As we close another year, we reflect on the many impactful projects we were proud to undertake. This year was no less eventful than previous ones, and one of our highlights was our collaboration with the Malaysian Palm Oil Council (MPOC). Together, we aimed to provide science-based information to dispel the myths and misinformation surrounding palm oil—our “golden oil.” As a science communicator, tackling this subject has been a longtime dream of mine. I believe we have all the evidence needed to support palm oil and oil palm, but these scientific facts need to be repackaged with a balance of science and consumer values, communicated in language accessible to everyone. For the first time, we also attempted to communicate science through cooking show. Watch these videos on The Petri Dish Instagram page.
Another milestone for us was MABIC’s collaboration with the Malaysian Productivity Corporation (MPC) to assess the Malaysian biosafety framework. We conducted interviews and dialogues with stakeholders to understand the challenges they face in complying with biosafety procedures. This project also gave us insights into why, after nearly two decades, Malaysian R&D in genetic modification is still often stalled at the Proof of Concept stage—or even abandoned. We have submitted our findings to MPC in hopes of supporting meaningful changes.
MABIC was also honoured to support STEM education for Tamil schools across the nation. With funding from the Malaysian Indian Transformation Agency (MITRA), we launched a special 4-page pull-out in Tamil within The Petri Dish, which reached all 525 Tamil schools nationwide. You can read more about this initiative on page XX.
This year marked the 7th anniversary of the “Asian Short Course in Agribiotechnology, Biosafety, and Communication” (ASCA), organised by MABIC and ISAAA in Bangkok. This annual course provides a crucial platform to advance agribiotechnology development in Asia, with support from the Thailand Department of Agriculture, USDA, CropLife Asia, Murdoch University, US Grains Council, US Soy Export Council, Agriculture and Food Systems Institute, PtBIO, Corteva, Futuragene, and BAA Thailand.
Additionally, MABIC and ISAAA played key roles in organising a gene editing workshop with ASEAN COSTI in Jakarta. Several Southeast Asian countries are still struggling to establish policies for gene editing, and delays come with a high opportunity cost across sectors, including agriculture, medicine, industry, and environmental science.
The Petri Dish continues its commitment to supporting science, technology, and bioeconomy development. By featuring both scientists and companies, we aim to increase visibility for local innovations and encourage collaboration. In this issue, we begin a new series highlighting cutting-edge technologies from PtBIO, a Japanese company with operations in Malaysia. See page XX for more details.
You might have noticed a change in the paper quality of The Petri Dish. We are now printed by NextGreen Global, a biotechnology company with pioneering technology to manufacture paper from oil palm empty fruit bunches. This shift aligns with our commitment to sustainability and our support for biotech innovations.
Much of my time this year was also spent as a resource person and speaker on topics like gene editing, science communication, food security, and STEM talent development. A highlight was my visit to Nigeria, where I engaged with veterinarians—a new and promising audience—on how they can utilise modern biotechnology to support food security.
Managing these initiatives as a lean organisation is no easy feat, but the journey as a science communicator remains profoundly fulfilling. Here’s to an even more exciting year ahead.
Wishing everyone a HAPPY NEW YEAR! Your support helps us promote science literacy—together, let’s keep building a more informed world.
