Latest news with #ForestResearchInstituteMalaysia

Barnama
11 hours ago
- Business
- Barnama
FRIM Enhances Efforts To Commercialise Forest Resource-based Research Innovations
KUALA LUMPUR, June 17 (Bernama) -- The Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM) continues to strengthen its role in the development of forest resource-based technology and innovation through the comprehensive execution of research, development, commercialisation, and application (RDCA) activities. FRIM said the initiative represents a strategic effort by the institute to support Malaysia's aspiration of becoming a high-tech nation by the year 2030. 'In line with the Forestry Research Institute Malaysia Act 2016 and the National Research, Development, Innovation, Commercialisation and Economic (RDICE) Roadmap, FRIM plays a key role within the national innovation ecosystem by fostering collaboration between the research sector, industry, and government. 'This effort is guided by the National Science, Technology and Innovation Policy (NSTIP) 2021-2030, which aims to achieve research and innovation investments totaling RM85.7 billion,' FRIM said in a statement. It added that it plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between research laboratories and the market by actively participating in national initiatives such as Malaysia Commercialisation Year and working closely with the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI). According to FRIM, several approaches have been implemented to drive innovation, including the provision of technology packages, product certification, technical advisory services, and incubation activities through its Innovation and Commercialisation Division. 'FRIM's intellectual property is managed through the Technology Information Management System (TIMS), ensuring that innovation outputs are well-protected and ready for commercialisation. These efforts are further supported by its wholly owned subsidiary, FRIM Incorporated Sdn Bhd, which plays a pivotal role in facilitating technology licensing and translating research outcomes to meet market demands,' it said. 'Among FRIM's key achievements is the successful commercialisation of clones and extracts from local herbs such as Kacip Fatimah (Labisia pumila) and Cucur Atap (Baeckea frutescens) which are now incorporated into natural wellness products with strong potential to enter international markets. The institute also provides consultancy and technology transfer services to both government agencies and the private sector. These services encompass a wide range of areas, including biomass product development, plantation silviculture, eco-friendly product certification, and biodiversity mapping.


The Sun
11 hours ago
- Business
- The Sun
FRIM enhances efforts to commercialise forest resource-based research innovations
KUALA LUMPUR: The Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM) continues to strengthen its role in the development of forest resource-based technology and innovation through the comprehensive execution of research, development, commercialisation, and application (RDCA) activities. FRIM said the initiative represents a strategic effort by the institute to support Malaysia's aspiration of becoming a high-tech nation by the year 2030. 'In line with the Forestry Research Institute Malaysia Act 2016 and the National Research, Development, Innovation, Commercialisation and Economic (RDICE) Roadmap, FRIM plays a key role within the national innovation ecosystem by fostering collaboration between the research sector, industry, and government. 'This effort is guided by the National Science, Technology and Innovation Policy (NSTIP) 2021-2030, which aims to achieve research and innovation investments totaling RM85.7 billion,' FRIM said in a statement. It added that it plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between research laboratories and the market by actively participating in national initiatives such as Malaysia Commercialisation Year and working closely with the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI). According to FRIM, several approaches have been implemented to drive innovation, including the provision of technology packages, product certification, technical advisory services, and incubation activities through its Innovation and Commercialisation Division. 'FRIM's intellectual property is managed through the Technology Information Management System (TIMS), ensuring that innovation outputs are well-protected and ready for commercialisation. These efforts are further supported by its wholly owned subsidiary, FRIM Incorporated Sdn Bhd, which plays a pivotal role in facilitating technology licensing and translating research outcomes to meet market demands,' it said. 'Among FRIM's key achievements is the successful commercialisation of clones and extracts from local herbs such as Kacip Fatimah (Labisia pumila) and Cucur Atap (Baeckea frutescens) which are now incorporated into natural wellness products with strong potential to enter international markets. The institute also provides consultancy and technology transfer services to both government agencies and the private sector. These services encompass a wide range of areas, including biomass product development, plantation silviculture, eco-friendly product certification, and biodiversity mapping. In addition, FRIM offers expertise in the development of nature trails and ecotourism projects, contributing to efforts in environmental sustainability. 'Through strategic collaborations with various local and international organisations, FRIM is also actively involved in implementing greening initiatives aimed at preserving biodiversity and raising public awareness on the importance of reforestation,' it added. FRIM stressed that the success in creating both commercial and social value from research outcomes underscores how forest resource-based scientific innovation can significantly contribute to national economic development. In line with this, FRIM remains committed to leading the development of an inclusive, innovative, and sustainable forest-based industry for the benefit of the nation.


The Sun
11 hours ago
- Business
- The Sun
FRIM enhances efforts to commercialise forest resource-based research
KUALA LUMPUR: The Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM) continues to strengthen its role in the development of forest resource-based technology and innovation through the comprehensive execution of research, development, commercialisation, and application (RDCA) activities. FRIM said the initiative represents a strategic effort by the institute to support Malaysia's aspiration of becoming a high-tech nation by the year 2030. 'In line with the Forestry Research Institute Malaysia Act 2016 and the National Research, Development, Innovation, Commercialisation and Economic (RDICE) Roadmap, FRIM plays a key role within the national innovation ecosystem by fostering collaboration between the research sector, industry, and government. 'This effort is guided by the National Science, Technology and Innovation Policy (NSTIP) 2021-2030, which aims to achieve research and innovation investments totaling RM85.7 billion,' FRIM said in a statement. It added that it plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between research laboratories and the market by actively participating in national initiatives such as Malaysia Commercialisation Year and working closely with the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI). According to FRIM, several approaches have been implemented to drive innovation, including the provision of technology packages, product certification, technical advisory services, and incubation activities through its Innovation and Commercialisation Division. 'FRIM's intellectual property is managed through the Technology Information Management System (TIMS), ensuring that innovation outputs are well-protected and ready for commercialisation. These efforts are further supported by its wholly owned subsidiary, FRIM Incorporated Sdn Bhd, which plays a pivotal role in facilitating technology licensing and translating research outcomes to meet market demands,' it said. 'Among FRIM's key achievements is the successful commercialisation of clones and extracts from local herbs such as Kacip Fatimah (Labisia pumila) and Cucur Atap (Baeckea frutescens) which are now incorporated into natural wellness products with strong potential to enter international markets. The institute also provides consultancy and technology transfer services to both government agencies and the private sector. These services encompass a wide range of areas, including biomass product development, plantation silviculture, eco-friendly product certification, and biodiversity mapping. In addition, FRIM offers expertise in the development of nature trails and ecotourism projects, contributing to efforts in environmental sustainability. 'Through strategic collaborations with various local and international organisations, FRIM is also actively involved in implementing greening initiatives aimed at preserving biodiversity and raising public awareness on the importance of reforestation,' it added. FRIM stressed that the success in creating both commercial and social value from research outcomes underscores how forest resource-based scientific innovation can significantly contribute to national economic development. In line with this, FRIM remains committed to leading the development of an inclusive, innovative, and sustainable forest-based industry for the benefit of the nation.


The Sun
5 days ago
- The Sun
FRIM upgrade to boost ecotourism for Visit Malaysia Year 2026
KUALA LUMPUR: The infrastructure upgrade at the Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM) in Kepong, including the reconstruction of a 12-metre suspension bridge, is expected to enhance its ecotourism appeal ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VMY2026). FRIM director-general Datuk Dr Ismail Parlan said the project includes reconstructing the bridge using durable hardwood and support cables with safety 'u-clip' netting, as well as installing an informational map panel in the Borneo Plot near the Sungai Kroh picnic area. He said the initiative was carried out in collaboration with the government and corporate partners, including Hibiscus Petroleum Berhad, which contributed RM96,000 through its corporate social responsibility (CSR) programme to enhance FRIM's ecotourism facilities. 'This effort extends beyond just infrastructure enhancement. It demonstrates a strong corporate commitment to long-term environmental and biodiversity conservation,' he told reporters after visiting the site today. Present were Hibiscus Petroleum Berhad Corporate Finance head Joyce Vasudevan and Corporate Development vice president Lily Ling. Ismail said the Borneo Plot is one of FRIM's unique attractions, featuring forest species native to Borneo, which is renowned for its tropical biodiversity, including kapur baji (Dryobalanops lanceolata) and engkabang (Rubroshorea macrophylla). Established as a research site, the Borneo Plot also serves as an outdoor learning space for students and visitors, as well as a conservation area for endangered species. He said FRIM has evolved from being a research and innovation centre into a hub for nature-based tourism and environmental education, drawing both local and international visitors. As such, he said that FRIM will work closely with the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry to make early preparations for VMY2026. 'Last year, we recorded 157,699 visitors. This year, we are targeting 200,000 -- not only to enjoy the natural surroundings but also to raise public awareness about the importance of forests and biodiversity,' he said. FRIM, declared a National Heritage site in 2015, is currently in the final stage of nomination as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.


The Sun
6 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
Malaysia committed to developing alternative timber sources to meet global needs
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia remains committed to exploring and developing alternative wood sources through strategic, innovative, and sustainable approaches, in line with rising global demand for locally produced wood products. The Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM) said the initiative is crucial not only for the long-term viability of the country's timber industry but also to maintain Malaysia's position as one of the world's leading exporters of wood products. 'With the growing global demand for locally produced wood products, there is now greater focus on ensuring a sustainable and consistent supply of raw materials,' FRIM said in a statement. Malaysia's timber industry continues to demonstrate robust growth, with total exports reaching RM22.9 billion last year. According to FRIM, timber remains vital across multiple sectors, including furniture manufacturing, biofuel production, and biocomposites. However, the ecological functions of native forests, such as regulating climate and supporting biodiversity, extend far beyond timber production. This underscores the urgent need to explore sustainable alternatives, to reduce reliance on natural forests. In response, FRIM said the government, through the Malaysian Timber Industry Board (MTIB), has introduced the the Forest Plantation Development Programme (PPLH), to reduce reliance on natural forests. 'The programme involves the cultivation of eight high-value tree species, including akasia, khaya, jati, and kelempayan, along with fast-growing species such as eucalyptus and bamboo. These have been proven capable of meeting the demands of the timber industry, without compromising natural forest ecosystems,' it said. FRIM said that it plays a key role in the initiative, through research and development efforts focused on forest plantations, high-quality tree propagation, wood processing technologies, and timber quality evaluation. 'FRIM's studies have demonstrated the strong potential of several selected plantation tree species to meet market demands while supporting environmental sustainability,' it added.