GEORGE TOWN, Sept 23 (Bernama) — Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) Centre for Drug Research (CDR) continues to drive the research agenda on ketum (Mitragyna speciosa), also known as kratom, by publishing over 150 scientific publications, making it one of the highest in the world.
Its director, Prof Dr M. Vikneswaran, said the research centre, established in 1978, was among the early pioneers of ketum studies in the country, with research starting around 2009 before expanding through a multidisciplinary approach that integrates pharmacology, toxicology, analytical chemistry, clinical sciences, health policy and social sciences.
He said that with its core expertise, highly committed research team, and international-standard laboratory facilities, the USM CDR consistently leads in generating scientific data that can make a significant contribution to the country.
Therefore, USM CDR is ready to open up collaboration opportunities with various parties, especially in empowering the relationship among academia, industry, and policymakers to reduce existing gaps.
“We hope more parties will be sensitive to the existence of USM CDR, which is always ready to be a reference and involved in any issue directly or indirectly related to ketum,” he said in a statement today.
Vikneswaran hopes that through local and international collaboration networks and research talent training, USM CDR will continue to strengthen Malaysia’s position as an international reference in ketum research.
He said the USM CDR is also recognised by various parties, including the Ministry of Higher Education (KPT), as a pioneer in ketum research in this region, in addition to receiving various local and international grants.
“In addition, the USM CDR, which is among the early pioneers in ketum research, is also capable of leading in quality standards, analytical methods, as well as safety and clinical guidelines,” he also said.
He added that Malaysia should be able to become a major player in ketum research, considering the country’s unique geographical location that is rich in biodiversity and the natural habitat of the plant.
Meanwhile, the statement said that the two-day Kratom Updates 2025 Conference, will be held next month (October), co-organised by USM in collaboration with Indonesia’s National Research and Innovation Agency and Thailand’s Prince of Songkla University. The conference will feature discussions on various topics, including the traditional use of ketum, its chemistry, neuroscience, pharmacology and related health issues.
The second Kratom Updates will bring together scientists from Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia to strengthen cooperation and share the latest research findings on ketum, with the participation of approximately 70 attendees.
— BERNAMA
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