THE Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM) has earned its 48th Malaysia Book of Records (MBR) title with the world’s first published genome sequence of a Dipterocarp species, Rubroshorea leprosula, also known locally as ‘meranti tembaga’.
The accolade, titled First to Publish the Genome Sequence of a Dipterocarp Species (Rubroshorea leprosula), was conferred during the MBR Night of Achievers 2025. The certificate was presented by Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching to FRIM’s deputy director-general (Research) Dr Norwati Muhammad.
Held once every decade, the prestigious event celebrates Malaysian individuals and institutions who have set outstanding records across diverse sectors.
FRIM said in a statement that the genomic study of Rubroshorea leprosula marks a “major milestone” in the advancement of tropical forestry research, with profound implications for biotechnology, genomics, and biodiversity conservation.
“The study is expected to significantly impact biodiversity research, genetic resource conservation and more sustainable forest management strategies,” the institute noted.
FRIM’s research team included Dr Kevin Ng Kit Seong, head of the Genetics Laboratory; Dr Lee Soon Leong, director of Forest Biotechnology; Dr R.K. Getha, head of the Biomolecular Research Lab; and orchid expert Ong Poh Teck, among others.
Speaking to Bernama, Kevin Ng emphasised the significance of the genome project: “We have the human genome and the oil palm genome. But we lacked genomic data for timber species. This effort by FRIM fills that gap.”
Ng added that the findings offer crucial insights into traits such as disease and climate resistance, which can be harnessed to enhance the quality and resilience of local timber.
“As timber remains a key national commodity, FRIM is committed to generating knowledge that enhances its quality and long-term value,” he said.
The achievement adds to FRIM’s extensive list of MBR accolades, which includes records for the Largest Ex-situ Collection of Isolated Actinobacteria, the First Malaysian Soil Scientist appointed to the FAO’s Intergovernmental Technical Panel of Soils, and the Longest Phalaenopsis cornu-cervi Orchid Flower Stalk. - July 12, 2025
