KUALA LUMPUR, 15 December 2025 — The Institute of Plantation Studies (IPS) at Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) recently undertook a significant courtesy visit to the Malaysian Rubber Board (MRB) at Bangunan Getah Asli, marking a pivotal step towards fostering enhanced collaboration between the two distinguished institutions. The IPS delegation, comprising all members of its management team, was led by its esteemed Director, Professor Ts. Dr. Siti Khairunniza Bejo. During the visit, the IKP management had the invaluable opportunity to engage in a dedicated meeting with the Director-General of the Malaysian Rubber Board, YBhg. Dato' Dr Zairossani Mohd Nor. This high-level engagement underscored the mutual interest in strengthening ties. Dato' Dr Zairossani was accompanied by several key representatives from MRB, including Dr. Mok Kok Lang, Dr. Goh Sou Sheng, Dr. Safiah Atan, and Mr. Ahmad Hamdan Othman, reflecting the comprehensive nature of the discussions.

The core of the programme involved a productive one-hour meeting and discussion session. These deliberations were strategically focused on exploring various avenues for expanded cooperation between Universiti Putra Malaysia, particularly through the expertise of IKP, and the Malaysian Rubber Board. The dialogue encompassed crucial areas aimed at leveraging the respective strengths of both organisations for mutual benefit and the advancement of the nation's rubber industry. Key areas identified for potential partnership included the initiation of joint research projects to drive innovation in rubber industry technologies and sustainable practices, the establishment of talent exchange programmes to facilitate professional development and knowledge transfer, and the development of structured attachment training opportunities for students and staff. These discussions are intended to pave the way for a more formalised relationship, with both parties expressing keen interest in eventually solidifying their commitment through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Such an agreement would provide a comprehensive framework for the implementation of collaborative projects and programmes, ensuring long-term impact. Professor Ts. Dr. Siti Khairunniza Bejo emphasised the critical importance of such collaborations for academic institutions. She stated, "Partnerships with pivotal industry players like the Malaysian Rubber Board are essential for LGM and UPM to ensure our research remains highly relevant and impactful. We eagerly anticipate a robust and fruitful partnership that will not only benefit both our institutions but also contribute significantly to the continuous advancement of the Malaysian rubber industry and, by extension, the nation's economy." This courtesy visit underscores UPM's ongoing commitment to forging strong ties with industry and governmental bodies, reinforcing its role as a leading research university dedicated to addressing national challenges and promoting innovation. The potential MoU represents a significant commitment towards a shared vision of excellence in research, development, and capacity building within the vital plantation sector.

Date of Input: 15/12/2025 | Updated: 16/12/2025 | faiz_mokhtar