Malaysia has developed potential new cassava varieties using nuclear technology that can mature in about six months, nearly half the 11 to 12 months needed by existing local varieties.
Malaysian Nuclear Agency research officer Norazlina Noordin said the new varieties, developed through research that began in 2021, also recorded higher yields than conventional planting materials.
She said the varieties could be commercialised within the next two years, subject to further evaluation and development.
The research aims to shorten cassava’s maturity period without compromising yields, potentially allowing farmers to plant the crop more frequently and improve returns.
The project was carried out with the Department of Agriculture and supported by the International Atomic Energy Agency, including a research grant of about RM100,000 over five years.
The technology involves exposing cassava stem cuttings to gamma radiation before planting and screening them for desirable traits such as early maturity and high yields.
Norazlina said the process does not leave radioactive residue in the planting materials because the radiation passes through them, similar to an X-ray.
However, developing stable new varieties requires extensive screening. Researchers must assess at least 1,000 plants and track their characteristics across generations to ensure the desired traits do not revert.
The same technology is also being studied for crops including bananas, sweet potatoes and taro, with research focusing on higher yields and resistance to diseases, pests and changing weather conditions.
