About

Countries in the region vary widely, from newly industrialized economies to those hampered by inadequate infrastructure, limited financial resources, political turmoil and environmental disasters. With its diverse mix of people, cultures and traditions, working in the region poses both significant challenges and exciting opportunities.

This centre’s work is wide-ranging. It includes sustainable pest and disease management, invasive species prevention and management, and work around plant health, biosecurity and sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) issues. Also important is work looking at sustainable production techniques and commodity chains, as well as information management and access to knowledge.

The centre empowers local people to tackle various agriculture and environment problems in ways that will reduce impact on the environment, bring about better yields and increase trade in agricultural commodities between countries.

The CABI centre in Malaysia collaborates with a number of organizations in this dynamic region. Partners include industry bodies such as the Malaysian Palm Oil Board, research organizations such as the International Rice Research Institute, and national governments.

Looking to the future, agricultural production, market access and trade will continue to be important for countries in this region. The centre will continue to address the associated issues of biosecurity, sustainable crop management and capacity building, as well as the big challenges of food security, climate change, and loss of biodiversity and ecosystem services.

Equipped with a general office, a library, a training room and two laboratories connected to insect-screened houses, our centre carries out a wide range of activities, including:

• Conducting research and development on bioscience and ICT/ information
• Conducting farmer participatory training and research activities
• Organizing training courses for managers, scientists, information officers, extension workers and technicians
• Planning and implementing study visits and training attachments
• Co-supervising graduate and post-graduate students
• Producing and introducing biological control agents
• Consultancy work
• Conducting project development, co-ordination and implementation
• Disseminating and marketing information products and materials
• Linking countries with common interest areas through effective networking