MIRI: A team of researchers will embark on revolutionising mushroom farming following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) here on Wednesday.
It was inked between Curtin Biovalley Sdn Bhd, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Curtin University Malaysia that manages and operates the Sarawak Biovalley Pilot Plant (SBPP) and CGE Global Sdn Bhd.
The signing of MoU marks the beginning of a transformative journey in the mushroom cultivation industry, leveraging mushroom spore inoculation and an innovative growth substrate derived from water hyacinth, an invasive aquatic plant.
“Our collaboration with CGE Global is a testament to our commitment to sustainable agricultural practices and environmental preservation,” said CBV director Associate Professor Dr Pieter Willem Pottas.
“Together, we are taking a holistic approach to mushroom cultivation, introducing innovative technologies that will drive economic growth while addressing ecological challenges.
“We are confident that this partnership will create lasting positive change in the farming community and beyond. Such research and development is the forte of the SBPP, and as a Sarawak government-owned entity and one of the state’s leading research facilities, we are proud to be part of the effort to promote the uniqueness of Sarawak, including its emerging technological and scientific capabilities.”
Dr Pottas represented CBV at the signing while general manager Alvin Esqandar Chiam represented CGE Global.
Pottas said the signing of such MoU was very significant for Curtin Biovalley Sdn Bhd and the Sarawak Biovalley Pilot Plant as it will allow the researchers at the SBPP to not only conduct meaningful research that will impact the business of its clients and industry partners, but also renew CBV’s commitment to support the advancement of small and medium-sized enterprises in Sarawak and Malaysia through contract and collaborative R&D.
Mushroom farming has historically relied on traditional practices but this collaboration between CBV and CGE Global promises to revolutionise the sector, driving it towards sustainability and environmental consciousness.
As part of the collaboration, CBV will provide comprehensive training and technical support to local SMEs and local mushroom farmers, empowering them with the knowledge and tools to adopt cutting-edge techniques successfully.
By utilizing water hyacinth as a growth substrate, the collaboration aims to contribute to the eradication of this invasive species, effectively addressing environmental concerns while promoting eco-friendly farming practices.
The introduction of mushroom spore inoculation technology is poised to significantly increase mushroom yields and consistency, fostering economic growth for farmers and the agricultural sector.
“Innovation cannot stand in isolation, and to solve real-world problems, CBV and the SBPP need to work with real-world partners.
“We actively engage with industry to ensure that research at the SBPP can be turned into commercially viable products that benefit individuals and whole communities at national and global levels,” said Dr Pottas.
