BIOMALAYSIA2011- A PERSONAL VIEW

It’s that time of the year again, when Malaysia showcases its ‘achievements’ in biotechnology. And it seems that this year event is no better than the previous similar events. A lot of hypes, great booths, smart name tags and a lot of hot air. It lacks the presence of renowned international biotechnology experts but overflow with relatively unknown speakers who seem to be keener in ‘advertising’ or ‘marketing’ their companies or products
On the local scene, the speakers or chair persons are more known as heads of departments rather than respected authorities in their own field in biotechnology. I don’t know whether this is more public relation exercise in buttering up certain departments or ministries in the government or its acceptance of the invitation to improve their CV
I have found the titles of the paper presented generally as ‘feel good ‘ papers laced with promises, potentials and not discussing problems and barriers that will be barriers to the commercialization.
It is interesting in this note that Kevin Keebung Rhee in his paper “From Bio Facility to Production” brought out the problems that will be faced in realizing these biotechnological dreams or endeavours
In such important gatherings it is important that the credibility be established from presentations of serious scientific discoveries rather than repacking old wine in new bottles or giving stories from La La Land


Type rest of the post here.