USM PENANG, 8 May 2025 – Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) continues to reinforce its commitment to sustainability through a landmark partnership with Envu Malaysia, aimed at transforming rodent management practices via science-based, eco-friendly solutions.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was officially signed today at the USM Chancellory Conference Room, symbolising the culmination of years of collaborative work between Envu and USM’s Barn Owl and Rodent Research Group (BORG), under the School of Biological Sciences.

The collaboration combines Envu’s expertise in professional pest management and environmental innovation with USM’s research excellence and field-tested approaches, particularly in the agriculture and urban sectors.

The MoU paves the way for the development of integrated rodent control methods, enhanced by real-world field applications.

USM Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dato’ Seri Ir. Dr. Abdul Rahman Mohamed welcomed the collaboration as part of the university’s larger vision of academic-industry engagement.

“This MoU is a reflection of the mutual trust we’ve built over nearly a decade. It aligns with our core mission of sustainability and our responsibility as an APEX university to promote Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) values through research, innovation, and community service,” he said.

Responding to a question regarding whether a capsule product will be innovated under the collaboration and the aspirations for the MoU, Abdul Rahman said: “This agreement represents an important step in strengthening collaborations with the industry, while prioritising the application of research in everyday life.”

“If innovations such as a ‘capsule’ can bring benefits to sustainable pest management, we are certainly open to exploring it together with Envu," he added.

In his address, Envu Malaysia and Export Countries Managing Director, Lee Teck Peng, shared that the collaboration stands as a model of purposeful innovation.

“What we are signing today is not merely a partnership – it is an affirmation of shared values, scientific integrity, and long-term commitment to environmental stewardship,” he said.

He also highlighted successful joint initiatives such as the use of Racumin® Wax Block, a first-generation rodenticide co-developed with USM, which has demonstrated encouraging results in both plantation and urban trials.

The MoU also outlines the development of co-branded educational materials, training programmes, and new research initiatives, underscoring both parties’ dedication to building long-term capabilities in sustainable pest management.

The Advisor and Co-Founder of BORG, Professor Emeritus Dr. Abu Hassan Ahmad, and the Coordinator of BORG, Dr. Hasber Salim, were also recognised for their leadership in advancing ecological pest control solutions that are both practical and community-oriented.

The event today was attended by delegates from Envu Asia-Pacific, senior USM researchers, and invited guests – signifying the shared vision in creating long-term impact through science, innovation, and strategic collaboration.

Founded in 2022, Envu (formerly Bayer Environmental Science) leverages years of environmental science experience to promote healthier environments for all.

It offers dedicated services in: Professional Pest Management, Forestry, Ornamentals, Golf, Industrial Vegetation Management, Lawn & Landscape, Mosquito Management, and Range & Pasture.

Text: Hema Vathi Kumaraguru, internship student, Media and Public Relations Centre (MPRC), USM/Editing: Tan Ewe Hoe