The Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI) is a research agency dedicated to advancing knowledge and technology in the fields of food, agriculture, and the food industry. With a focus on science and technology, MARDI brings together a team of experts in food, crops, and livestock to generate agricultural advancements for societal well-being. In 1985, MARDI Sarawak was established to facilitate the transfer of viable and mature technologies developed by MARDI research centres. It also conducts agricultural and food research programs tailored to the needs of Sarawak state. MARDI Sarawak operates three research stations located in Kuching, Saratok, and Bintulu, each with distinct functions and responsibilities. MARDI Kuching, founded in 1985, specializes in food processing research and technology transfer. A notable achievement of MARDI Sarawak was the establishment of the MARDI Kuching Testbed in 2009, a technology laboratory focusing on bakery products, convenience food, and fish products. This testbed is one of nine similar facilities in Malaysia, contributing to technological advancements in the agricultural sector.

Source: Photos from Google and https://www.mardi.gov.my/

CRAUN Research Sdn. Bhd., established by the Sarawak State Government on July 22, 1993, is a leading entity in crop research and application. Initially known as the CRAUN Crop Research and Application Unit, it was later corporatized and renamed CRAUN Research Sdn. Bhd. on April 1, 1997. CRAUN's continuous research and development programs have contributed to the competitive advantage of the Sarawak sago industry by introducing new findings that enhance its value. The company aims to provide information on sago and its other activities, particularly important research and development findings, to a global audience, leveraging the opportunities presented by the digital landscape. With its headquarters in Kuching and multiple operational locations, CRAUN focuses on various research thrust areas, including crop improvement, mass propagation, agronomy, mechanization, milling technology, by-product utilization, product development, and market studies. The company also engages in techno-economic activities, such as exploring business potential, commercializing sago products and services, and collaborating with local and foreign agencies for economic and market research.

Source: Photos from https://craunresearch.com.my/

Sarawak Biodiversity Centre (SBC) was established in 1998 by the Sarawak State Government to conserve, protect, and sustainably develop the biodiversity of the state. Initially focused on inventory and regulation, SBC served as the gatekeeper to Sarawak's rich biodiversity for research and commercial purposes. In 2003, the State Legislative Assembly shifted SBC's role towards intensive biotechnology-based research and product development using the state's biological resources. SBC's vision is to enrich lives with breakthrough innovations in biodiversity, and its mission is to decode biodiversity for the benefit of Sarawak. The centre aims to document traditional knowledge of indigenous communities regarding the utilization of biological resources and preserve it for future generations. They also conduct research and development programs to discover herbal therapies, nutraceuticals, pharmaceutical drugs, and industrial products derived from Sarawak's biological resources. SBC's Natural Product Library holds a vast collection of natural products sourced from the diverse Sarawak rainforest, including indigenous plant species and microorganisms. This collection serves as a valuable resource for biodiscovery and collaborative research endeavours. SBC plays a crucial role in biodiversity conservation, traditional knowledge preservation, and biotechnology research for the benefit of Sarawak's ecosystems and local communities.

Source: Photos from https://www.sbc.org.my/

The Stutong Community Market in Sarawak, which opened in April 2007, stands out as a remarkable marketplace. It holds the distinction of being the first market in the region to incorporate a state-of-the-art waste treatment plant, emphasizing both convenience and environmental improvement. With its clean and spacious layout, the market has become a favourite among nature enthusiasts and locals. Boasting over 500 stalls, it is the largest market in Sarawak, offering a vibrant marketplace with a diverse range of products. The ground floor is divided into sections dedicated to meat, seafood, vegetables, fruits, and local snacks, providing shoppers with a wide selection of fresh and local produce. The market caters to different shopping preferences with separate wet and dry sections. On the first floor, visitors can explore food stalls serving a variety of local delicacies and traditional dishes. The Stutong Community Market is highly regarded among locals who seek fresh produce and Asian cooking ingredients. Apart from its extensive product offerings, the market prioritizes sustainability through its waste treatment facilities, minimizing the common problem of wetness in wet markets and creating a comfortable and favourable environment for both traders and customers.

Source: Google photos

Malaysian Pepper Board (MPB) is a federal statutory body under the Ministry Of Plantation & Commodities, established on 1st January 2007 under the Malaysian Pepper Board Act 2006. The MPB’s primary objective is to enhance the production, productivity, and quality of pepper while safeguarding the interests of pepper farmers and traders. It oversees various activities related to the cultivation, processing, marketing, and export of pepper, with the aim of maintaining Malaysia's position as a significant player in the global pepper market. One of the key functions of the Board is to provide technical assistance and support to pepper growers. It offers guidance on best agricultural practices, pest and disease management, and the adoption of modern farming techniques to optimize yield and quality. Additionally, the Board conducts research and development initiatives to improve pepper varieties, enhance post-harvest handling, and promote sustainable farming methods. It facilitates the licensing and registration of pepper-related businesses, regulates quality standards, and monitors the domestic and international pepper markets. By establishing and maintaining strategic partnerships with industry stakeholders, the Board promotes the Malaysian pepper brand and explores new market opportunities. In addition to its regulatory and promotional functions, MPB supports the welfare of pepper farmers through various initiatives. It provides financial assistance, training programs, and market information to empower farmers and enhance their livelihoods. The Board also assists in the development of pepper-based agro-tourism activities, which not only generate income for farmers but also promote tourism in pepper-growing regions.

Source: Google photos

The Stutong Community Market in Sarawak, which opened in April 2007, stands out as a remarkable marketplace. It holds the distinction of being the first market in the region to incorporate a state-of-the-art waste treatment plant, emphasizing both convenience and environmental improvement. With its clean and spacious layout, the market has become a favourite among nature enthusiasts and locals. Boasting over 500 stalls, it is the largest market in Sarawak, offering a vibrant marketplace with a diverse range of products. The ground floor is divided into sections dedicated to meat, seafood, vegetables, fruits, and local snacks, providing shoppers with a wide selection of fresh and local produce. The market caters to different shopping preferences with separate wet and dry sections. On the first floor, visitors can explore food stalls serving a variety of local delicacies and traditional dishes. The Stutong Community Market is highly regarded among locals who seek fresh produce and Asian cooking ingredients. Apart from its extensive product offerings, the market prioritizes sustainability through its waste treatment facilities, minimizing the common problem of wetness in wet markets and creating a comfortable and favourable environment for both traders and customers.

Source: Google photos

The Malaysian Cocoa Board (MCB) is a federal statutory agency under the Ministry of Plantation Industries and Commodities. It was established under the Act of Parliament 343 (incorporated) in 1988 and has been in operation since 1989. The main objective is to develop the cocoa industry in Malaysia to be well integrated and competitive in the global market. Emphasis is given to increasing productivity and efficiency in cocoa bean production and increasing downstream activities. It provides technical expertise, research, and development initiatives as well as training programs to assist cocoa farmers in adopting modern agricultural practices, improving crop yield, and managing pests and diseases effectively. MCB also focuses on quality control and certification to maintain the high standards of Malaysian cocoa. It establishes and enforces quality guidelines, conducts research on cocoa fermentation and drying processes, and certifies cocoa beans and products to meet international quality requirements. This ensures that Malaysian cocoa maintains its reputation for excellence in global markets. MCB also places significant emphasis on sustainable cocoa farming practices. It supports initiatives aimed at conserving biodiversity, preserving natural resources, and promoting environmentally friendly cultivation methods. Furthermore, MCB provides various forms of assistance and support to cocoa farmers which includes financial aid, infrastructure development, access to credit facilities, and crop insurance programs.

Source: Google photos