SERDANG, 12 January 2026 – The Institute of Plantation Studies (IKP) received a courtesy visit from the Institute of Bioscience (IBS) for the Universiti Putra Malaysia Microbial Culture Collection (UPM-MCC) Roadshow Program. IBS Director, YBhg. Prof. Dr. Zunita Zakaria, attended the program accompanied by Puan Musliyana Mansur and Cik Ainaa Syafiqah Mohd Alias.

A briefing was delivered by Prof. Dr. Zunita, explaining the importance of preserving significant microbial cultures to support long-term research, teaching, and learning needs. She also introduced the UPM Policy on the Deposition of Significant Microorganisms 2024, which has been approved by the University Management Board.

A total of 15 IKP representatives attended, including YBhg. Prof. Dr. Wong Mui Yun (Deputy Director of IKP), Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ganesan Vadamalai (Head of SACP Laboratory), research officers, assistant science officers, and postgraduate students. IKP participants were briefed on the types of culture depositions at UPM-MCC, namely Public Deposit, Safe Deposit, and Patent Deposit, as well as other services offered by UPM-MCC.

The briefing aimed to clarify the types and procedures of deposition at UPM-MCC to ensure the safety of significant microorganisms for all researchers. This policy positions UPM as one of the National Depository Authorities, as well as an entity for microbial culture collection, conservation, and microbial biodiversity.

Microbial deposition is not merely storage, but a strategic step to ensure the continuity of research, protect innovation, strengthen education, and preserve biodiversity. It is a long-term investment that benefits the scientific community, industry, and the nation.

Date of Input: 13/01/2026 | Updated: 13/01/2026 | ainzubaidah