The Conference on Modern
Biotechnology was organized with an aim to disseminate clear and accurate
information and increase awareness among stakeholders on modern biotechnology.
The legislative and regulatory framework which is the 7th thrust of
the National Biotechnology Policy is a key factor that would determine
the direction and development of biotechnology in the country. Thus,
the conference focused on the importance of developing science-based
biosafety regulations that would not impede research, development,
and commercialization.
Prominent speakers from
the United Kingdom, USA, Singapore, and Netherlands joined local speakers
to discuss various topics related to modern biotechnology. Speakers
came from diverse backgrounds - scientists from both public and private
organizations, regulators, policy makers, academia, industry, venture
capitals, and Islamic organization. The wide expertise of the speakers
provided the audience with a complete and balanced view of modern
biotechnology and its positive impact to development of a country.
The conference discussed
various topics – the potential of modern biotechnology, misconceptions
about GMOs, Islamic perspective on biotechnology, scientific risk
assessment, status of GM acceptance in Europe, regulatory framework
in Singapore, the cost of implementing biosafety regulations, the
Malaysian biosafety framework, impact of stringent biosafety regulations
to the industry and availability of risk capital.
Speakers emphasized the
need for science-based regulations as opposed to precautionary approach.
Labeling and its impact to trade and industry were also extensively
discussed. Speakers from Burrill & Company which manages the Malaysia
Life Sciences Capital and Fund stressed the need for a robust and
flexible biosafety regulations which will create a conducive environment
for investors to start business ventures in Malaysia. The safety of
GM crops to human and animal heath, as well as to the environment
was reiterated by almost all speakers by producing well researched
facts and data. Myths and misconceptions that are frequently brought
up and used against GM technology were also factually dismissed.
The audience was made up
of policy makers, scientists, academia, industries, regulators, NGOs,
and students. More than 200 participants who attended the conference
spent the two days attentively listening to the speakers.
The conference was organized
by the Malaysian Biotechnology Corporation (BiotechCorp) and MABIC
with the support of Academy of Sciences Malaysia and Malaysian Bio
Industry Organization (MBIO)
Mabic Events 
