SERDANG, 16 October – The Putra Plantation Forum 15, organized by the Institute of Plantation Studies (IKP), Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), brought together international rubber experts, young researchers, and industry players to discuss the future direction of sustainable rubber and emerging trends in modern plantation sectors.
Held under the theme “Advancing Sustainable Rubber Production Through International Research Collaboration”, the forum featured prominent figures including Dato’ Seri Dr. Abdul Aziz S.A. Kadir, Secretary General of the International Rubber Research and Development Board (IRRDB), who shared over five decades of experience in the natural rubber industry. He emphasized the importance of cross-border collaboration in research and development (R&D), and introduced innovative rubber-based products such as ENR (Ekoprena) and DPNR (Pureprena), which have expanded industrial applications. 📌 Key highlights from the forum: IRRDB’s insights on historic expeditions to Brazil and the development of high-yielding rubber clones Emphasis on disease resistance, latex quality, and technological integration in rubber plantations Proposal to adopt Thailand’s research funding model for implementation in Malaysia Introduction of IRRDB’s training programs and the prestigious Sekhar Award to recognize excellence in the rubber sector
IKP Director, Prof. Ts. Dr. Siti Khairunniza Bejo, stated that the forum serves as a bridge between academia and industry, aligning with UPM’s commitment to advancing sustainable plantation agendas. Meanwhile, Prof. Dr. Wong Mui Yun, Chairperson of the Organizing Committee, highlighted the forum’s goal to enhance the economic value of plantations through knowledge sharing and industry synergy. The forum was attended by 120 participants, including researchers, students, and industry representatives, who seized the opportunity to engage with experienced experts and explore new potentials in tapping technology, rubber processing, and livestock integration within rubber plantations.

Date of Input: 21/10/2025 | Updated: 21/10/2025 | ainzubaidah