Bandar Seri Begawan - Food security is one of the Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources' (MIPR) most important clusters and strategic initiatives, and this has led towards the setting of targets to achieve a respectable self-sufficiency level in the production of agricultural commodities and agrifood production through the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood due to the sharp rise in food prices in 2007 until 2008 and again in 2011.

This was highlighted by Dayang Hajah Hasnah bind Ibrahim, the Deputy Permanent Secretary (Primary Resources Development) at the Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources, who officiated the 'Workshop on Application of Agri-Biotechnology in Brunei Darussalam' during the opening ceremony held yesterday at the Rizqun International Hotel, Gadong.

Also in attendance were Hjh Aidah binti Hj Mohd Hanifah, the Acting Director of Agriculture and Agrifood, as well as senior officers, officers and staff of' the department.

Dr Peter Fennessy from DuaoDua Agriculture and Abacusbio, New Zealand will coordinate the workshop, which among others, aims to introduce biotechnology and aspects of agriculture biotechnology which are relevant in Brunei.

During the workshop, the participants will also be involved in practical project assessment, project challenges, as well as observe a presentation on basic outline of an investment case.

"Success comes from innovation, integration, quality and integrity of all systems where people can trust their brand," stated Dr Peter Fennessy during his welcoming speech.

He added that there is a very wide range of biotechnology that can be utilised in the food production system which will be looked at in broad view during the workshop and all the discussions in order to develop the most appropriate and practical application of biotechnology in Brunei.

Dr Fennessy also stated that it is important for both researchers and the business community to work together to give value to the whole chain; from the farmers to the processors.

The three-day workshop held from October 16-18, is participated by officers and staff from various departments and divisions under the Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources as well as the Attorney General's Chambers.

The workshop includes theory, interactive group activities and project challenges to provide a broad overview of biotechnology with a specific focus on potential practical applications of biotechnology in agriculture within Brunei, and is hoped to enhance knowledge and awareness of biotechnology and the opportunities for applications of agricultural biotechnology.

The participants will acquire experience in developing an early-stage business case for investment in a biotechnology R&D project.

The basic outline of an investment case will be discussed, which includes a recommendation as to whether or not the case should be further developed. The presentation may provide the starting point to discuss the project within the department, as well. as with some potential commercial partners.

At the end of the workshop, the participants will engage in a discussion to find out what the nation can do next with agricultural biotechnology in Brunei.

--Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin