On 31 March 2025, a delegation from the Embassy of Malaysia in Thailand paid a courtesy visit to Asst. Prof. Dr. Chaowaree Adthalungrong, Executive Director of BIOTEC, and toured relevant laboratories to exchange knowledge and explore potential collaboration in agricultural research and biotechnology.
On this occasion, Mr. Shaiful Naszri Bin Abdul Wahid, Agriculture Counsellor at the Agriculture Counsellor Office, Embassy of Malaysia in Thailand, together with his delegation, paid a courtesy visit. The visit also provided an opportunity to introduce Mr. Muhammad Aswad Mohd Judin, who has recently assumed his position as the new First Secretary (Agriculture) of the office.
The key highlights of the presentations from each organization and research area are summarized as follows:
Mr. Shaiful Naszri Bin Abdul Wahid presented an overview of the mission of the Agriculture Counsellor Office, emphasizing its role in promoting agricultural cooperation, strengthening food security, and fostering collaborative networks between Malaysian and Thai agencies.
Dr. Sithichoke Tangphatsornruang, Deputy Executive Director of BIOTEC, presented an overview of BIOTEC, covering its mission, research infrastructure, and its role in driving Thailand’s bioeconomy through research and innovation.
Mrs. Wannipha Tongsima presented NSTDA’s Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI) management strategy, highlighting integrated collaboration across sectors and the translation of research outputs into practical and commercial applications.
Dr. Wannit Wimuttiyuk presented an overview of aquaculture research focused on improving productivity, biosafety, and industry sustainability. Dr. Samaporn Teeravechyan highlighted advances in animal health, virology, and vaccine technologies, including collaboration with Sarawak Infectious Disease Centre (SIDC) on infectious diseases.
In biotechnology, Dr. Apiradee Hongthong presented algae-based applications across industries and collaboration with Sarawak Biodiversity Centre (SBC). Dr. Benjarat Bantengsuk focused on biorefinery approaches to valorize biomass and agricultural waste, while Dr. Kriengkrai Mosaleeyanon presented plant factory technologies for precise, high-quality crop production.
In addition, the delegation visited BIOTEC’s research facilities, including the BIOTEC Bioprocessing Facility (BBF), a key infrastructure supporting pilot-scale bioprocess development and the translation of research into industrial applications.
This visit reflects the shared commitment of both parties to strengthening collaboration in science, technology, and innovation, contributing to sustainable development and enhancing regional competitiveness in the future.
