On November 13, 2024, Nutrition Technologies Sdn Bhd (NTSB) and the Environmental Biotechnology Research Group (EnVBiotech) from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) convened at the T02 Al-Hazen Meeting Room, Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Science, UTM, to explore innovative solutions for sustainable agriculture.
NTSB, a Malaysian biotech company, specializes in harnessing the natural potential of local insects to create value-added feed ingredients and agricultural products. Their mission-driven approach focuses on strengthening domestic supply chains by producing high-value, affordable insect-based products for livestock and crop production. Utilizing an award-winning tropical production system, NTSB combines micro-organisms and black soldier flies to accelerate the decomposition and recomposition of organic matter, aligning with their commitment to reducing environmental impacts.
EnVBiotech, led by Dr. Fazilah Abd Manan, is a multidisciplinary research group within UTM’s Faculty of Science. The group focuses on environmental biotechnology, aiming to develop sustainable solutions for environmental challenges through innovative research and collaboration.
The meeting centered on potential collaborations in fundamental research, specifically focusing on omics, rhizobiome, and soil-microbe interactions in plants treated with Black Soldier Fly (BSF) frass, compost, or chemical fertilizers. Discussions also included the possibility of conducting joint research and field trials, aiming to develop innovative solutions for sustainable agriculture.
Following the insightful meeting, the NTSB team visited the Faculty of Science’s Living Lab, guided by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Norahim Ibrahim, gaining valuable insights into ongoing research initiatives.
This collaboration holds promise for groundbreaking discoveries and innovative solutions in sustainable agriculture, contributing to a greener future. By combining NTSB’s expertise in insect-based biotechnology with EnVBiotech’s research capabilities, the partnership aims to enhance agricultural practices and promote environmental sustainability.
Stay tuned for updates on this exciting partnership!
