PENANG, 7 October 2013 - Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) strengthened collaboration with its strategic partner from the industrial sector, Texchem Food Sdn. Bhd., particularly in developing the world's first breeding centre for commercial crabs.

USM Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dato’ Dr. Omar Osman said the breeding centre was created to allow the process of producing high quality crab roe capable of benefitting the aquaculture sector in the country.

He said the first phase of the research centre is located at USM Centre of Marine and Coastal Studies (CEMACS) and will focus on the installing of physical structures for the breeding of crabs.

“We will also examine the steps to extend the lifespan and production of crabs including the use of advanced nutrition and culture techniques,” he said at a press conference after signing a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) here recently.

He added that through the MoA, Texchem has also allocated funds amounting to RM100,000 in the form of annual research grants to cover the expenses of the entire project, costing RM300,000 per annum.

Texchem Group Executive Chairman, Tan Sri Dato’ Seri (Dr.) Fumihiko Konishi, was also present in the signing of the MoA.

Omar also said that the strategic alliance is also aimed to develop a study to evaluate the importance of biological information and understanding of crab physiological development, and at the same time develop human resource capacity in the field of aquaculture.

“Cooperation with Texchem first started in 2011 and until now it is growing very well and according to plan; more specifically, this collaboration was established with USM CEMACS,” he said.

In the meantime, Fumihiko said, Texchem put great faith in the USM researchers for the success of the collaboration, consistent with the ability of USM as a leading university in the country.

“In accordance with Texchem status as a manufacturer and importer of the world's largest nipah crabs, the cooperation is seen as an improvement that can further strengthen the production and the supply of marine life.

“The demand for crabs is growing every year and this collaboration is expected to meet the needs of both parties,” he said. - Translation: Yong Check Yoon/Photos: Mohd Fairus Md Isa