Euglena Malaysia team participated in the Hyper Interdisciplinary Conference Malaysia 2024 (HIC MY 2024), focusing on leveraging technological advancements in agriculture to enhance Malaysia's food resilience. The event showcased research and innovations in aquaculture, key food crops, and livestock, aiming to draw attention from corporations and governments for cross-border collaborations. This initiative is critical for advancing agricultural technology and securing national food security. The conference encouraged participation from academia, offering a platform for researchers, faculty, and students to present their findings.

Event Summary

The event on February 24th spanned from 09:00 to 18:15, starting with registration and followed by an opening ceremony. Key highlights included a keynote speech, multiple panel sessions focusing on aquaculture technology, regenerative agriculture, and future-proofing the livestock industry. Additionally, two HIC Splash rounds emphasized spearheading innovation in agriculture. The day also featured a poster presentation, a session linking space science with agriculture, and concluded with an awards ceremony and a photo session.

A more detailed report is provided below.

KEYNOTE SPEECH - Agrofood Security through National Innovation

Speeker
YBhg. Datuk Azah Hanim Ahmad
Deputy Secretary General (Policy)
Ministry of Agriculture & Food Security

The keynote speech by YBhg. Datuk Azah Hanim Ahmad, Deputy Secretary General (Policy) of the Ministry of Agriculture & Food Security, at the Hyper Interdisciplinary Conference in Malaysia 2024 was a profound elucidation on the topic of agrofood security. Datuk Azah Hanim Ahmad underscored the critical need for innovation within the agriculture sector of Malaysia, highlighting the importance of employing breakthrough technologies to bolster food security and ensure the resilience of the food supply chain.

In her address, YBhg. Datuk Azah Hanim Ahmad presented "PINTAR" as a strategic framework comprising five key strategies aimed at advancing the nation’s agricultural industry, encompassing plants, livestock, fisheries, and agriculture-based businesses. The strategies detailed in her speech are as follows:

1. Development of Industrial Capacity & Infrastructure: Focusing on enhancing the capabilities and structural foundations necessary for the agricultural industry to thrive.
2. Institutional Governance and Reform: Prioritizing improvements in the organizational structures and policies that govern the agricultural sector to foster better management and efficiency.
3. Research, Development, Commercialization and Innovation (R&D&I): Emphasizing the need for ongoing R&D to drive innovation, with a view towards commercializing these advancements to benefit the industry.
4. Technological Advancement and Automation: Advocating for the adoption of modern technologies and automation to increase productivity and reduce labor-intensive processes.
5. Expansion of Network Collaboration: Encouraging the expansion of networks and partnerships among different stakeholders to facilitate collaboration and knowledge-sharing.

The commitment expressed by the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to implement these strategies indicates a promising direction for Malaysia, aiming for a future where the agriculture sector is not only sustainable but also a pillar of economic strength and food security.

PANEL SESSION 1: Redefining Aquaculture Tech: A symbiotic Venture for the Community and Sustainability

Speaker

Ms. Melissa Saw
CEO
LuFloc Sustainable Aquatech Sdn. Bhd.

_{Ms. Melissa is the founder of LuFloc, a startup pioneering sustainable super-intensive shrimp farming. With prior hands-on experience in traditional shrimp farming, a degree in biomedical engineering from Imperial College London, and a full stack developer, she brings a unique blend of technical expertise and passion for sustainability to her work.}

_{Melissa is committed to leading Lufloc’s mission in shrimp farming that is both economically viable and environmentally sustainable, through lowering disease risk, optimizing yields, whilst ensuring highest quality shrimp supply to support food security.}

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Murni Marlina Abd Karim
Deputy Director
International Institute of Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences (I-AQUAS)

_{Dr. Murni Karim is an Associate Professor at the Department of Aquaculture, Faculty of Agriculture and also a Deputy Directer at the International Institute of Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia. She obtained her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from UPM and a Ph.D. from the University of Rhode Island, United States. She is also currently an honorary secretary of the Asian Fisheries Society. She has made significant contributions to fish disease management and the aquatic biotechnology field. Her research interest involves the use of multidisciplinary approaches for the prevention and management of infectious diseases in aquaculture. She has published extensively and numerous journal articles and has led and participated in major research projects. She has won awards for her research and teaching innovations, and developed significant industry and international collaborations. A mentor to many students and an active member of academic and professional communities, her work has had a broad impact on aquaculture and aquatic sciences.}

Prof. Dato’ Dr. Aileen Tan Shau Hwai
Director
Centre for Marine and Coastal Studies (CEMACS), USM

_{Prof. Dato’ Dr. Aileen Tan Shau Hwai, a Marine Science Professor at Universiti Sains Malaysia, holds Fellow status in the Academy of Science Malaysia. Currently, she directs USM’s Centre for Marine and Coastal Studies (CEMACS), heads the Asia-Pacific University-Community Engagement Network (APUCEN), and serves as Vice Chair of IOC Western Pacific (WESTPAC). She has been elected as the first woman president of the 60-years old UNITAS Malacologica, which is based in Belgium, from 2013-2016. She sits on the board of Partnership for Observations of the Global Oceans (POGO) and plays pivotal roles in organizations like CoastPredict, Global Ocean Corps, EquiSea, GO2NE and Global Partnership in Marine Litter. Specializing in mariculture and mollusc conservation, she champions green aquaculture, empowering coastal communities in Malaysia while prioritizing environmental protection. Recognized with the Top Research Scientist Award in Malaysia (TRSM) in 2020 for her expertise in “Mariculture and Marine Ecology, Biodiversity & Conservation”, she fosters community empowerment and environmental stewardship, earning accolades for her giant clam conservation efforts, including the Best Women Scientist award. She has initiated several Malaysia Book of Records for her contribution in molluscan studies.}

The dialogue on aquaculture technology underscores its pivotal role in reshaping the future of food production. As we navigate through the challenges of meeting the increasing demand for food, aquaculture emerges as a sustainable solution, harmonizing the need for ample food supplies with the imperative to preserve our planet's health. This conversation highlights the transformative potential of aquaculture, offering a controlled and secure means to bolster protein supply, thereby reinforcing food security. It's a clarion call for Malaysia to galvanize collaborative endeavors to integrate advanced aquaculture technologies, propelling the aquaculture and fishing industry towards sustainability and resilience.

The discussion covered the integration of the Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) with genetic research, particularly focusing on the improvement of species through genetic enhancement. An example provided was the evolution of aquaculture practices from traditional outdoor methods to more controlled environments, such as in vitro and Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS). This conversation was part of an online discussion on aquaculture technologies, which emphasized not only conventional techniques like remote monitoring of fish farms but also a broader perspective on technological advancements in the field.

Sustainability was defined as fulfilling the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. In the context of aquaculture, and shrimp farming in particular, sustainability encompasses environmentally friendly practices, social responsibility, and profitability, as these elements are essential for the sustainable execution of aquaculture operations, thereby ensuring that farmers are incentivized to continue their practices.

Technological advancements in aquaculture were highlighted, including the use of RAS and Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA), which enable high-density farming and effective water quality management, thereby reducing environmental impacts. The adoption of new technologies, such as IoT and AI for real-time monitoring, was also emphasized, showcasing the potential for innovation in the aquaculture sector.

Compared to traditional farming methods, technology-driven aquaculture has been shown to reduce environmental impacts, lower disease risks, and minimize exposure to plastic pollution, leading to safer and more sustainable seafood production. However, challenges in technology adoption were identified, particularly for small-scale farmers who may find it difficult to afford expensive technologies or may be resistant to moving away from traditional practices. Other challenges include the need for education and training, a shortage of experts, and the complexity of new technologies.

The transition to sustainable aquaculture practices requires education, collaboration with government agencies, and the development of simple, accessible technologies. For aquaculture to contribute to food security, it is essential to develop technologies that reduce disease risks, increase production, and minimize environmental impacts.

PANEL SESSION 2: Sustaining Key Food Crops through Regenerative Agriculture

Speaker

Prof. Dr. Jennifer Ann Harikrishna
Director
Centre for Research in Biotechnology for Agriculture (CEBAR), UM

_{Prof. Jennifer Ann Harikrishna completed her BSc in Microbiology at the University of Surrey then her PhD in Molecular Genetics at Cranfield University, before moving to the USA for a post-doctoral fellowship at the University of California in San Francisco. In Malaysia, she has held positions at TropBio Research Sdn. Bhd., University Putra Malaysia and Malaysia University of Science and Technology. Prof. Jenni is currently a Professor of Genetics and the Director of CEBAR at the Universiti Malaya. Prof. Jenni is also an Honorary Visiting Fellow in the Department of Genetics and Genome Biology at the University of Leicester, UK.}

Mr. Kumaran Rajagopal
Principal Agronomist
Sime Darby Plantation Research Sdn. Bhd.

_{Mr. Kumaran Rajagopal, a seasoned professional with an impressive 24-year background in Research and Development (R&D), complemented by 5 years of expertise in plantation management. His extensive contributions encompass groundbreaking research and effective management strategies within the domains of oil palm and rubber agronomy and production.}

Dr. Kazuki Nakamae
Senior Researcher
PtBio Inc.

_{Dr. Kazuki Nakamae obtained his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees and a Ph.D. in molecular genetics at Hiroshima University, Japan. He is currently a senior researcher at PtBio Inc. and an Assistant Professor at PtBio’s Collaborative Laboratory of Bio-DX, Genome Editing Innovation Center, Hiroshima University, Japan. He has contributed to genome editing and bioinformatics. He established some automated design and analysis software for CRISPR editing. He also devised a novel algorithm for quantifying the off-target effect on phenotype in academia, while he is currently committing to several genome analysis projects in collaboration with Japanese companies in PtBio Inc.}

Malaysia remains committed to taking proactive steps to advance the paddy and rice sector, as well as the development of other key food crops. However, the effects of climate change are expected to amplify the difficulties in augmenting crop yields and attaining food security in the coming years. One avenue to address this is through the adoption of regenerative agriculture. This approach harmoniously combines sustainable modern practices with traditional methods. Regenerative agriculture not only enhances soil health but also leads to increased productivity and the production of high-quality food. Additionally, it plays a pivotal role in combating climate change and rejuvenating lost biodiversity.

During a conference where the understanding of regenerative agriculture was shared, it was highlighted that regenerative agriculture focuses on sustainable farming practices that emphasize soil health, reducing the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, diversifying crops, and integrating livestock to enrich the soil. This farming approach supports the foundation of food safety and offers a solution to the soil depletion challenges faced by modern agriculture. Although not yet widely practiced on large-scale farms, there is a movement towards adopting these scientific-based traditional methods to achieve sustainable and healthy soil.

Representatives from the research center based at a Malaysian university, discussed how innovations in biotechnology could contribute to regenerative agriculture. Their research, focusing on soil biodiversity and crop genetic improvement, aids in promoting eco-friendly farming practices. They also emphasized the role of education and research in supporting agricultural technological innovation and bridging the gap between the agricultural community and policymakers.

Regenerative agriculture is recognized as a crucial approach to enhance agricultural sustainability in Malaysia and many other countries. By centering on soil health and considering the balance of ecosystems, it is possible to build a better food production system. The widespread adoption and practice of regenerative agriculture can increase agriculture's resilience to the impacts of climate change and support future food security.

PANEL SESSION 3: Future-Proofing the Livestock Industry

Speaker

Mr. Jason Ng Chin Aik,
Manufacturing Vice President
Cell AgriTech Sdn Bhd

_{Mr. Jason Ng Chin Aik, boasting over 15 years of extensive experience in manufacturing. His niche expertise lies in areas such as quality management systems, product & process design, validation, and regulatory requirements. Jason currently holds a pivotal role as Manufacturing Vice President of Cell AgriTech Sdn Bhd. He also contributes his expertise to several committees and advisory boards, such as the Government Affairs and Regulatory and Technical Committee of AMMI, as well as the Industry Advisory Board in Applied Science Medical Biotech at the International Medical University.}

Mr. Syed Naufal Putra Syed Ja’afar
Founder
Biovet International Sdn. Bhd.

_{Mr. Syed Naufal Putra Bin Syed Ja’afar brings a wealth of experience to his role as Founder at Biovet International Sdn. Bhd. With a background spanning various leadership positions in the veterinary sector, he served as the Head of the Department of Veterinary Services in the Jasin District of Melaka from 2013 to 2018 before assuming the role of Head of Training Department for Veterinary Services in the Melaka State. Graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Veterinary Medicine from UPM in 2023, he continued to excel, taking on the position of Head of the Bureau of Livestock and Fisheries Department in the Johor State of Teraju Council from 2024 to 2027. Additionally, Mr. Syed Naufal Putra contributed to his community as the Deputy Vice President of the Red Crescent Society in the Jasin District from 2020 to 2022. His diverse expertise and commitment to service make him a valuable asset to Biovet International Sdn. Bhd.}

Professor Dato’ Dr. Quaza Nizamuddin Bin A Hassan Nizam
Head of School of Veterinary Medicine
Taylor’s University

_{Professor Dato’ Dr. Quaza Nizamuddin Bin A Hassan Nizam, esteemed as the Head of School for the School of Veterinary Medicine within the Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences at Taylor’s University, boasts a distinguished academic and professional journey. Graduating with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Universiti Pertanian Malaysia in 1984, he pursued further academic excellence, attaining a Master of Science in Tropical Veterinary Epidemiology and Preventive Veterinary Medicine from the Free University Berlin, Germany, in 1994. Dr. Quaza’s illustrious career includes serving as the Director General of Veterinary Services Malaysia from June 5th, 2017, to March 9th, 2020. During this tenure, he held significant roles such as President of the Malaysian Veterinary Council, Chairman of the Animal Welfare Board, and Chairman of the Feed Board, showcasing his leadership acumen and commitment to advancing veterinary sciences. With a rich background in education, he has adeptly instructed para-professionals and farmers at the Veterinary Training Institute. Dr. Quaza’s hands-on experience extends to the successful management of large-scale beef and dairy farms, demonstrating his profound expertise in livestock production and animal health over his remarkable 38-year career.}

The livestock sector in Malaysia, particularly the beef sub-sector, has faced numerous challenges in contributing significantly to the domestic supply of red meat. Despite various attempts ranging from extensive ranching to intensive feedlotting, sustainable growth in the beef industry has remained elusive. The panel discussion titled "Future-Proofing the Livestock Industry" brought together esteemed experts to explore innovative strategies and technologies to revitalize and sustain the beef sub-sector in Malaysia.

Current State of the Beef Sub-Sector:
The panel initiated the discussion by evaluating the current state of the beef sub-sector in Malaysia, characterized by small herd sizes, low production inputs, and a lack of technological adoption.

Technological Innovations and Sustainable Practices:
Mr. Jason Ng Chin Aik emphasized the importance of integrating technological innovations such as precision farming and biotechnologies in improving productivity and sustainability. He highlighted Cell AgriTech's efforts in advancing regenerative agriculture practices that could serve as a blueprint for future-proofing the livestock industry.

Veterinary and Health Management:
Mr. Syed Naufal Putra Syed Ja’afar shared insights from his extensive experience in the veterinary sector, discussing the critical role of effective health and disease management practices in enhancing livestock productivity and welfare.

Education and Capacity Building:
Professor Dato’ Dr. Quaza Nizamuddin Bin A Hassan Nizam addressed the importance of education and capacity building among farmers and livestock professionals. He stressed the need for continuous learning and the adoption of best practices in animal husbandry to ensure the industry's sustainability.

Policy and Regulatory Framework:
The panelists collectively underscored the necessity for supportive policies and a conducive regulatory environment that encourages innovation, investment, and sustainable development within the livestock sector.

The panel session on "Future-Proofing the Livestock Industry" provided valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities within the beef sub-sector in Malaysia. By embracing innovation, sustainability, and collaboration, the industry can pave the way for a more resilient and productive future.

Panel Session 4 Report: Space Science and Agriculture

Speaker

Mr. Razwan Zakaria
Chief Product Officer
Aerodyne Group

_{Mr. Razwan is appointed as Chief Product Officer for AGRIMOR to develop and market new agriculture 4.0 solutions in UAV precision technologies, IoT systems, and mechanization. He currently leads a team of 210 people consisting of UAV pilots, innovators, engineers, and technicians. Razwan has 15 years of experience in management and technology development-related projects. His specialization is projected in the areas of electronics and oil & gas. He was also responsible for setting up and operationalizing Aerodyne Australia. Assisted Group and Director of Operations for operations in different states in Australia.
In his capacity, he has also led Digital Transformation projects for clients in the telecommunications, power, renewable energy, and the oil & gas industry. Client and stakeholder engagements to formulate UAV use case, the scope of operations, methodologies, testing, and validation for clients in Australia, the United States, Latin America, the United Kingdom, Europe, and the Middle East.}

Dr. Kuhan Chandru
Research Fellow
Institute of Climate Change

_{Dr. Kuhan Chandru received his Bachelor’s degree in Marine Biology in 2005 and his Master’s degree in Environmental Geochemistry in 2010 in Malaysia. He obtained his Ph.D. in Advance Material Chemistry focusing on prebiotic chemistry at the Yokohama National University in 2013 supported by the Japanese MEXT scholarship.
Upon his graduation, he was recruited by the Earth-Life Science Institute (ELSI) working on hydrothermal vents’ prebiotic chemistry. He was a research fellow at the University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague from 2018 to 2020, and the National University of Malaysia from 2018 to date.
The focus of his current work is to discover new chemistries that could have facilitated or enabled the origins of (microbial) life. His work has featured in major international newspapers and magazines such as the Guardian and Indian Express, New Scientist and Science News, and international and local channels such as Syfy and BFM}

Dr. Norilmi Amilia Ismail
CEO, Founder
SpaceIn Sdn. Bhd.

_{Dr. Norilmi Amilia Ismail is the founder and CEO of SpaceIn, a small satellite manufacturing company for IoT applications, and a senior lecturer at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM). She is also the first President and co-founder of Malaysia Space Initiative, a non-profit organisation with a mission to help advance the Malaysian space industry. She is on the committee for the Malaysia Space Industry Consortium, too. She is currently a mentor for Space4Women mentoring program, organised by the United Nations Outer Space Affair (UNOOSA). She is a fellow of Karman Project, an independent, non-profit foundation gathering global leaders shaping the Space sector’s future. Norilmi holds a master’s degree in Space Mission Analysis and Design and a PhD in Mechanical engineering from the University of Glasgow, United Kingdom. Her research interest are focus on small satellite system and High Altitude Platform. She is driven by a deep-seated desire to make a meaningful impact through her involvement with SpaceIN and other organisations. Her mission is to ensure that the advantages of space technology are harnessed to benefit humanity at large.}

The fourth panel session titled "Space Science and Agriculture" brought together a group of esteemed experts to discuss the transformative benefits of space science on agriculture. The panel consisted of Mr. Razwan Zakaria from Aerodyne Group, Dr. Kuhan Chandru from the Institute of Climate Change, and Dr. Norilmi Amilia Ismail from SpaceIn Sdn. Bhd. Each panelist brought unique insights into how advancements in space science and technology can significantly enhance agricultural practices, ensuring food security and sustainability for future generations both on Earth and beyond.

Mr. Razwan Zakaria, with his extensive experience in UAV precision technologies and IoT systems, highlighted the role of drones in precision agriculture. He emphasized how drones equipped with multispectral cameras and IoT devices can provide critical data on crop health, soil conditions, and environmental factors. This real-time data allows for informed decision-making and optimization of resources, leading to increased crop productivity and sustainability.

Dr. Kuhan Chandru discussed the implications of space experiments on plant biology and the potential benefits for agriculture. He pointed out that experiments in microgravity aboard the International Space Station offer unique insights into plant growth and development, which can lead to innovative agricultural practices on Earth. These experiments help in understanding how plants adapt to different environmental conditions, which is crucial for developing resilient crop varieties.

Dr. Norilmi Amilia Ismail shared her expertise in small satellite systems and their applications in agriculture. She explained how satellites provide a global perspective, enabling comprehensive monitoring of agricultural lands. Satellite technologies, particularly in communication, navigation, and remote sensing, play a pivotal role in precision farming. They facilitate IoT connectivity in remote areas, provide navigation data for autonomous farm machinery, and offer valuable imagery for monitoring crop health and environmental conditions.

The panelists also discussed the integration of drone and satellite technologies for enhanced agricultural practices. This synergy allows for precise monitoring and treatment of crops, leading to better resource management and crop yields. The discussion highlighted the need for infrastructure development, education, and data analysis to fully leverage these technologies for agriculture.

The session concluded with a Q&A, where the panelists addressed various inquiries from the audience, further emphasizing the potential of space science and technology in revolutionizing agriculture. The insights shared during this panel underscore the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in advancing agricultural practices through space science, ultimately contributing to global food security and sustainability.