Enza Zaden Asia, the regional wing of the Dutch based vegetable breeding company, announced the completion of its first South East Asia Research and Development (R&D) infrastructure facility in Perak, Malaysia
This milestone expands Enza Zaden’s network in vegetable seeds research and agricultural development through its 45 subsidiaries and three joint ventures in 25 countries. The R&D facility based in Malaysia is set to cater for the agriculture seed markets in 12 countries in the region and beyond and will help farmers to cultivate high-quality vegetables for global supply and consumption.
Datuk Arham Abdul Rahman, chief executive officer of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), said, “Enza Zaden’s R&D centre contributes significantly to the national aspiration to implement smart agriculture through the utilisation of agri-technology and sustainable raw materials in line with the national framework for food security and the global initiatives for plant-based proteins to reduce carbon emissions.”
“The growing opportunities in high-value food product manufacturing will facilitate the Malaysian talents in gaining knowledge on new processes and product development, apart from expanding the exports of Malaysian-made food products,” he added.
In 2016, Enza Zaden was awarded the ‘BioNexus’ status by the Malaysian Bioeconomy Development Corporation Sdn. Bhd. (Bioeconomy Corporation), an economic development agency under the supervision of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industries Malaysia (MAFI) that provides support and facilitation to drive the biotechnology and bio-based industries in the country.
Mohd Khairul Fidzal Abdul Razak, CEO of Bioeconomy Corporation commented, “Enza Zaden is the first global seed player to receive BioNexus Status in Malaysia. With the establishment of this R&D centre, we believe the company could develop innovative seed varieties that are suitable for tropical climate and soil conditions. We are confident that the research outcomes from this R&D centre will benefit and uplift local farmers besides contributing to the national food security.”
According to Enza Zaden, the modernisation of agricultural activities in Malaysia provides farmers with good accessibility to obtaining sustainable raw materials. Continuous research efforts in identifying and modifying seed varieties which suit the local soil and climate conditions are crucial to ensure an ample supply of vegetables, fruits and crops across the regions. A robust local food production ecosystem would also enhance the food processing industries allowing them to better manage high import costs and food security requirements.
Jaap Mazereeuw, CEO of Enza Zaden, expressed, “As part of our initiatives to serve the South East Asian farmers well, we recognised that research and breeding under local conditions are imperative in facilitating sustainable agricultural systems. After a thorough analysis, the Enza board decided to invest in Malaysia by having an R&D farm of more than 20 ha. We are committed to empowering many small-holder vegetable farmers across the region. We aim to provide them with solutions and opportunities and to bring a smile to their face."
Pankaj Malik, regional director of Enza Zaden Asia, added, “Establishing a new office and having a dedicated team of R&D with local experience and knowledge, will help identify the needs of the local growers and the local market. This enables us to develop the best high-performing varieties, totally attuned to the local climatic conditions."
