UCSI University Forms Strategic Partnership with Brazilian Company in Seaweed Research, Witnessed by President Lula
UCSI University has established a partnership with Bio Bureau Biotecnologia, a Brazilian biotechnology firm, aimed at advancing the global seaweed market, which is currently valued at $7.5 billion (RM31 billion). The formalization of this collaboration occurred through a memorandum of agreement signed during the recent Brazil-Malaysia Business Summit, which was attended by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Malaysian Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.
Agreement Details
The agreement requires both parties to engage in impactful seaweed research and develop advanced mass production techniques. The initiative aims to encourage the creation of downstream products, such as personal protective equipment (PPE) fabrics and bioplastics.
Potential and Growth
Chancellor of UCSI University, Tunku Zain Al-‘Abidin Tuanku Muhriz, highlighted the potential of this partnership, indicating that the global seaweed market is expected to grow to $18.1 billion (RM75 billion) by 2034. The seaweed industry in Malaysia is witnessing an annual growth rate exceeding 8%, with forecasts suggesting it could double by 2033.
Innovation and Sustainability
The collaboration is focused not only on seaweed cultivation but also on driving innovation, sustainability, and shared prosperity. The venture aims to leverage technological advancements, including genetic improvements, automated cultivation processes, applications of nanotechnology, and bioreactor-based production systems. These innovations are anticipated to enable the cultivation of productive, disease-resistant super strains and facilitate precision farming on a larger scale.
Commercialization Opportunities
Commercialization opportunities identified within the partnership encompass the development of biostimulants, nutraceuticals, plant-based animal feed, and biosynthetic textiles. The Business Summit also featured the participation of prominent figures such as UCSI University Council Chairman Dato’ Peter Ng, UCSI International Institute of Science Diplomacy and Innovation Director Distinguished Prof. Tan Sri Dr. Zakri Abdul Hamid, and UCSI Deputy Vice-Chancellor Distinguished Prof. Dr. Phang Siew Moi.
(Source: UCSI University)
