Slow Adoption of Biotech Crops Could Cost Malaysia

Picture: Food security needs to be bolstered with all the means available | Photo by Lee Kwai Han

In an article by Macaranga, Saarani Vengadesen expresses concern over Malaysia’s slow update of biotech crops as a solution in the midst of droughts and heavy rainfall disrupting agriculture.

As one of Southeast Asia’s agricultural powerhouses, Malaysia faces a growing challenge: how to sustain its agricultural output while protecting the environment.

With climate change affecting rainfall patterns, rising temperatures, and increasing pest resistance, traditional farming practices are struggling to meet the demands of both farmers and the planet.

To tackle these issues, Malaysia must seriously consider adopting biotech crops, which offer a promising solution to preserve both the environment and agricultural productivity.

Biotech crops are genetically modified (GM) and gene edited (GE) crops, developed using modern biotechnology to exhibit specific traits like drought resistance, pest resistance, and herbicide tolerance on a molecular level.

They have the potential to adapt to the impacts of climate change and mitigate environmental issues in Malaysia.