Hemp Science Center Launched at Malaysian University

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Dec 10

Written By Jean Lotus

Kimmi del Prado of Hemp Build Magazine as moderator with Dr. Piakong Mohd Tuah, Dr Sarani Zakaria and Mahalil Amin Abdul Malek from MIGHT (Malaysia Industry Government Group for High Technology). Photo courtesy of Kimmi Del Prado

Hemp Science Center Launched at Malaysian University

By Kimmi Del Prado

A November gathering of scientists and researchers meeting in Malaysia shows how opportunities from the hemp plant – both for medicinal and industrial uses such as building materials – is spreading through Asia and gathering momentum worldwide.

The Malaysia Hemptech Industrial Research Association (MHIRA), in collaboration with the University of Cyberjaya, hosted the 2nd Industrial Hemp Forum on November 22 at the university's Grand Hall. With the theme “Modern Hemp in Life Sciences,” the event was attended by policymakers, industry experts, researchers, students, and advocates, all eager to explore hemp’s potential for sustainability, innovation and applications.

Preceding this was the 1st forum held in November 2019 at the International Islamic University in Gombak Kuala Lumpur, also spearheaded by MHIRA. With the theme, “Insights into Hemp Industry,” the forum’s objective was to establish industrial hemp’s role in the “Sustainable Development Goals” of 2030. However, due to the pandemic, and global lockdowns, the follow-up forum was only made possible this year.

Hosting the forums at prestigious universities in an Islamic country highlights Malaysia’s progressive approach to tackling global challenges such as environmental restoration, sustainable development, and economic growth. These events underscore Malaysia’s commitment to incorporating innovation with cultural and ethical values, positioning the nation as a thought leader in industrial hemp advancements within the Islamic world and on the global stage.

This year’s forum marked a significant milestone with the launch of the Hemp Science Center (HSC), a pioneering facility dedicated to advancing industrial hemp research and applications. Positioned to align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) and ESG principles, the HSC will focus on innovations in natural fibers, advanced materials, and wellness while fostering sustainable farming practices. The center will also serve as a hub for collaboration among academia, industry, and policymakers. The university, together with MHIRA signed a Triple Helix Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to seal this agreement.

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*A Memorandum of Understanding was crafted between Malaysia Hemptech Industrial Research Association (MHIRA) and University of Cyberjaya in Kuala Lumpur. Photo courtesy of Kimmi Del Prado*

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A Journey of Advocacy and Collaboration

Hemp Build Magazine was on the front seat to witness this milestone. We talked to MHIRA’s founder and president, Johan Mohamad. He told us of the long journey leading to the day’s forum, building alliances across continents and championing hemp as a sustainable resource. The forum’s sessions reflected this collaborative spirit, taking off with an opening address by the Vice Chancellor of the University of Cyberjaya, who expressed optimism about the university’s role in advancing hemp research and application.

Highlights from the Forum

The seven sessions featured a range of expert presentations. Starting with Associate Professor Dr. Piakong Mohd Tuah, from the Hemp Science Center, he opened with “Modern Hemp in Life Sciences and HSC Initiatives.” He traced hemp’s history and highlighted its economic potential, urging stakeholders to adopt hemp as a sustainable alternative resource.

Professor Dr. Sarani Zakaria, a former Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia professor and HSC member, followed with her talk, “ESG: Natural Fibre Potential in the Advanced Materials Industry.” She focused on bast fibers, including hemp, emphasizing their environmental benefits and applications in advanced materials.

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*Professor Dr. Sarani Zakaria, former Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia professor and Hemp Science Center member. Photo courtesy of Kimmi Del Prado*

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The Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Cyberjaya, Prof. Sathappan Subramanian, presented on “Potential Benefits of Medical Cannabis,” while Bangkok-based Paul Iglesia of Global Hemp Service shared insights on “The Circular Economy Potential of Hemp.” Iglesia highlighted Malaysia's strong interest in hemp research.

“My role in the hemp industry is to be a catalyst for its quick development globally, especially in sustainability, profitability, and technology,” Iglesia told Hemp Build Magazine. “I foresee the whole Asian region adopting positive legislation to facilitate the development and exchange of hemp from farmland to consumers.”

A Platform for Discussion and Action

The forum also featured a panel discussion on “Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Potential in the Advanced Materials Industry,” moderated by one of the HSC’s regional directors, me. Aside from wearing my Hemp Build Magazine hat, I was also in attendance as the forum host and panel moderator. I took the opportunity to share the progress of hemp building in the US, particularly updates from the US Hemp Building Association on the inclusion of hemp materials in the 2024 International Residential Code (IRC). This was met with further enthusiasm across the hall.

Panellists, including Dr. Piakong Mohd Tuah, Dr. Sarani Zakaria, both fellow HSC members, and Mahalil Amin Abdul Malek from MIGHT (Malaysia Industry Government Group for High Technology), emphasized the need for partnerships, research, and funding to drive the industry forward.

*President and Founder of MHIRA Johan Mohamad speaks at the conference. Photo courtesy of Kimmi Del Prado*

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Dr. Zakaria reiterated hemp’s sustainability hemp, particularly its energy efficiency and ability to improve soil health and potential use of bast fiber. In closing, Malek encouraged forming alliances with universities and government bodies as key take-aways, while Dr. Tuah as his call to action, called on the younger generation to champion ethical and sustainable practices in the industry.

Looking Ahead

The forum concluded with MHIRA founder Johan Mohamad’s presentation on the “Potential of Hemp-Derived Products” and a closing message from Dr. Tuah. Reflecting on the partnership with the University of Cyberjaya, Johan told Hemp Build Magazine, “Cyberjaya University and other collaborative research institutions will strive for Malaysia to be the regional leader in industrial hemp.”

This forum and the launch of the Hemp Science Center mark a pivotal step in positioning Malaysia as a hub for innovation and sustainability in the global hemp industry.

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Reflection

2023 showed that hemp would make waves in 2024, and it certainly did. Its inclusion in the IRC 2024 was the biggest manifestation of all the hard work and dedication everyone put in to make it happen. With increasing discussions around sustainability and carbon emissions, hemp ticks all the boxes for a better and more sustainable construction industry.

As the year comes to a close, we can all agree that this year was another win for hemp. The cannabinoids have made their leap, and now it’s time for fiber and grain to catch up.