Latest news with #ForestResearchInstituteMalaysia
New Straits Times
12 hours ago
- Business
- New Straits Times
Malaysia's timber exports may gain edge due to higher US tariffs on competitors
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's timber exports may gain a competitive edge in the American market due to higher tariffs imposed on regional rivals such as Vietnam and Indonesia. Vietnam, once a leading furniture exporter in the region, now faces tariffs as high as 46 per cent compared with Malaysia's import levy of 24 per cent, Director of Forest Products Division, Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM) Wan Tarmeze Wan Ariffin said. "US President Donald Trump imposed higher tariffs on Vietnam probably because they're afraid China might use Vietnam as a manufacturing hub" to bypass American trade restrictions," he told Bernama. The US is the largest buyer of Malaysian furniture, accounting for over half of furniture exports. However, the tariffs announced on April 2 have been paused for 90 days till early July to allow America's trading partners to negotiate for lower tariffs. "If they don't impose high tariffs on Vietnam, China could exploit that route. So, on paper, the advantage actually lies with us (Malaysia)," he said. In 2022, Malaysia exported timber and timber products worth RM7.73 billion to the US. This was a steady increase from RM3.76 billion in 2018. Malaysia's timber exports worldwide include furniture, logs, veneer, plywood and medium-density fibreboard. Asked on the challenges faced by the timber industry, Wan Tarmeze said Malaysia's furniture sector primarily relies on processed wood rather than solid timber, with wood-based materials accounting for up to 85 per cent of inputs in the making of the furniture. Geopolitical tensions may create opportunities He said the ongoing Iran-Israel military conflict was not expected to have a direct impact on Malaysia's timber exports. Nevertheless, post-conflict reconstruction could open up new market opportunities and raise demand for Malaysian timber. "Wars often lead to widespread destruction, but once the situation stabilises, there's usually a surge in demand for rebuilding – including homes and infrastructure," he said. Calls for shift from OEM to OBM in timber exports When asked how Malaysia can position itself as a high-value timber exporter rather than a volume-based player, he said the shift ultimately depends on the industry players themselves. "This has been a long-standing conversation as Malaysia is still heavily reliant on the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) model, manufacturing timber products for others without having its own strong, internationally recognised brands. "Take IKEA for example, which is a Swedish brand while Italy has its own well-known brand names, but Malaysia has yet to produce a brand that stands out globally," he said. OEM refers to manufacturing products for other brands, whereas original brand manufacturers (OBM) involves developing and marketing products under one's own brand name. Wan Tarmeze said that despite the government's repeated calls for the industry to move from being OEMs to OBMs, the shift has yet to happen. "The issue is not about identity but branding, and without branding we can't build value. "The truth is Malaysia tends to shy away from copying, but we should be more open to learning from others, even "stealing" ideas in the sense of adapting best practices and making them our own," he said.
The Star
2 days ago
- Business
- The Star
Forest research institute upgrade to boost ecotourism appeal
(From right) Ismail with Joyce and other guests at the suspension bridge in FRIM that has been reconstructed with additional safety features and durable hardwood. THE infrastructure upgrade at the Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM) in Kepong, Selangor, is expected to enhance its ecotourism appeal ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026). FRIM director-general Datuk Dr Ismail Parlan said the project included reconstructing a 12m suspension bridge using durable hardwood and support cables with safety 'u-clip' netting, as well as installing an informational map panel in the Borneo Plot near the Sungai Kroh picnic area. He said the initiative was carried out in collaboration with the government and corporate partners, including Hibiscus Petroleum Bhd which contributed RM96,000 through its corporate social responsibility programme to enhance FRIM's ecotourism facilities. 'This effort extends beyond just infrastructure enhancement. 'It demonstrates a strong corporate commitment to long-term environmental and biodiversity conservation,' he told reporters after visiting the site, according to Bernama. Present were Hibiscus Petroleum Bhd corporate finance head Joyce Vasudevan and corporate development vice-president Lily Ling. Ismail said the Borneo Plot was one of FRIM's unique attractions, which featured forest species native to Borneo and renowned for its tropical biodiversity, including kapur baji (Dryobalanops lanceolata) and engkabang (Rubroshorea macrophylla). Ismail (right) briefing Ling (left) on the tree species at the Borneo Plot. Established as a research site, the Borneo Plot also serves as an outdoor learning space for students and visitors, as well as a conservation area for endangered species. He said FRIM has evolved from being a research and innovation centre into a hub for nature-based tourism and environmental education, drawing both local and international visitors. As such, he said FRIM would work closely with Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry to make early preparations for VM2026. 'Last year, we recorded 157,699 visitors. 'This year, we are targeting 200,000 – not only to enjoy the natural surroundings but also to raise public awareness about the importance of forests and biodiversity,' said Ismail. FRIM, declared a National Heritage site in 2015, is currently in the final stage of nomination as a Unesco World Heritage Site.
Barnama
3 days ago
- Business
- Barnama
FRIM Enhances Efforts To Commercialise Forest Resource-based Research Innovations
KUALA LUMPUR, June 17 (Bernama) -- The Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM) continues to strengthen its role in the development of forest resource-based technology and innovation through the comprehensive execution of research, development, commercialisation, and application (RDCA) activities. FRIM said the initiative represents a strategic effort by the institute to support Malaysia's aspiration of becoming a high-tech nation by the year 2030. 'In line with the Forestry Research Institute Malaysia Act 2016 and the National Research, Development, Innovation, Commercialisation and Economic (RDICE) Roadmap, FRIM plays a key role within the national innovation ecosystem by fostering collaboration between the research sector, industry, and government. 'This effort is guided by the National Science, Technology and Innovation Policy (NSTIP) 2021-2030, which aims to achieve research and innovation investments totaling RM85.7 billion,' FRIM said in a statement. It added that it plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between research laboratories and the market by actively participating in national initiatives such as Malaysia Commercialisation Year and working closely with the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI). According to FRIM, several approaches have been implemented to drive innovation, including the provision of technology packages, product certification, technical advisory services, and incubation activities through its Innovation and Commercialisation Division. 'FRIM's intellectual property is managed through the Technology Information Management System (TIMS), ensuring that innovation outputs are well-protected and ready for commercialisation. These efforts are further supported by its wholly owned subsidiary, FRIM Incorporated Sdn Bhd, which plays a pivotal role in facilitating technology licensing and translating research outcomes to meet market demands,' it said. 'Among FRIM's key achievements is the successful commercialisation of clones and extracts from local herbs such as Kacip Fatimah (Labisia pumila) and Cucur Atap (Baeckea frutescens) which are now incorporated into natural wellness products with strong potential to enter international markets. The institute also provides consultancy and technology transfer services to both government agencies and the private sector. These services encompass a wide range of areas, including biomass product development, plantation silviculture, eco-friendly product certification, and biodiversity mapping.
The Sun
3 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
FRIM enhances efforts to commercialise forest resource-based research innovations
KUALA LUMPUR: The Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM) continues to strengthen its role in the development of forest resource-based technology and innovation through the comprehensive execution of research, development, commercialisation, and application (RDCA) activities. FRIM said the initiative represents a strategic effort by the institute to support Malaysia's aspiration of becoming a high-tech nation by the year 2030. 'In line with the Forestry Research Institute Malaysia Act 2016 and the National Research, Development, Innovation, Commercialisation and Economic (RDICE) Roadmap, FRIM plays a key role within the national innovation ecosystem by fostering collaboration between the research sector, industry, and government. 'This effort is guided by the National Science, Technology and Innovation Policy (NSTIP) 2021-2030, which aims to achieve research and innovation investments totaling RM85.7 billion,' FRIM said in a statement. It added that it plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between research laboratories and the market by actively participating in national initiatives such as Malaysia Commercialisation Year and working closely with the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI). According to FRIM, several approaches have been implemented to drive innovation, including the provision of technology packages, product certification, technical advisory services, and incubation activities through its Innovation and Commercialisation Division. 'FRIM's intellectual property is managed through the Technology Information Management System (TIMS), ensuring that innovation outputs are well-protected and ready for commercialisation. These efforts are further supported by its wholly owned subsidiary, FRIM Incorporated Sdn Bhd, which plays a pivotal role in facilitating technology licensing and translating research outcomes to meet market demands,' it said. 'Among FRIM's key achievements is the successful commercialisation of clones and extracts from local herbs such as Kacip Fatimah (Labisia pumila) and Cucur Atap (Baeckea frutescens) which are now incorporated into natural wellness products with strong potential to enter international markets. The institute also provides consultancy and technology transfer services to both government agencies and the private sector. These services encompass a wide range of areas, including biomass product development, plantation silviculture, eco-friendly product certification, and biodiversity mapping. In addition, FRIM offers expertise in the development of nature trails and ecotourism projects, contributing to efforts in environmental sustainability. 'Through strategic collaborations with various local and international organisations, FRIM is also actively involved in implementing greening initiatives aimed at preserving biodiversity and raising public awareness on the importance of reforestation,' it added. FRIM stressed that the success in creating both commercial and social value from research outcomes underscores how forest resource-based scientific innovation can significantly contribute to national economic development. In line with this, FRIM remains committed to leading the development of an inclusive, innovative, and sustainable forest-based industry for the benefit of the nation.
The Sun
3 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
FRIM enhances efforts to commercialise forest resource-based research
KUALA LUMPUR: The Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM) continues to strengthen its role in the development of forest resource-based technology and innovation through the comprehensive execution of research, development, commercialisation, and application (RDCA) activities. FRIM said the initiative represents a strategic effort by the institute to support Malaysia's aspiration of becoming a high-tech nation by the year 2030. 'In line with the Forestry Research Institute Malaysia Act 2016 and the National Research, Development, Innovation, Commercialisation and Economic (RDICE) Roadmap, FRIM plays a key role within the national innovation ecosystem by fostering collaboration between the research sector, industry, and government. 'This effort is guided by the National Science, Technology and Innovation Policy (NSTIP) 2021-2030, which aims to achieve research and innovation investments totaling RM85.7 billion,' FRIM said in a statement. It added that it plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between research laboratories and the market by actively participating in national initiatives such as Malaysia Commercialisation Year and working closely with the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI). According to FRIM, several approaches have been implemented to drive innovation, including the provision of technology packages, product certification, technical advisory services, and incubation activities through its Innovation and Commercialisation Division. 'FRIM's intellectual property is managed through the Technology Information Management System (TIMS), ensuring that innovation outputs are well-protected and ready for commercialisation. These efforts are further supported by its wholly owned subsidiary, FRIM Incorporated Sdn Bhd, which plays a pivotal role in facilitating technology licensing and translating research outcomes to meet market demands,' it said. 'Among FRIM's key achievements is the successful commercialisation of clones and extracts from local herbs such as Kacip Fatimah (Labisia pumila) and Cucur Atap (Baeckea frutescens) which are now incorporated into natural wellness products with strong potential to enter international markets. The institute also provides consultancy and technology transfer services to both government agencies and the private sector. These services encompass a wide range of areas, including biomass product development, plantation silviculture, eco-friendly product certification, and biodiversity mapping. In addition, FRIM offers expertise in the development of nature trails and ecotourism projects, contributing to efforts in environmental sustainability. 'Through strategic collaborations with various local and international organisations, FRIM is also actively involved in implementing greening initiatives aimed at preserving biodiversity and raising public awareness on the importance of reforestation,' it added. FRIM stressed that the success in creating both commercial and social value from research outcomes underscores how forest resource-based scientific innovation can significantly contribute to national economic development. In line with this, FRIM remains committed to leading the development of an inclusive, innovative, and sustainable forest-based industry for the benefit of the nation.
