Kuala lumpur: Nuclear technology plays a key role in boosting agricultural yields, including the development of new, more versatile kenaf crop varieties. Using gamma-ray-induced mutation breeding, the Malaysian Nuclear Agency (Nuklear Malaysia), in collaboration with the National Kenaf and Tobacco Board (LKTN), has developed a new kenaf variety that produces more fibre for industrial use and more leaves that can be processed into healthy herbal beverages.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Nuklear Malaysia director-general Dr Muhammad Rawi Mohamed Zin stated that the crop was improved through controlled exposure to gamma rays, which induces changes at the DNA level to produce a new variety that is more resilient and yields high-quality stems and leaves in larger quantities. Together with LKTN, they developed a new kenaf variety with improved traits, such as broader leaves for producing more herbal drinks and increased fibre content.
The same method has been applied to develop new rice seeds capable of growing on marginal soils and resistant to pests, diseases, and changing weather conditions. Dr Muhammad Rawi highlighted the success of the new NMR152 rice variety, cultivated by farmers since 2023, which has increased local farmers' incomes by boosting harvests by 35 to 50 per cent. Farmers prefer these seeds for their high yields and stability across various environments and soil types.
Dr Muhammad Rawi explained the complementary roles of Nuklear Malaysia and the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI) in strengthening the country's agricultural sector. Nuklear Malaysia conducts research and experiments to develop competitive crop varieties, while MARDI oversees and approves the market readiness of these results through the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.
Nuklear Malaysia and MARDI also collaborate with the Agriculture Department to develop nuclear-based crop treatment protocols, including fruit phytosanitation for export to countries with stringent safety standards, such as the United States and the European Union. This involves irradiating fruits with gamma rays to ensure they are free from harmful microorganisms and insects, thus making crops globally competitive.
Established in 1972, Nuklear Malaysia operates under the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation (MOSTI) as the country's sole national research institution responsible for nuclear science and technology research and development. It focuses on driving research, commercialisation, and innovation in nuclear technology for socio-economic development and public benefit.
In addition to agriculture, nuclear technology plays a crucial role in Malaysia's industry, particularly in the oil and gas sector, through the use of radioisotope tracers. These tracers measure the efficiency of refining operations and detect pipeline leaks, allowing for faster and safer identification.