Curtin Aquaculture Research Laboratories heralds new era for Sarawak’s aquaculture industry

Miri, Sarawak – 11 July 2024 – The recent official opening of the Curtin Aquaculture Research Laboratories (CARL) at Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) marked a significant milestone in advancing Sarawak’s aquaculture industry, said Sarawak Food Industry, Commodities and Regional Development Minister Dato Sri Dr. Stephen Rundi Utom.

Dr. Rundi highlighted the sector’s rapid growth and its crucial role in enhancing food security and economic prosperity. “As global demand for seafood and aquatic products soars, harnessing the latest scientific and technological innovations is imperative to ensure sustainable and efficient production,” he stated.

The minister’s text of speech was read by his deputy Datuk Dr. Abdul Rahman Ismail who represented him at CARL’s opening, which coincided with Curtin Malaysia’s 25th Anniversary celebration attended by numerous guests from Malaysia and overseas.

Dr. Rundi emphasised CARL’s pivotal role in advancing research on sustainable fish farming practices, disease management, genetic improvement, and environmental impact assessment. “The research at these laboratories will not only boost the productivity and sustainability of our aquaculture industry but also provide invaluable insights into conserving our marine and freshwater resources,” he said.

CARL is set to become a collaborative hub where academia, industry, and government can exchange knowledge and best practices. “This collaborative approach is crucial for translating scientific research into practical solutions,” Dr. Rundi added.

The advancements and breakthroughs achieved at CARL, he continued, would enhance the efficiency and sustainability of aquaculture practices, leading to increased production, job creation and economic growth. “By promoting sustainable practices, we ensure that our aquaculture industry can thrive without compromising the health of our ecosystems, thus securing long-term benefits for the people of Sarawak,” he pointed out.

Meanwhile, Curtin University Vice-Chancellor Professor Harlene Hayne, who also spoke at the ceremony, underscored the significance of relocating CARL from Perth to Miri, positioning Curtin Malaysia as a regional leader in aquaculture research. “CARL will address real-world challenges and drive innovation in aquaculture, fostering joint research initiatives and academic collaborations essential for Malaysia’s future development,” she remarked.

The facility will support cutting-edge research in aquaculture technology, water quality, fish disease management, and fish nutrition. It will also serve as a hub for knowledge exchange, promoting sustainable practices that enhance the aquaculture industry and bolster Malaysia’s food security efforts.

Present at the event were Sarawak Transport Minister and chair of Curtin Malaysia’s Management Committee Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin; Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Datuk Sebastian Ting; Western Australia Investment and Trade Commissioner for ASEAN Bryce Green; Curtin University Deputy Vice-Chancellor Global Professor Xiaotian Zhang; and members of Curtin Malaysia’s Council and Board of Directors. Also present were Curtin Malaysia Pro Vice-Chancellor, President and Chief Executive Professor Simon Leunig, CARL Director Professor Ravi Kumar Fotedar, and representatives from the Australian high commissions in Malaysia and Brunei, Australian Trade and Investment Commission, and Western Australian Trade Office.

With the inauguration of CARL, Curtin Malaysia is poised to lead the way in sustainable aquaculture, driving economic growth and fostering a thriving, resilient aquaculture sector in Sarawak.

Information on Curtin Malaysia can be found on its website at curtin.edu.my, or look for Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, and TikTok.

Guests at the official opening of CARL

Dr Abdul Rahman delivering the minister’s speech

Dr Abdul Rahman and others giving the thumbs up following signing of opening plaque by the deputy minister

Dr Abdul Rahman (4th left) joins Ting, Green and Hayne (1st to 3rd right) in releasing fish into a tank at CARL