KUCHING: This year’s fifth International Symposium on Insects (ISoI2023) signifies the commitment to explore the world of insects that are often disregarded and misunderstood, all while uncovering their untapped possibilities and benefits, said Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development Datuk Roland Sagah Wee Inn.
Roland hoped the symposium, themed ‘Unveiling the Hidden Prospect of Insects’, will increase the general public’s knowledge of insects.
“Insects are more than merely fascinating representatives of biological sciences. Their uniqueness in physical forms, characteristics, and functions presents a wealth of learning topics for integrating Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines.
“I believe every entomologist is responsible for increasing the general public’s knowledge of insects and their vital roles in our lives.
“We are keen and enthusiastic about collaborating with the Entomological Society of Malaysia (ENTOMA) and universities to establish a Sarawak Science Centre that highlights insects and their vital contributions to the ecosystem,” he said in his speech at the opening ceremony of ISoI 2023 here today.
His speech was read out by Sarawak Research and Development Council (SDRDC) general manager Dr Peter Morin Nissom.
ISoI 2023 encompasses a wide range of topics related to insects, including agricultural entomology, behavioural and chemical ecology, biodiversity and conservation, entotourism, entomophagy, insect physiology and biochemistry, among others.
The symposium from Sept 11 to 13 is organised by ENTOMA, in collaboration with the Centre for Insect Systematics (CIS), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Sarawak, and the Faculty of Resources and Technology University Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS).
Some 150 delegates from Malaysia, Indonesia, Pakistan, Sudan, Japan and the USA will share and exchange ideas on research and findings related to insects.
This is the first time Sarawak is hosting this international symposium.
