USM PENANG, 25 August 2025 – The second edition of Kratom Updates 2025, a regional scientific meeting dedicated to kratom research, is scheduled to take place in Bali, Indonesia, from 9–10 October 2025.

The inaugural Kratom Updates was organised by the Centre for Drug Research (CDR), Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) in 2024.

This two-day event will bring together approximately 70 participants, including prominent kratom researchers, postgraduate students, and industry stakeholders from across Southeast Asia.

The goal is to share the latest research findings on kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) and to strengthen research collaborations among consortium members from Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia.

The meeting will feature presentations on a broad range of scientific topics, including:

• Traditional uses of kratom
• Chemistry and pharmacology
• Neuroscience
• Health implications of kratom consumption.

To further reinforce USM’s leadership in kratom research, the first Kratom Updates held at USM was officiated by the USM Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation, Professor Dr. Habibah A Wahab.

The event was a collaborative effort between Badan Riset dan Inovasi Nasional (BRIN) of Indonesia, Prince of Songkla University of Thailand, and CDR USM.

A key highlight of the inaugural meeting was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) among the three institutions, formalising their commitment to advancing kratom science.

The consortium aims to serve as a regional referral point for kratom research, enabling policymakers to engage with scientists to develop informed policies that promote scientific understanding while safeguarding traditional practices.

Financial support for the event has been provided by kratom industry players from the United States, Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia, reflecting growing international interest in the plant’s potential.

The first announcement for the Kratom Updates 2025 has been made recently.

Those who are interested to participate in the annual scientific meeting can email directly to the secretariat to reserve their seats.

Established in 1978, CDR is recognised as the leading research centre on kratom in Malaysia and Southeast Asia.

Text: Centre for Drug Research (CDR), USM/Editing: Tan Ewe Hoe