one of the alternative
methods for freezing food that uses a medium such
as nitrogen gas or carbon dioxide. Liquid nitrogen
freezing methods. With limited water loss, this method can maintain product
weight.
Associated with MARDI’s findings, Malaysia successfully signed a protocol
on 20 August 2018, permitting the export of frozen whole durian fruit to China.
The protocol includes the list of farms that comply with the Certificate of Good
Agricultural Practices (MyGAP) and list of durian processing facilities and the
implementation of cryogenic freezing treatment at a temperature of -80 to -110
°C for at least 1 hour as approved by China.
MARDI’s postharvest handling technology package of frozen durian
is recommended for the export market to ensure that the durian is free of
quarantine pests and maintain fruit quality. The technology package inludes
protocols for packing house operations such as cleaning, sanitation treatment,
drying, cryogenic freezing treatment, packaging and storage. The product can be
stored for up to 6 months and still maintain the quality of premium durian. This
storage period is beneficial for sea shipment and distribution to China or other
international destinations.

Frozen Durian
8 Vol.19 (2023)

TECHNOLOGIES

Mushroom Media
for cultivation of gourmet and medicinal mushrooms
By: Ganisan Krishnen and Khairul Asfamawi Khulidin
Soil Science, Water and Fertiliser Research Centre, MARDI
E-mail: ganisan@mardi.gov.my

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ince the first cultivation of mushrooms in Malaysia, selection of a suitable substrate
has played an important role in mushroom production. The first mushroom production
in Malaya was reported in 1938 at Province Wellesley, where rice straw was used
as substrate for paddy straw mushroom (Volvariella volvacea) production. Unfortunately,

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paddy straw mushroom production failed to flourish because there were abundant sources
of wild mushrooms such as termite and split gills mushroom that could be easily and freely
harvested from rubber plantations and forests. After a long hiatus, the mushroom industry
began a new chapter when the first oyster mushroom culture, Pleuorotus sajor-caju strain
PL 27 (now renamed as Pleuorotus pulmonarius) was brought into Malaysia in mid-1980s

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by Dr Tan Yee How from Malaysian Agriculture University (now known as University Split-gill mushroom produced using substrate
Putra Malaysia, UPM). The culture was donated by the late Dr Yip Cho from University of mixture of rubber sawdust, rice bran and lime at
Sydney, Australia. The mushroom industry accelerated when Dr Lee Boon Siew from the ratio of 100:50:1
Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI) managed to obtain
the culture and transfer the mushroom cultivation technology throughout the country as a

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result of extensive research conducted in MARDI. Most of the existing commercial farmers
in Malaysia received their basic training in mushroom cultivation from MARDI.
In the early days, the oyster mushroom production was very much dependent on rice
straw and cotton waste media. Cotton waste was more productive than rice straw, but it
became very expensive and uneconomical for mushroom production. MARDI and UPM

R
conducted research on various agro-wastes that were free and abundant. Among the
wastes material tested were sawdust (from cengal, meranti and rubber trees), rice straw,
empty fruit bunch from the oil palm industry. Rubber sawdust was found to be the best
substrate for the production of oyster mushrooms.

D
Rubber sawdust: The saviour of the Malaysian mushroom industry
The discovery of rubber sawdust as suitable media for mushroom production revolutionized
the Malaysian mushroom industry. As the world’s largest rubber producer, Malaysia
possesses an abundant source of waste for mushroom production at zero cost. Even today, Oyster mushroom Pleuorotus sajor-caju PL27
rubber sawdust is the main source of carbon for mushroom production. Most mushroom (now known as Pleuorotus pulmonarius)
production, such as oyster (grey, white, pink, yellow, abalone and King Oyster), wood
ear, split gill, enokitake, lingzhi, milky mushroom, shiitake etc are totally dependent on Constrain with availability of substrate
rubber sawdust. However, there are few types of mushrooms that use other lignocellulosic The main constrain related to substrate
materials. Paddy straw mushroom production in Kedah uses empty fruit bunch, while one in the Malaysian mushroom industry is
company in Teluk Gadong produces produces button mushrooms using substrate (compost the insufficient supply of rubber sawdust.
of agro-wastes), spawn and other materials imported directly from the Netherlands. The dwindling supply of rubber sawdust,
However, utilisation of rice straw and empty fruit bunches are still low due to its unfavorable caused by shrinking cultivated area of
production cycle and low productivity. rubber plantation and competition with
furniture industry, has put small and
Formulation of substrate medium size farmers in a vulnerable
The formulation of mushroom substrate plays an important role in ensuring higher position. Large commercial farms pre-
productivity. Mushroom substrate is generally produced by mixing rubber sawdust, rice book sawdust, leaving small and medium-
bran and lime or gypsum in a ratio of 100:10:1. Lignocellulosic material supplies carbon, size industrial players on the verge of
bran supplies nitrogen and vitamin, and lime or gypsum plays an important role in collapse.
bringing the pH to a favorable level for mycelia growth and fructification. The 100:10:1
formulation is applied for all the mushroom production except split gill, paddy straw and Therefore, alternative lignocellulosic
button mushrooms. For spilt gill mushroom production, a different ratio of 100:50:1 of materials need to be explored for the
rubber sawdust, rice bran and lime is used because split gill mushrooms require a higher Malaysian mushroom industry to flourish.
level of nitrogen for its anamorphic and teleomorphic growths. Some large commercial Wastes from the palm oil industry such
farmers have developed their own formulation with the addition of other material such as as frond and trunk have huge potential
soy waste to the sawdust-rice bran-formulation. Additives and ratios are kept secret due to be considered as alternative substrate
to its obvious proprietary nature. There is also another instance of an alternative additive, for rubber sawdust, thus protecting the
where one shiitake farmer (whose farm has since closed) added a certain percentage of interest of small and medium industry
Berangan sawdust in his normal sawdust-rice bran-formulation substrate mixture. players.

Production of paddy straw mushroom Empty fruit bunches beneath the Rubber sawdust for mushroom Rice straw bales on rice field
using empty fruit bunches at Kuala oil palm trees production Source: https://eq2u.com.my/ternakan-qurban/
keperluan-penternakan/penternakan-lembu/bekal-
Nerang, Kedah. an-makanan-lembu/jerami-padi/
 Vol.19 (2023) 9
SUCCESS STORY

Tanjong Karang Agro

Technology Park

By: Fadzlirahimi Ismail

MARDI Tanjong Karang
E-mail: fbi@mardi.gov.my

R A F T
D
T
he development of MARDI’s Agro Technology Parks have
created a platform to transfer viable technology to the pub-
lic. These parks have been developed based on the concept
of 5 elements: Technology, Innovation, Conservation, Education
and Recreation, abbreviated as TICER. Through technology and
innovation elements, MARDI’s Agro Technology Parks exhibit
numerous latest technologies and innovation. While display of
traditional methods and equipment as well as a wide collection
of various plant varieties fulfill the conservation element, edu-
cation and recreation elements are translated by transforming
MARDI’s actual research plots to living classroom edutainment
for public to get live and real information.
To date, MARDI has developed nine Agro Technology Parks;
Cameron Highlands, Langkawi, Cherating, Kuala Kangsar,
Kluang, Bagan Datuk, Jeram Pasu and Tanjong Karang with a
specific concept at each park. MARDI Cameron Highlands was
developed to cater for highland crops, MARDI Langkawi for
tropical island, MARDI Cherating leads the crop and livestock
integration concept, MARDI Kuala Kangsar with emphasises
Durio tourism, MARDI Kluang is known as the cowboy and
livestock park, MARDI Bagan Datuk highlights coconut innova-
tion, MARDI Jeram Pasu promotes tropical fruit collections and planting, traditional fishing methods, boating and cycling. It is
MARDI Tanjong Karang is known for its paddy and rice info- worth to experience the full package offered, as it is one of its kind
tainment park. in the country. There are also packages that covers outdoor educa-
Aesthetically located in the middle of a paddy field in Kg. tion sites such as the Laman Nanas, Laman Nadir, Laman Pisang
Sungai Sireh, Taman Agro Teknologi MARDI Tanjong Ka- and Laman Kelulut where large collections of crop varieties are
rang,(TATMTK) is easily reached through the West Coast pri- being conserved. A visit to TATMK will definitely give you unfor-
mary road connecting Kuala Lumpur to the North Peninsular gettable memories and precious experience. The elders may spend
States. Formerly the Department of Agriculture’s paddy and rice time here browsing the collections of plants while kids can enjoy
research station, MARDI Tanjong Karang is now the Centre of the excitement of playing in the mud! In the pipeline, MARDI has
Excellence in paddy and rice research and is actively doing R&D plans to improve transportation facilities to enable visitors to have
on paddy variety evaluation (LVT), fertiliser research and is an opportunity to explore ongoing research activities. This 18 ha
also a registered seed production plot. land has been recently promoted as a local and international tour-
TATMK started in 2011 with the establishment of the ist attraction spot. To date, more than 10,000 visitors have enjoyed
Galeri Inovasi Padi. The gallery which was launched in 2020, and benefitted from the knowledge and outdoor activities.
is packed with information and samples regarding paddy and Come spend an awesome day at TATMTK. With just RM10
rice industries such as traditional and modern machineries in or RM20 ticket packages, it is really worth the visit as you get to
paddy production, MARDI’s rice varieties collection, information enjoy numerous entertaining activities. The park operates from
on pest and disease as well as downstream products made from 8.30 am to 4.30 pm daily except Fridays. Book your tickets now
rice. In addition, what makes this park different from the other and let’s get into the mud!.
agro tourism attractions is the guided outdoor activities. Besides
educational activities in the gallery, TATMTK offers visitors Facebook: Taman AgroTeknologi MARDI Tg Karang
plenty of memorable outdoor activities such as manual paddy WhatsApp: 013-374 0324
10 Vol.19 (2023)

COLLABORATION/NETWORKING
By: Nur Khalidah Zakaria and
Khairul Anuar Shafie
Engineering Research Centre, MARDI
E-mail: khanuar@mardi.gov.my

T
he Memorandum of Understanding
(MoU) between the Malaysian
Agricultural Research and
Development Institute (MARDI) and Maxis
Broadband Sdn. Bhd. was officially signed
on 12th January 2023 with the theme
“Agricultural Modernisation Through
Strategic Public-Private Partnership”.
The event was held at The Living Room,

T
Menara Maxis Kuala Lumpur City Centre,
signed by Dato’ Dr. Mohamad Zabawi
Abdul Ghani, MARDI Director General,
and Ms. Claire Featherstone, Chief

F
Enterprise Business Officer of Maxis and
witnessed by Dr. Mohamad Kamal Haji
Abdul Kadir, MARDI Deputy Director
General (Research) and Ms. Faslina
Roslina, Head of Government Segment,

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Enterprise Business of Maxis.

Strategic Cooperation for

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Smart Agriculture Solutions

D
The aim of the MoU is to establish strategic cooperation
between both parties to develop smart agriculture
solutions. MARDI sees the credibility of Maxis in the
digital technology that can modernize the agricultural
sector and support smart agriculture solutions, especially
in Malaysia. This collaboration opens a new opportunity to
explore areas of cooperation and contribution to produce
an affordable smart agriculture solution for those in low-
income groups and young entrepreneurs to optimise their
agriculture yield. In addition, it is also expected that the
collaboration will accelerate the use of smart technologies
directly to agricultural entrepreneurs in Malaysia.
Earlier, MARDI and Maxis have taken an early step
in strategic collaboration in 2020 when both parties were
involved in the 5G Malaysia Demonstration Projects (5GDP)
under the purview of the Malaysian Communications and
Multimedia Commission (MCMC). At that time, MARDI
Langkawi Station was chosen to implement 5G applications
in various fields such as education, infrastructure,
transportation, and smart agriculture solution. The project
went well even though our country faced COVID-19 and
Movement Control Order (MCO) restrictions at that time.
At the end of the MoU closing ceremony, both parties
visit the Maxis Business Innovation Centre (MBIC). The
MBIC is a space designed to serve as a hub to foster
innovation among SMEs, large companies, and MNCs. Mr.
Caleb Tan Chia Leh, a Specialist at MBIC also demonstrated
the Internet of Things (IoT) showcases including Smart
Security, AR/VR Glasses and Smart Agriculture. Here,
Maxis showed the power of digitalisation so businesses can
learn, discuss, and visualise digital transformation and
reimagine what’s possible.
Presently, MARDI and Maxis are currently working
together to develop a proof of concept (POC) for the smart
fertigation system for ginger production. The system
will apply various types of sensors and the IoT system to
optimise input and allow the user to monitor and control
the system remotely. This POC will be the first smart
agriculture solution to be promoted to farmers via the
Agropreneur Muda program planned for the future.
 Vol.19 (2023) 11
TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER
This incubatee graduated on January
6, 2021. He upgraded his pilot plant
upon graduation by procuring the same
machineries he had used during the
incubation programme. He also provides
job opportunities to ten employees. With
his determination and persistence, En.
Dzulhairie managed to market his product
to supermarkets in Tuaran, Kota Kinabalu,
Kota Belud, Kota Merudu, and Keningau
areas. It is also recorded that the incubatee
managed to obtain significant sales growth
from approximately RM 15,000 – RM

T
25,000 per month in 2018 to RM 25,000 –
RM 45,000 per month in 2021.
MARDI incubation programme has
enabled more entrepreneurs to have the

F
opportunity to use the pools of services
given by MARDI and the machineries and
equipment available at the facilities. In
RMK 12, MARDI is committed to upgrade
its facilities so that more entrepreneurs

A
could benefit and master product
processing on a larger scale.

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Upscaling Agro-businesses

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with MARDI’s Incubator Technology
By: Siti Shurazizah Sukhur, Norhayati Zaini and Azlan Loso
Technology Transfer and Entrepreneur Development Research Centre, MARDI
E-mail: ctshura@mardi.gov.my

M
ARDI’s incubator technologies are pilot plants with machines and equipment for
commercial-scale production. Technology incubators have been among the most
effective vehicles for transferring MARDI technologies. MARDI has successfully
developed four incubators located at MARDI Besut, Terengganu (potato-based bakery
products), MARDI Alor Setar, Kedah (rice-based products using 2nd and 3rd extrusion
technology), MARDI Kuala Linggi, Melaka (extraction of herbs-based essential oils and
by-products) and MARDI Kota Kinabalu, Sabah (production of fish-based products).
The MARDI incubation programme is designed to accelerate MARDI’s technology
transfer and diffusion of know-how. It offers technical services and also a physical
incubator equipped with infrastructure, pilot plant and office facilities.
This programme has been set for technology-based companies committed to
venturing into the agro-based industry with the potential and ambition to grow.
The specially tailored six months plus six months incubation programme is a
preparatory programme to equip technology-based companies with the necessary
knowledge and skills that give an accurate picture and hands-on experience to take the
following steps in their preparation before enrolling in actual business. Among the key
aspects that will be covered include information on technology know-how and technical
advice in all matters related to product processing. With these knowledge and know-how
they will learn and build valuable confidence in future undertakings.
The MARDI incubation programme offer the opportunity to better understand
the concept of complete incubation, especially in technological incubation. It helps the
potential incubatees to realize and adapt to natural environment of technology focus and
entrepreneurial activities and, in the end, enables R&D results to become marketable
products.
One of the success story in the MARDI incubation programme is Tasek Emas
Enterprise. The entrepreneur, En. Dzulhairie bin Saudin, the Managing Director of
Tasek Emas Enterprise is the first incubatee enrolled in the incubation programme at
Incubator MARDI Kota Kinabalu. The entrepreneur produces traditional Malay fish
cracker snacks.
En. Dzulhairie started a small-scale business and sold the products at night markets.
Then he had the opportunity to create the snacks on a large-scale using machineries
and equipment available in the incubator. MARDI also gave him technical advice and
guidance especially in product quality upgrading and improvement.
Keropok lekor making
12 Vol.19 (2023)
EVENTS
National Rice
Conference 2022
By: Amir Syariffuddeen Mhd Adnan
Paddy and Rice Research Centre, MARDI
E-mail: asyariff@mardi.gov.my
R A F T
D
T
he National Agriculture and Food Policy (NAP 2.0) was
enacted for the development of the long-term goal of the
national agricultural sector towords better food security.
It focuses on sustainable, resilient, and high-tech agriculture.
Paddy and rice industries as one of the four major sub-sectors in
NAP 2.0, emphasising optimal production for national SSL. For
the period from 2010 to 2019, the rice and paddy sub sector has
experienced an increase in SSL from 60.3% to 63.0%, and policy
makers had set a target to increase SSL to 75.0% by 2025. The
implementation of NAP 2.0 strategy and action plan will enable
the rice and rice sub-sectors to remain competitive, improve the
living standards of rice farmers and ensure the sustainability,
environmental safety of rice production. This objective is in line
with the policies of the Wawasan Kemakmuran Bersama 2030
(WKB 2030) and the principles of the Sustainable Development
Goal 2030 (SDG 2030).
In an effort to achieve these goals, the Malaysian
Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI)
in collaboration with the Rice Industry Development Division
(PIP MAFI), Department of Agriculture Malaysia (DOA), the
Muda Agricultural Development Authority (MADA), Kemubu
Agricultural Development Authority (KADA), the Board of
Farmer Organisations (LPP) and the Penang Integrated
Agricultural Development Area (IADA) organised the National
Rice Conference (PADI 2022) from 22 to 24 November 2022 at the
Raia Hotel and Convention Centre, Alor Setar, Kedah.
The PADI 2022 conference, themed Kelestarian Padi dan
Beras untuk Kemakmuran Bersama is the fourth conference on
paddy and rice that has been organised by MARDI, previously
held in 2010, 2013 and 2017. PADI 2022 was conducted in
Bahasa Malaysia and was inaugurated by YBhg. Dato’ Haslina
binti Abdul Hamid, Secretary General of MAFI. This event was
also attended by YBhg. Dato’ Dr. Mohamad Zabawi bin Abdul
Ghani, Director General of MARDI, YBhg. Dato’ Zahimi bin
Hassan, Director General of Department of Agriculture, YBhg
Dato’ Azulita Salim, Director General of the Board of Farmers’
Organizations; YBhg Tuan Haji Kamarudin bin Dahuli, General
Manager of the Muda Agricultural Development Board (MADA).
Nearly 500 participants consisting of policy makers, academics,
researchers, development officers, farmers, entrepreneurs and
industry representatives directly involved in the paddy and rice
industry attended the program.
Two MARDI technology products, namely the Early Warning
System (EWS) for Benah Perang attacks and the publication of
the MARDI Report : Pengeluaran Padi Dan Produk Berasaskan
Beras Tradisional Di Jelapang Padi, Batang Lupar, Sarawak
were launced during the opening ceremony.
In conjunction with the ceremony, the MOU exchange
meeting between MARDI and BERNAS was field and witnessed
by YBhg. Dato’ Haslina Abdul Hamid. The signed MOU covers
areas of cooperation in paddy and rice research such as scaling
up of selected paddy and rice technologies, research in post-
harvest handling research; socio-economic research in rice and
rice policy, and other areas of cooperation mutually agreed
upon by both parties.In the oral presentation session, a total
of 21 technical papers were presented, including one keynote
presentation, 3 plenary presenters and 17 invited papers. The
keynote presentation was delivered by Datuk Azman Mahmood,
Secretary of MAFI Rice Industry Development Division (PIP)
titled SMART Sawah Berskala Besar (SMART SBB) - Kelestarian
Bekalan Padi Beras Negara. The oral presentation was divided
into 3 sessions, namely Session 1: Pemerkasaan Teknologi Dan
Inovasi Padi Dan Beras Ke Arah Kelestarian Pengeluaran,
Session 2: Strategi Pengurusan Dan Teknologi Pengeluaran Padi
Dan Beras and Session 3: Peranan Agensi Kerajaan Dan Swasta
Dalam Memakmurkan Industri Padi Negara. In addition, a total
of 75 poster papers were presented by conference participants and
the organizers had also organised a forum session on PADI 2022,
which was attended by industry representatives. In addition to
the lecture sessions, PADI 2022 also conducted technical visits
with 80 participants at two locations, namely the Kedah State
Rice Museum and the North Branch National Science Centre
in Alor Setar, Kedah. In summary, PADI 2022 was successfully
conducted after a series of postponements due to the pandemic
season. The main objectives of PADI 2022 were achieved and the
organisers were able to disseminate the latest information about
the country’s rice industry, new problems and how to overcome the
challenges in the sector. The conference also promoted networking
participation and collaboration among industry players.
 Vol.19 (2023) 13
EVENTS
Agrobiodiversity and Agroenvironment Symposium (A-BES 2022):

Agrobiodiversity Driving
Food Security
By: Adam Harris Gerten Ritay Abdullah

T
Agrobiodiversity and Environment Research Centre, MARDI
E-mail: gerten@mardi.gov.my

A
gricultural biological diversity or agrobiodiversity has

F
great potential in addressing three of today’s global
challenges, namely food security, climate change
and sustainable agriculture. Thus, it is important to raise
awareness especially among policy makers and stakeholders
about the importance of agrobiodiversity and to identify

A
solutions that can contribute to the development of new
knowledge and technology.
In addressing this issue, Malaysian Agricultural
Research and Development Institute (MARDI) organised
the Agrobiodiversity and Agroenvironment Symposium

R
(A-BES 2022) in Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu, which was
attended by nearly 150 researchers, policy makers, lecturers,
According to him, MARDI also conducts studies to assess the effects of
students, farmers, enthusiast and other stakeholders.
climate change such as high temperatures and haze on crops such as
Theme as ‘Agrobiodiversity Driving Food Security’, the main
grain corn, pineapple and papaya as well as an assessment of insects

D
objectives of this symposium was to create a representative
in the highlands, in addition to actively carrying out the development
forum, gathering various institutions directly involved in
of rice varieties. MARDI also had thousands of crop genetic materials
agrobiodiversity conservation, climate change, ecosystem
being conserved in genebanks across the country, as a way to address
management and biological control and to exchange current
food security. “The technological research and innovation planned
knowledge in the field. In addition, it can also be used as
and carried out at MARDI was to support MAFI and related agencies
a medium of collaborative network, as well as formulating
such as the Ministry of Environment and Water and other agencies in
future strategies in facing the global challenges faced at the
preparing strategies for adaptation and mitigation of the agricultural
moment, including food security.
sector against climate change,” he said.
The three-day symposium (October 4th - 6th, 2022) was
At the ceremony, MARDI also launched the book The Hidden
co-organised with Forest Research Institute of Malaysia
Treasure - Crop Wild Relative which displays 25 species of wild plant
(FRIM) and Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA), with
relatives found in this country and categorized as lesser-known species
the support of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industries
that survived in their own unique habitats. The purpose of producing
(MAFI). It was officiated by the Secretary General of MAFI,
the book is to record the details of all species of wild plant relatives that
YBhg. Dato’ Haslina Abdul Hamid. During her speech, the
have been collected and conserved by MARDI. A photography and short
introduction of several new tuberous crop varieties was
video competition was also held in conjunction with the symposium,
highlighted, where it could diversify the country’s food crop
with the participation of 104 participants.
source. The transfer of tuberous crop plants expertise to the
Dr. Mohamad Kamal b. Hj. Abdul Kadir, Deputy Director General
target group, especially farmers, could also help generate the
of MARDI, stated that a holistic study is necessary at all levels; policy,
economy of that group.
research and development, as well as consumer, in ensuring food
The introduction of new alternative plant sources such as
security in Malaysia is to be strengthened. In his closing speech, he
yams with high nutrition, were among the initiatives that
also added that as a result of the recent COVID-19 pandemic and wars
can ensure the country’s food security. “Food security is one
abroad that threatened food security around the globe, Malaysians have
of the main elements supported by MAFI and in the research
to work hard to make this country self-sufficient. The continuous and
aspect, MARDI continuously helps the ministry to ensure the
necessary support from the government as well as the private sector
Subsistence Level (SSL) for the country’s food is always at
was also needed in terms of allocation of research funds.
an optimal level”, she added. In the meantime, she stressed
The symposium ended successfully with a total of 10 plenary and 18
that the challenge of strengthening food security in the face
working papers presented. It was hoped that this symposium had given
of climate change is the core of climate smart agriculture
participants a chance to express their ideas, assess the significance
research led by MARDI.
of agrobiodiversity and agroenvironment on the scientific stage, and
Also present at the symposium was MARDI’s Director-
discuss solutions to these challenges.
General, YBhg. Dato’ Dr. Mohamad Zabawi b. Abdul Ghani.
14 Vol.19 (2023)

COMMERCIALISATION

to distribute certified seeds of the MR220

CL1 and MR220 CL2 varieties, which are
packaged with OnDuty® herbicide. This
licensing agreement has been in effect for
five years, and the company has committed
to renewing it in 2016 and 2020. This nearly
two-decade-long collaboration is a testament
to the successful integration of advanced
technology and the company’s commitment to
enhanc the quality of rice production, thereby
preventing the spread of weedy rice. MARDI
and BASF (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. were awarded
the Malaysian Commercialization Year 2016

T
in the Research & Business Partnership
category. According to BASF’s business
reports, the total estimated sales of MRQ 220
certified seeds from 2011 to 2022 is 19,015,860

F
kg, which is equivalent to 950,793 bags (20 kg
per bag). MARDI has earned royalties of RM
4,578,908.80 from total sales. This implies
that farmers prefer this variety due to its
consistent yield, particularly the MR 220 CL2

A
variety, which has a shorter maturity period
and tree height compared to the MR 220 CL1.
In addition to annual monitoring, the
Technology Commercialisation and Business

R
Centre (CB) periodically monitors the
company’s commercialisation operations.

Combating
Furthermore, CB and the technology
generator group make every effort to
support the company in case of any technical

Weedy Rice

D
challenges or other issues. As part of continued
research on MRQ 220 technology, MARDI
and BASF (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. continues to
collaborate in the development of the MRQ
220 CL3 variety. Ideally, this collaboration
will continue to enhance the paddy industry,
thereby increasing the country’s production of
rice.
By: Fiona Naqiah Mustapha, Nor Shanirul Zuhaini Mohd Rosli and
Muhammad Harith Mohd Sesis
Technology Commercialisation and Business Centre, MARDI
E-mail: fiona@mardi.gov.my

R
ice farmers worldwide are currently grappling with a unique weed problem.
Weedy rice, a close relative of cultivated rice, has posed a persistent threat to
Asia’s direct-seeded rice culture and has become a significant problem in all
grain-growing regions of Malaysia since its discovery in 1988. Weedy rice biotypes
have a similar shape to cultivated rice varieties, making them more difficult to
control than other weed types, and weedy rice cannot be harvested because it
shatters and lodges easily, which negatively affects rice yield. Weed control is a
crucial factor that contributes to the high production costs of rice and competition
from weedy rice results in an annual loss of USD 40 million in rice yields.
In tropical climates, a moderate infestation of weedy rice (15 – 20 panicles /m2)
can result in a yield loss of 12 to 15%. With a high infestation (21 to 30 panicles
/m2), yield loss can increase to 15 to 22%. In cases of heavy infestation (more
than 50 panicles/m2), weedy rice plants may lodge and cause a complete loss of
yield. Conventional herbicides are ineffective in eliminating weedy rice because
it is genetically similar to cultivated rice. However, the introduction of herbicide-
tolerant rice cultivars under the Clearfield Production System (CPS) have aid in the
control of weedy rice (Oryza sativa Complex) during direct-seeding in Malaysia.
Clearfield Production System consists of a combination of imidazolinone
tolerant varieties (MR 220CL1 and MR 220CL2) and imidazolinone herbicides.
This system efficiently controls weedy rice in wet-seeding culture, a feat that no
other herbicides or systems can achieve. The CPS is the first herbicide-tolerant rice
produced in Malaysia that is not genetically modified, and its application have a
direct and positive impact on the local rice industry by providing efficient chemical
control for managing weedy rice and other harmful paddy weeds. The introduction
of CPS marks the beginning of a paradigm shift in contemporary agriculture aimed
at more effective control of weedy rice.
On August 5th, 2010, MARDI and BASF (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. entered into an
exclusive licensing agreement, granting BASF (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. the rights

COMMERCIALISATION
T
A F
CAMOB products in liquid and solid form
D R
Blossom end rot (BER) in tomato
End rot (ER) in chili
M
alaysia is dependent primarily on conventional methods to
create, grow and sustain agricultural productivity in its
early years of development. Chemical fertilisers are widely
used to supply plant nutrients. Malaysia now imports around
RM4.52 billion in fertilisers each year. With the extension and
intensification of agricultural lands in Malaysia, it is projected that
the use of mineral fertilisers would continue to rise. Considering
fertiliser inputs are the most expensive component of Malaysian
crop commodity production, adequate fertilisation application is
critical to ensure profitability.
MARDI’s newly developed Calcium Mobiliser (CAMOB) is
designed to lessen the effects of crop calcium deficient physiological
disorders which cause crop output and quality to drop dramatically.
CAMOB has been researched as a foliar treatment for use at a
physiological age when calcium need is high. This usually happens
during the rapid period of vegetative growth and fruit formation
stage where calcium demand for cell wall formation exceeds the
rate at which calcium is being supplied naturally. CAMOB is
unique in its capacity to re-employ calcium from mature leaves
to actively young transpiring leaves. In contrast to the more
typical calcium nitrate-based calcium supplement, CAMOB is
made from a non-toxic edible chemical. Plant calcium nutrition is
notoriously difficult to control, owing to its relatively poor mobility
in comparison to other main mineral nutrients.
Many crops physiological disorders such as bloom end-rot (BER)
in tomato, fruit end rot in chili and capsicum, heart rot in mango,
chiku, Chinese cabbage, tip-burn in lettuce and fruit splitting in
mango, citrus and dukong have been ascribed to calcium deficiency.
Vol.19 (2023) 15
CAMOB
Helps Reduce Calcium
Deficiency in Plants
By: Muhammad Syahren Adzahar
Soil Science, Water and Fertiliser Research Centre, MARDI
E-mail: syahren@mardi.gov.my
Easy fruit bruise in Star fruits
These calcium deficient syndromes are not necessarily due to
lack of calcium in the root zone but rather due to a transient
imbalance supply of calcium relative to cell demand during
active growth stages such as rapid leaf expansion and
early stage of fruit development. If calcium demand for cell
wall and membrane construction is not being met, the cell
membrane permeability becomes affected and is less resilient
in response to changes in soil water regime, relative humidity
and temperature. The rapture in cell membrane leads to
many of the calcium physiological disorder mentioned above.
Calcium is also known to impart strength in cell wall in fruits
which makes them resilient against external stress forces.
CAMOB was created using an organic acid with a high
affinity for calcium. It is water soluble and easily absorbed by
plant via foliar application. Under common storage conditions,
it is stable. It can also translocate calcium throughout the
plant. To improve the efficacy of CAMOB against numerous
calcium disorders, it can be preloaded with a high calcium
concentration before its usage. So far, test findings show that
it is 100% effective in minimising the yield effect of BER in
tomato and increasing ridge strength in star fruits to reduce
fruit bruising. There is also evidence that CAMOB can reduce
fruit end rot in chili by 90%, potentially increasing production.
There is undoubtedly a market niche for this product because
many crop calcium physiological issues go misdiagnosed or
untreated, resulting in crop losses.
To commercialise the goods, our commercial partner
SMS Ventures Holdings Sdn. Bhd. replicated the CAMOB
formulation procedures established in the laboratory in a
commercial plant. SMS Ventures is a Malaysian firm that
specialises in agriculture commercialisation services. The firm
has been collaborating with the China Academy of Inspection
and Quarantine (CAIQ) Test in Malaysia, which offers them
access to China’s technology and lab facilities. SMS Ventures
is projected to offer a variety of agricultural services,
such as aid with agricultural product commercialisation,
development of new agricultural technology and laboratory
testing services to verify product quality and safety.
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