Enza Zaden Asia Sdn Bhd, a Netherland based leading vegetable breeding company has finally completed its first South East Asia Research and Development (R&D) infrastructure facility in Perak, Malaysia.
This milestone achievement expands the company’s network in vegetable seeds research and agricultural development through its 45 subsidiaries and three joint ventures in 25 countries. The R&D facility based in Malaysia is set to cater to the agriculture seed markets in 12 countries in the region and beyond, ultimately serving farmers worldwide to cultivate high-quality vegetables, for the daily consumption of over 450 million people globally.
This development ties in well with Malaysia’s aspiration for high-value food product manufacturing which can facilitate the growth of talents in this innovative industry.
In 2016, Enza Zaden was awarded BioNexus Status by the Malaysian Bioeconomy Development Corporation Sdn. Bhd. (Bioeconomy Corporation), an economic development agency under the supervision of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industries Malaysia (MAFI) that provides support and facilitation to drive the biotechnology and bio-based industries in the country. Mr. Mohd Khairul Fidzal Abdul Razak, CEO of Bioeconomy Corporation commented, “Enza Zaden is the first global seed player to receive BioNexus Status in Malaysia. With the establishment of this R&D centre, we believe the company could develop innovative seed varities that are suitable for tropical climate and soil conditions. We are confident that the research outcomes from this R&D centre will benefit and uplift local farmers besides contributing to the national food security. We will continue to support the company and we look forward to their future success in adding value to the global seed industry”.
The modernisation of agricultural activities in Malaysia provides farmers with good accessibility to obtaining sustainable raw materials. Continuous research efforts in identifying and modifying seeds varieties that suit the local soil and climate conditions are crucial to ensure an ample supply of vegetables, fruits, and crops across the regions. A robust local food production ecosystem would also enhance the food processing industries allowing them to better manage high imports costs and food security requirements.
The Company’s latest investment in Sauk is built with a conducive working environment along with state-of-the-art R&D seed processing and research facilities. Mr. Jaap Mazereeuw, CEO of Enza Zaden expressed, After a thorough analysis, the Enza board decided to invest in Malaysia by having an R&D farm of more than 20 hectares. We are committed to empowering many small-holder vegetable farmers across the region. We aim to provide them with solutions and opportunities and to bring a smile to their face”.
Mr. Pankaj Malik, Regional Director of Enza Zaden Asia, added, “Establishing a new office and having a dedicated team of R&D with local experience and knowledge, will help identify the needs of the local growers and the local market. This enables us to develop the best high-performing varieties, totally attuned to the local (climate) conditions”.
Enza Zaden has invested over RM100 million in Malaysia and employed more than 100 local workforces through its existing facility. The Company’s technical training contributes to the capacity building of Malaysia’s agricultural workforce, preparing them for the future-ready skillsets.
