On Monday, June 3, 2024, Dr. Johari Abdul, Speaker of the Malaysian House of Representatives, visited the Japan International Research Center for Agricultural Sciences (JIRCAS) and exchanged views with senior officials, including President KOYAMA Osamu.

After watching a video overview of JIRCAS, the Malaysian delegation was briefed on social implementation efforts within the SATREPS project, "Sustainable Replantation of Oil Palm by Adding Value to Oil Palm Trunk through Scientific and Technological Innovation," where JIRCAS serves as the lead agency. JIRCAS also introduced the international collaborative research being carried out with the Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM) and the University of Malaya under the operational grant project "Evaluation of genetic resources for strengthening productivity and adaptability of tropical forests” (Adaptive Forestry), as well as the activities of the project "Accelerating application of agricultural technologies which enhance production potentials and ensure sustainable food systems in the Asia-Monsoon region" (Green Asia).

A member of the Malaysian House of Representatives asked about the supply situation and profitability of raw materials in relation to the commercial use of pellets made from oil palm trunks (OPT) as fuel and furniture material. Additionally, issues concerning rising production costs and an aging population affecting rice cultivation in Malaysia were also discussed, and a shift to other crops is being considered. Both sides also discussed strategies for sustainable water management and reducing the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides.

Before concluding the meeting, Speaker Johari expressed hopes that international collaborative research between Japan and Malaysia will continue.