CV Dr Mahaletchumy Arujanan

Dr Mahaletchumy Arujanan, PhD
Executive Director
Malaysian Biotechnology Information Centre
(MABIC)

1. Personal Details:
Name: Mahaletchumy Arujanan
Current Position:
1. Executive Director (since 2005) Malaysian Biotechnology
Information Centre (MABIC)
2. Editor-in-Chief for The Petri Dish
3. Adjunct Lecturer (Monash University Sunway Campus)
4. Adjunct Lecturer (AIMST University)
Office Address: Malaysian Biotechnology Information Centre (MABIC)
4-8-27 Monash University Malaysia
Jalan Lagoon Selatan
Bandar Sunway 46150 Petaling Jaya
Selangor, Malaysia
Nationality: Malaysian
Contact Details: Tel: 603-551 46174 Fax: 603-551 46184
Email: maha@bic.org.my
Previous Positions: 1. Program Manager (MABIC): May 2004 - April 2005
2. Program Officer (MABIC): Jan 2003 - April 2004
3. Product Manager (DXN Marketing/Total Health Concept): Oct
1999 – Dec 2002
4. Programme Assistant (International Plant Genetic Resources
Institute, IPGRI): Jan 1997 – Sept 1999
Education: 1. PhD (Science Communication), University of Malaya (2013)
2. Masters of Biotechnology. University of Malaya (1997)
3. B.Sc (Hon). Major: Microbiology. Universiti Putra Malaysia
(1993)
Short courses:
1. Commonwealth Study Conference for Leaders (UK, 15 – 23
Feb, 2013 & Johannesburg, 10-13 June 2013)
2. Agricultural Biotechnology Short Course, Michigan State
University, USA. (9-21 Sept 2007)
3. Global Entrepreneurship training, California Institute for Quantitative
Biosciences, San Francisco, USA (16-20 Jan 2012)

Awards and Honours:
1. 100 Most Influential People in Biotechnology in the World by
Scientific American Worldview, 2015
2. Honorific List of Women in Biotechnology Law and
Regulation, Biotechnology Law Report. 2015. Vol. 34 (3).
Mary Ann Liebert Inc, USA
3. Nominee of Great Women of Our Time (S&T), Malaysian
Women’s Weekly (Dec 2015)
4. TWAS Regional Prize 2010 for Public Understanding of
Science for Southeast Asia, East Asia and the Pacific region.
2. Expertise
i) Science communication: Pioneered science communication in Malaysia.
Communicating new technologies to varied stakeholders employing
various communication strategies and approaches. Risk communication
and addressing extremely sensitive audience and topics
ii) Biotechnology, biotechnology policies, biosafety regulations
iii) Sales and Marketing: Established the first science newspaper, The Petri
Dish in Malaysia and sustaining its growth since Feb 2011 through
vigorous and creative marketing with limited resources. Experiences in
marketing health supplements and managed a series of products.
iv) Fund raising and generating revenue: Successfully transformed MABIC
into a self-sustaining not-for-profit organization with activities that
generate revenue and through collaboration with national and international
agencies
v) Managerial and administrative roles: Operate MABIC as a lean yet
effective centre to communicate biotechnology. Rebranded it as a single
most important not-for-profit organization that is science-based and a
strong partner to the government, industry and universities
3. Summary of Job Description:
The principal duties and responsibilities of Executive Director of MABIC is to establish
MABIC as the premier in-country information source and a platform to address issues on
biotechnology such as regulations, bioeconomy, funding, biotechnology education,
bioethics and increase public understanding of biotechnology to would lead to biobased
commercial activities.
Specifically, the Executive Director carries out the following:
 Play a key role in addressing issues related to biotechnology development such as
regulations, policies, public awareness, communication, education, ethics,
commercialisation, funding, trade, and human capital development.

 Initiate programmes and activities for various stakeholders to facilitate
biotechnology development. This includes outreach programmes that enhance
public awareness on biotechnology e.g. workshops and seminars for the media,
researchers, scientists, regulators, students, religious authorities, policy makers,
politicians, farmers, industries, general public, and any other parties with an
interest in biotechnology;
 Provide input to the government on policies and regulations, and direction of
biotechnology/bioeconomy development in the country;
 Provide input for Minister’s speeches when requested on matters related to
biotechnology, agriculture biotechnology, ethics, bioeconomy and science
communuication;
 publish The Petri Dish, the first science newspaper with a focus on biotech in the
region; provide direction and leadership to ensure the quality and sustainability of
this newspaper;
 Support government agenda in promoting the development of biotechnology
sector in Malaysia through MABIC activities in areas such as policies, regulation
human capital development and biotech communication;
 Build a strong network among biotechnology stakeholders in Malaysia;
 Lead MABIC as a recognized information portal for biotechnology in Malaysia
and internationally;
 Initiate fund raising activities or plans to enable MABIC to partially support its
activities;
 Serve as committee member to provide advice, direction, recommendation on
issues related to biotechnology education, bioethics, policies, and bioeconomy;
 Work closely with MABIC’s affiliates and sister organisations around the world
to carry out regional and international activities;
 Publish materials, papers and articles that can help to achieve MABIC's objectives;
 Oversee the maintenance of MABIC website to maximise its effectiveness as an
information source;

 Explore use of alternative media and social network to reach to a wider audience;
 Provide leadership and vision for MABIC;
 Represent MABIC as a resource person and take up speaking engagement.
About MABIC:
The Malaysian Biotechnology Information Centre (MABIC) is a registered not-for-profit
organization with an NGO status in Malaysia. MABIC is the first and only NGO that
promotes biotechnology in Malaysia and enjoys excellent working relationship with
ministries, government agencies, research institutes, universities, trade organizations,
embassies and high commissions, media, industry and farmer organizations. MABIC’s
objectives are to create public understanding of biotechnology in the areas of regulations,
policies, human capital development, commercialisation and ethics, and creating a
platform for various stakeholders to discuss issues and challenges related to
biotechnology development. MABIC also provides direction, advice, and
recommendation to the government, universities and other stakeholders in the areas of
biotechnology, bioeconomy, science communication and biotechnology education.
MABIC has remained as one of the key organizations in creating public awareness and
addressing key issues in biotechnology to Malaysian stakeholders. MABIC is seen as a
strategic partner to most government agencies as its activities and initiatives translates
into biotechnology acceptance among the stakeholders and in the development of
enabling policies and regulations for the industry that promotes bioeconomy activities.
MABIC is part of the Biotechnology Information Centers, an international network of 28
countries under the Global Knowledge Center of ISAAA. Its parent institute is
International Service for the Acquisition of Agribiotech Applications (ISAAA).
For more information on MABIC, please visit: www.bic.org.my
www.malaysia4biotech.blogspot.com https://www.facebook.com/pages/Malaysian-
Biotechnology-Information-Centre-MABIC/189517214418766
4. Professional Accomplishments
Beyond Job Description
Mahaletchumy’s accomplishment goes beyond her job description in creating Public
Understanding of Science, particularly in biotechnology. The core area covered by
ISAAA and all the other BICs is only agribiotech, but Mahaletchumy emphasized on all
areas of biotechnology to support the agenda of Malaysian government and to ensure
biotechnology becomes a strong economy generator for the country.

Mahaletchumy is the founder of the first science newspaper in Malaysia, The Petri Dish,
which is dedicated to creating awareness among the public on biotechnology and to
bridge the communication gap between scientists and the society. The Petri Dish is a
monthly publication, circulated to scientists, politicians, policy makers, industry,
students, hospitals and general public. It also plays a key role in promoting STEM
education and careers.
Mahaletchumy initiated a series of ulama-scientists dialogues at the international level
on GM crops/foods that have resulted in a resolution that is being used as a reference in
Islamic countries.
Mahaletchumy is a pioneer in attempting non-traditional approaches in communicating
biotechnology. She merged fashion and biotechnology by organizing Fashion Shows and
Fashion Design Competitions, inspired by biotech motifs. Through this initiative, UiTM
fashion students have become biotech-literate as the fashion school has introduced
biotech as one of their projects. This has opened up various avenues to communicate
biotechnology through non-traditional approaches such as public speaking, biotech
debates, quiz, spelling, poster drawing and essay writing competions.
Mahaletchumy sits on various committees (see Professional Activities) to ensure Public
Understanding of Science is given a priority at various levels.
Mahaletchumy has also succeeded in developing network and collaboration outside
Malaysia in an attempt to facilitate sharing of experiences.
Mahaletchumy managed to bring new ideas about science communication to major
players in these areas such as the MOE, research institutes and universities where the
collaboration with MABIC has led these institutes to venture into science communication
as part of their regular activities.
Mahaletchumy is also instrumental in establishing Biotechnology Information Centres
(BICs) in other OIC countries like Iran and Uganda. She is a role model for existing BICs
in Pakistan, Egypt, Bangladesh, and Indonesia.
Innovative programmes
Mahaletchumy has initiated many first-of-its kind Public Understanding of Science
activities in Malaysia:
1. Centre for Science Communication and Engagement (CSCommE), hosted by
Quest University
2. The Petri Dish - the first science newspaper in Malaysia
3. Initiated a number of dialogues and workshops to discuss the convergence of
Shariah principles and GM technology, and biotechnology communication in
Islamic world.

4. Biotechnology Carnival – fashion show, school competitions such as debates,
biotech quiz, and biotech spelling.
5. Hands-on biotechnology workshop for members of the media
6. Hands-on biotechnology workshop for teachers
7. Dialogue between scientists and Islamic scholars (Ulama) on modern
biotechnology
8. Creating awareness and enhance interest on biotechnology through fun-filled
activities such as colouring, poster drawing, writing, debates, and fashion designs.
9. Assisted Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment on creating awareness
on biosafety and LMOs under the UNDP-GEF project.
Creating science communicators
Through her partnership programmes with research institutes and universities,
Mahaletchumy was able to create science communicators among the scientists. Upon
organizing events with MABIC, several organizations have made science communication
part of their routine activities. Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine
(INFORMM) at Universiti Sains Malaysia, Department of Biological Sciences at
Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Department of Molecular Biology at Universiti
Malaysia Sarawak, and Centre for Curriculum Development at Ministry of Education are
some examples.
Collaborators
Mahaletchumy has successfully involved more than 50 organizations, both local and
international in communicating biotechnology and made them understand the importance
of communicating to non-scientists audience. She has collaborated with:
1. Public universities
2. Private universities
3. Ministries
4. Research institutes
5. Government agencies
6. State governments
7. Industry
8. International organizations
9. Embassies and High Commissions
10. NGOs
11. Media
Sharing experience and learning from other countries
Mahaletchumy also works closely with international agencies in communicating
biotechnology at the international level. This facilitates sharing of experience and
learning from the experience of other countries.

1. Australia Malaysia Institute (AMI)
2. US Department of Agriculture (USDA)
3. US Department of State
4. Australian Department of Innovation, Industry, Science and Research
5. Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ISESCO)
6. Organization for Islamic Conference Standing Committee for Science and
Technology (COMSTECH)
7. Public Research and Regulation Initiative (PRRI)
8. BIO US
9. International Service for the Acquisition of Agribiotech Applications (ISAAA)
10. United Nation Development Program – Global Environment Facility (UNDP-
GEF)
11. Biotechnology Information Centres (BICs) in 28 countries around the globe, of
which six from OIC countries
5. Publications
A. The Petri Dish
The Petri Dish is a science newspaper with a focus on life-science which is
Mahaletchumy’s brainchild. She initiated this newspaper to ensure biotechnology
news reaches the public and with an aim to brigde the biotechnology fraternity to
the society. This is another initiative from her part to create a biotechnology-
literate society. The Petri Dish is being circulated to universities, schools,
ministries, government agencies, research institutes, industry, bookstores, petrol
kiosks, doctors’ offices, hospitals and other public places.
B. Articles, journals papers, report, proceedings and chapters
1. Arujanan, M. (2017). Legal, Regulatory and Labelling Status of Biotech Crops.
Advances in Botanical Research (in press)
2. Arujanan, M. (2017). Biotechnology and Bioeconomy Landscape in Malaysia. New
Biotechnology. Doi: 10.1016/j.nbt.2017.06.004
3. Arujanan, M. (2017). Genetically Engineered Crops: Fake News Disappointments.
Inter Press Service. News Agency. http://www.ipsnews.net/2017/05/genetically-
engineered-crops-fake-news-disappointments/ June 1, 2017.
4. Arujanan, M. (2017). March for Science: Agony and Ecstasy of a Malaysian
Agricultural Biotechnology Communicator. Genetic Literacy Project.
https://www.geneticliteracyproject.org/2017/04/21/march-science-agony-ecstasy-
malaysian-agricultural-biotechnology-science-communicator/ April 21, 2017
5. Arujanan. M. (2017). Unlocking Asia’s potential in agribiotechnology. Genetic
Literacy Project. https://www.geneticliteracyproject.org/2017/02/21/asian-
agrobiotechnology-slowed-private-public-sector-tensions-ngo-activism/ Feb 21, 2017
6. Arujanan. M. (2016). Development of Agricultural Biotechnology in Malaysia in
Comparison to Global Status. The Planter. Vol 92 (1087): 689-697, Kuala Lumpur

7. Cormick, C., Arujanan, M., Mariechel, N. & Pillai, V. (2015). Development of
Communication Strategies for Adoption of Agri-Biotechnology in Asia Pacific. A
Framework for Engagement with Key Stakeholders about Agri-Biotechnology – a
Paradigm Shift. APAARI, APCoAB, MABIC, ISAAA & Council of Agriculture
Executive Yuan, R.O.C.
8. Arujanan. M. & Aldemita, R. (2016). Evolution of Agriculture and Crop
Technologies. In Global Status of Commercialized Biotech/GM Crops: 2015. (ed)
James, C. ISAAA Brief No. 51. ISAAA: Ithaca, NY
9. Arujanan. M. (2015). Mohd Nazlee Kamal: Championing Biotech and Bioeconomy
Initiatives in Malaysia. In Voices and Views: Why Biotech? (ed) Navarro, M.J.,
ISAAA Brief no. 50. ISAAA: Ithaca, NY.
10. Shaikh Mohd Saifuddin bin Shaikh Mohd Salleh & Arujanan. M. (2015). The Voice
of Islam for Biotechnology. (ed) Navarro, M.J., In Voices and Views: Why Biotech?
ISAAA Brief no. 50. ISAAA: Ithaca, NY.
11. Arujanan, M. (2015). Correlation between Autism and GMOs. Is there is a link?
InfoMed, Apr-June (A Medical Magazine).
12. Arujanan, M. (2013). GM Crops: A Case against Scientific Terrorism. InfoMed,
Aug (A Medical Magazine)
13. Arujanan, M. (2013). Science and Pseudoscience: Beauty and Beast. Journal of
Biosafety. Vol 4(2): 21-27
14. Arujanan, M. (2013). From Monologue to Stakeholder Engagement: The Evolution
of Biotech Communication. (eds) Navarro, M.J., Natividad-Tome, K.G. and Gimutao,
K.A. ISAAA Brief No. 45. ISAAA: Ithaca, NY. (contributed to several chapters in
this book).
15. Arujanan, M. (2012). A Need for a Systemic Approach to Public Understanding of
Biotechnology in Malaysia. Asia Pacific Journal of Molecular Biology and
Biotechnology
16. Arujanan, M., B. Ghareyazie, S.M.S. Shaikh Mohd Salleh, and A. Baharuddin.
(2011). Communicating Agribiotechnology: Bridging the Communication &
Knowledge Divide between Scientists and Ulama. Journal of Biosafety. Vol 3(3): 15-
23.
17. Arujanan, M. and Azizan binti Baharuddin (2011). Biotechnology Awareness: From
the Ivory Towers to the Masses. Communication Challenges and Convergence in
Crop Biotechnology. (ed) Navarro, M.J. and Hautea, R.A. pp. 180-202. International
Service for the Acquisition of Agri-biotech Applications.
18. Arujanan, M. and K. Cheng Liew (2009). Educating the Young to Appreciate
Science. Communicating Crop Biotechnology: Stories from Stakeholders. (ed)
Navarro, M.J. pp. 63-64. International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-biotech
Applications.
19. Arujanan, M. and K. Cheng Liew (2009). Playing a Major Role in Biotech.
Communicating Crop Biotechnology: Stories from Stakeholders. (ed) Navarro, M.J.
pp. 70-71. International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-biotech Applications.
20. Arujanan, M. and K. Cheng Liew (2009). Teacher and Student of Biotech.
pp. 88. International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-biotech Applications.

21. Arujanan, M. and K. Cheng Liew (2009). From Toxins to Biotech. Communicating
Crop Biotechnology: Stories from Stakeholders. (ed) Navarro, M.J. pp. 112-113.
International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-biotech Applications.
22. Arujanan, M. and K. Cheng Liew (2009). Learning about IPs, Biosafety, and
Commercialization. Communicating Crop Biotechnology: Stories from Stakeholders.
(ed) Navarro, M.J. pp. 120-122. International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-
biotech Applications.
23. Arujanan, M. and K. Cheng Liew (2009). Promoting the Adoption of Cutting-Edge
Technology. Communicating Crop Biotechnology: Stories from Stakeholders. (ed)
Navarro, M.J. pp. 125-126. International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-biotech
Applications.
24. Arujanan, M. and K. Cheng Liew (2009). Islamic Scholar. Communicating Crop
Biotechnology: Stories from Stakeholders. (ed) Navarro, M.J. pp. 131-133.
International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-biotech Applications.
25. Arujanan, M. and K. Cheng Liew (2009). The Businessman Talks Biotech.
26. Arujanan, M. and K. Cheng Liew (2009). Setting the Stage for Bioentrepreneurship.
27. Arujanan, M. (2007). Biotechnology in Agriculture – An Opportunity for Malaysia.
Malaysian Business. Dec Issue
28. Teng, P.P.S., Arujanan, M. & Rozhan Abu Dardak. (2007). Development of
Malaysia’s Biotechnology Sector. In The Malaysian Economy: Developments and
Challenges (ed) D. Hew. ISEAS/ NUS, Singapore.
29. Arujanan, M. (2007). Understanding Biotechnology. Symbiosis (A Technology Park
Malaysia newsletter). Aug Issue.
30. Arujanan, M. (2007). Enhancing Awareness of Biotechnology in Asia: The Role of
an NGO. Asia Pacific Biotech News. Vol. 11(8) pp. 423-426.
31. Arujanan, M. (2007) Biotechnology Crops: The Next Revolution in Agriculture. The
Ingenieur. May Issue
32. Arujanan, M. (2006). A gateway to Public Understanding to Biotechnology.
Symbiosis. Jan Issue
33. Soon-Cheang, Q and Arujanan, M. (2005). The National Biotechnology Policy: New
Opportunities for Biotechnology in Malaysia. Asia Pacific Biotech News. Vol. 9(18).
Pp. 942-950
6. Professional Activities
1. Member of National Bioethics Council
2. Member of Selangor Bio Council
3. Ad Hoc Committee (Department of Biosafety, Ministry of Natural Resources and
Environment)

4. Listed as a speaker on the Economic Bureau Biotechnology Outreach Fund under
the US State Department Economic Bureau Agriculture Policy Office
5. Adjunct Lecturer at School of Science, Monash University Sunway Campus
6. Adjunct Lecturer, Faculty of Applied Science, AIMST University
7. Trainer for Industry Cluster of Excellence (ICoE) for biotechnology under the
Ministry of Higher Education
8. Consultant for Bioentrepreneurship Training Programme (BeST) and Studio 1310
BiotechCorp
9. Industry Advisory Panel, Faculty of Science Resource and Science Technology,
UNIMAS (2016 - current)
10. Industry Advisory Board, School of Science, Monash University Sunway Campus
(2015 – current)
11. Industry Advisory Panel – Taylor’s University (2010 – current)
12. Industry Advisory Panel – Quest International University Perak (2016 – current)
13. Industry Advisory Panel – Nilai University (2010 – current)
14. Member of Bioethics Committee – Taylor’s University (2010 – current)
15. Exco Board Member. Organisation for Women in Science for Developing
Countries. Malaysian Chapter. (Dec 2012 – Dec 2014)
16. Committee Member. Animal Ethics Committee, Taylor’s University. (Oct 2012 –
Oct 2013)
17. Industry Advisory Panel – University Pahang Malaysia (2010 – 2011)
18. Industry Advisory Panel – School of Biological Sciences, University Science
Malaysia (Jan 2010 – 2011)
19. MyMAP Advisory Board member, Monash University Sunway Campus
(Medicinal and Aromatic Plants) (2011 – 2012)
20. Member, Animal Ethics Committee, Monash University Sunway Campus (Jan
2009 – Dec 2010)
21. Committee member, Malaysian Chapter of Third World Organization for Women
in Science (Jan 2009 - current)
22. Co-chair, Working Group of Public Awareness, Public Research and Regulation
Initiative (May 2008 – current)
23. Member, Subcommittee of Integrated Research and Collaboration on Healthcare,
Malaysia (Jan 2008 – Dec 2009)
24. Member, Agriculture Task Force, Academy of Sciences Malaysia (Jan 2007 –
Dec 2009)
25. Council member, Malaysian Bio Industry Organization (April 2006 – March
2011)
7. Invited Speaker (Selected only)
National
1. Arujanan, M. (23 Aug 2016). Not by Chance. Lean In Malaysia. 6th
Circle
Dialogue.
2. Arujanan, M. (4 June 2016). GMOs: Seeds of Destruction? TEDx UPM.

3. Arujanan, M. (17 Jan 2015). GMOs: Do you trust science or gut feeling? Public
talk at Gardening Society of Kuala Lumpur and Selangor.
4. Arujanan, M. (10 Oct 2013). Best practices in sustainable development in
Malaysia. Sustainable Development Network Solution, Kuala Lumpur (organized
by Prime Minister’s Office)
5. Arujanan, M. (23 Aug 2013). Sustainable development through modern biotech.
Roundtable discussion on “Sustainable Development: A Grappling Issue”, Kuala
Lumpur.
6. Arujanan, M. (24 Sept 2012). GM is not Frankenstien. Seminar on GM
Technology for Ensuring Food Security, Health and Environmental Sustainability,
MARDI, Malaysia
7. Arujanan, M. (19 Sept 2012). Best Practice in Communicating Agricultural
Biotechnology. Agro-biotechnology Institute, Malaysia.
8. Arujanan, M. (29 Nov 2010). Bridging Biotech and Society. Research Forum at
Taylor’s University, Malaysia.
9. Arujanan, M. (30 April 2010). GM Food. Biotechnology Talk for Students.
SMJK Shing Chung, Perak.
10. Arujanan, M. (9 March 2010). Biotechnology Public Awareness Initiatives in
Malaysia. Seminar for CropLife Asia: Agribiotechnology Developments in
Malaysia. Impiana Hotel, Kuala Lumpur.
11. Arujanan, M. (5 Feb 2010). The Surge of Bioeconomy: The Role of Biotech and
Biomedicine. Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur.
12. Arujanan, M. (11 Dec 2009). The Surge of bioeconomy: The Role of
Biomedicine/biotech. Open day Taylor’s University College. Kuala Lumpur.
13. Arujanan, M. (23 Dec 2009). The Art of Science Communication. AIMST
seminar on biotechnology. Kedah, Malaysia.
14. Arujanan, M. (12 Aug 2009). The new green revolution: GM technology. 4th
Annual Agribusiness Conference 2009. Kuala Lumpur.
15. Arujanan, M. (4-5 Aug 2009). Investing in Agribiotech. Biofunding 2009:
Biotech Investment opportunities conference. Kuala Lumpur.
16. Arujanan, M. (29-30 July 2009). The surge of bio-economy: Is our human
capital ready? Biotechnology Workforce Development Symposium, Kuala
Lumpur.
17. Arujanan, M. (24 June 2009). GM technology: The New Green Revolution.
BiotechWeek@KL library. Kuala Lumpur.
18. Arujanan, M. (28 May 2009). GM technology: The Fear of the Unknown.
MARDI public seminar on GM crops. Serdang, Malaysia.
19. Arujanan, M. (23 Nov 2009) The Art of Science Communication. AIMST
Biotech Seminar :Current Trends In Biotechnology. AIMST University, Kedah.
20. Arujanan, M. (30 March 2009). Paradigm Shift in R&D&C. MoU signing
between a Global Satria and a German company. Kuala Lumpur.
21. Arujanan, M. (25 March 2009). The New Green Revolution: GM technology.
Biotech Week at National Library. Kuala Lumpur.
22. Arujanan, M. (5 May 2009). Communicating biotechnology. Seminar on
Agribiotechnology: En Route to Greener Pasture through Agribiotechnology.
Asian Institute for Medical, Science and Technology University, Kedah,
Malaysia.

23. Arujanan, M. (9 Dec 2008). The New Green Revolution: GM technology. Talk
on Agribiotech at Asian Institute for Medicine, Science and Technology
University., Kedah, Malaysia
24. Arujanan, M. (15-16 Oct 2008). Biotech Developments in Malaysia. Frost and
Sullivan Growth, Innovation and Leadership Congress. Kuala Lumpur.
25. Arujanan, M. (23 July 2008). Communicating Biotechnology: A Marriage
between Scientists and Media. Colloquium on science communication: Bridging
the communication gap between scientists and the media. Kuala Lumpur.
26. Arujanan, M. (29 July 2008). Seminar: Biotechnology and Biodiversity: Friends
or Foe. "The Convergence of Biotechnology and Biodiversity in Wealth
Creation". Sarawak Biodiversity Centre (SBC), Sarawak.
27. Arujanan, M. (20 Nov 2007). Biotechnology Industry in Malaysia. Lecture at
AIMST University. Kedah, Malaysia.
28. Arujanan, M. (23 Aug 2007). A Marriage between Scientists and Media.
Workshop for Journalists on Tissue Culture: A day as a scientist. Forest Research
Institute Malaysia, Malaysia
29. Arujanan, M. (31 July 2007). Creating Public Awareness on Biotech: The Role
of an NGO. Workshop on Science Communication: Effective Communication in
Biotechnology for Journalists. Universiti Sabah Malaysia, Malaysia
30. Arujanan, M. (23 July 2007). Impact of Biosafety Law to the Industry. Briefing
on Biosafety Law for the Technical Committee of Federation of Malaysian
Manufacturers. Kuala Lumpur
31. Arujanan, M. (12 July 2007). Agribiotech: Where is Malaysia? The 8th
Malaysia
International Food & Beverage Trade Fair. Kuala Lumpur
32. Arujanan, M. (4-5 April 2005). Effective Communication for Scientists.
Malaysian Society for Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Annual Meeting
Seminar. Kuala Lumpur.
International (Selected only)
1. Arujanan, M. 10th National and 2nd
International Biotechnology Congress, Iran.
Global status of biotech Crops. (29-31 Sept 2017)
2. Arujanan, M. Asian Conference for Transcription. Communicating Science to
the Public: What, Why, Who and How. (Aug 2017)
3. Arujanan, M. EXPO 2017 Astana. Communicating Green Technology. (June
2017). Astana, Kazakhstan.
4. Arujanan, M. Conference “Unshackling Innovation: Will Europe block or enable
GM crops” (27 Sept 2016) European Parliament, Brussels, Belgium.
5. Arujanan, M. Communicating agribiotechnology as an underdog. (12 Aug
2016). Capacity Building Session with the Biosafety Regulators. Islamabad,
Pakistan.
6. Arujanan, M. Global status of Biotech Crops. (June 2016). ISAAA Launch of
Global Status of Biotech. Myanmar.
7. Arujanan, M. Gene Editing. Crops. (2016) (Vietnam, Indonesia, Bangladesh)

8. Arujanan, M. GMO Communication Needs Storytellers: Are You Game for it?
(12 April 2015) Agribiotech and Biosafety Communication Workshop. Nairobi,
Kenya.
9. Arujanan, M. Agribiotech Communication: Understanding Facts and Fiction (3
Feb 2015). ISAAA Launch of Global Status of Biotech Crops. Hanoi, Vietnam
10. Arujanan, M. Agribiotech Communication: Understanding Facts and Fiction (3
Feb 2015). ISAAA Launch of Global Status of Biotech Crops. Bangkok,
Thailand.
11. Arujanan, M. Seeds of Destruction: Sowing Misinformation and Unethical
Communication Practices (29 Sept – 3 Oct 2014). Side Event at COP-MOP7,
Pyeongchang, South Korea.
12. Arujanan, M. Risk Communication: Addressing Seeds of Destruction. (12-15
Sept 2014). APEC High Level Policy Dialogue on Agribiotechnology, Beijing,
China.
13. Arujanan, M. GMOs: Addressing concerns and issues through communication.
(18-22 Aug 2014). Second International Workshop for the Regulation of Animal
Biotechnology, Brasilia, Brazil
14. Arujanan, M. Asian Perspective of GMOs (17 June 2014). Biotech Literacy
Project: Scientists Boot Camp. Florida, USA.
15. Arujanan, M. Agribiotech: Popularised Myths vs Scientific Accuracy. (20 Feb
2014) ISAAA Launch of Global Status of Biotech Crops. Hanoi, Vietnam
16. Arujanan, M. Agribiotech: Popularised Myths vs Scientific Accuracy. (28 Feb
2014) ISAAA Launch of Global Status of Biotech Crops. Jakarta, Indonesia.
17. Arujanan, M. Agribiotech: Popularised Myths vs Scientific Accuracy. (16-17 Jan
2014). Capacity building workshop for IBC members and media practitioners.
Islamabad, Pakistan.
18. Arujanan, M. (25-26 June). Unscrambling Agribiotech issues through
communication. APEC High Level Policy Dialogue on Agribiotech. Medan, Indonesia.
19. Arujanan, M. (7-8 Feb 2013). Biotech Development in Malaysia. Workshop on
Security Aspects of Synthetic Biology. Hong Kong.
20. Arujanan, M. (2 Oct 2012). Sustainable Framing, Food Security, and
Biotechnology. Side Event at COP/MOP6, Hyderabad, India.
21. Arujanan, M. (27-29 Feb, 2012). Bridging the Communication and Knowledge
Divide: Scientists and Ulama. International Workshop on Applications of Modern
Biotech in Muslim Countries, Islamabad, Pakistan.
22. Arujanan, M. (27-29 Feb, 2012). Food security and world changes and trends since
1992. International Workshop on Applications of Modern Biotech in Muslim Countries,
Islamabad, Pakistan.
23. Arujanan, M. (20-21 Sept 2011). Agribiotech Communication Challenges in
Malaysia. International Workshop on Communicating Agricultural Biotechnology
in Muslim Countries, Langkawi, Malaysia.
24. Arujanan, M. (26-29 Aug 2011). Creative Strategies in Bridging Biotechnology
and Society. TWAS-ROESEAP Symposium on Industrial Biotechnology, Beijing,
China.
25. Arujanan, M. (6 April, 2011). From the Ivory Towers to the Public. Public
Forum on Science Communication, BioPolis, Singapore.

26. Arujanan, M. (8-10 Nov 2009). Bringing Science to the Public. TWOWS-TWAS
regional young women scientist conference, Kuala Lumpur.
27. Arujanan, M. (18-19 Sept 2008). Communicating biotechnology & the role of
Biotech Information Centre. High Level Policy Dialogue on Agri-biotech for
Public Awareness. Singapore.
28. Arujanan, M. (19-20 May 2008). Access to information and public participation:
The Way Forward. International workshop on access to information, public
participation and access to justice regarding GMOs. Organised by Aarhus
Convention., Cologne, Germany.
29. Arujanan, M. (12-14 March 2007). The Role of Biotech Information Centre in
Promoting Biotechnology. Media workshop: Innovative Aspects of Biotechnology
and its Awareness and Dissemination. Islamabad, Pakistan
30. Arujanan, M. (4-7 Sept 2006). Communication challenges in Malaysia. Biotech
Issues and Communication Workshop: Enhancing Communication Skills on
Biotechnology. Organized by International Service for the Acquisition of
Agribiotech Applications and US Grains Council., Manila, Philippines.
31. Arujanan, M. (4 July 2006). Overview of GM Crops and Food. IAAS World
Congress 2006 (International Association of students studying agricultural and
related sciences). Kuala Lumpur.
8. Conferences/events organized (Selected only)
National
1. Seminar on Sustainable Food Security in ASEAN – Role of Genetics and New
Technologies, 7 Sept 2016, Kuala Lumpur (Moderator)
2. Panel discussion on “How Science Illiteracy Threatens a Nation’s Future”, 2 June
2016, KL, Malaysia. (Speaker)
3. Stakeholder Workshop: Strategic Planning to Accelerate Agribiotechnology
Agenda in Malaysia, 27-28 Oct 2015, Serdang, Malaysia.
4. Breakfast Talk: Communicating Science in the Age of Skepticism, 27 Nov 2014,
Serdang, Malaysia
5. Breakfast Talk: The Role of Agribiotechnology in Food Production, 19 Sept 2014,
Serdang, Malaysia
6. Dialogue with MPs on biotech, 21 Nov 2013, Kuala Lumpur
7. Bioethics Forum: Tinkering with Human DNA: Are we going too far? 2 July
2013, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur
8. GM Technology for Ensuring Food Security, Health and Environmental
Sustainability Seminar, 24 Sept 2012, Serdang, Malaysia
9. Dialogue between Scientists and Journalists: Towards Agricultural Biotechnology
Communication, 19-20 Sept 2012, Serdang, Malaysia
10. Public seminar “An Introduction to Biotechnology”, 22 July 2012. Petaling Jaya,
Malaysia
11. BioBorneo Carnival 2012, Jan 2012, Sarawak, Malaysia

12. MyBio Carnival 2011, July 2011, Petaling Jaya, Malaysia.
13. Seminar on Agribiotechnology: The African Perspective, 29th
Nov 2010,
University Malaya, Malaysia
14. MyBiotechnology Carnival 2010 Kedah, 8-10 Nov, 2010, Kedah, Malaysia
15. MyBiotechnology Carnival 2010 Kuala Lumpur, 29 Sept – 2 Oct 2010, Kuala
Lumpur, Malaysia
16. Biotech Study Tour for Regulators to the US, 2-6 Aug 2010, Washington DC and
Sacramento, USA
17. Biotechnology Workshop for Teachers - 20 May 2010, Melaka Biotechnology
Corporation, Malaysia
18. Biotechnology Workshop for Teachers -18 May 2010 ,Universiti Malaysia
Sarawak, Malaysia
19. Biotechnology Workshop for Teachers -12 May 2010 ,Universiti Malaysia
Terengganu, Malaysia
20. Biotechnology Workshop for Teachers - 15th November 2009, University
Kelantan Malaysia.
21. Biotechnology Workshop for Teachers - 4th November 2009, University Sains
Malaysia.
22. Biotechnology Workshop for Teachers - 14th October 2009, University Sains
Malaysia.
23. MABIC Public Seminar Series: Agribiotech and Biosafety Regulations in
Australia: An Industry Perspective - 17th September 2009, Monash University,
Sunway Campus, Malaysia.
24. Biotechnology Workshop for Students - 7th to 8th July 2009, Forest Research
Institute Malaysia (FRIM), Malaysia
25. Biotechnology Workshop for Teachers - 18th June 2009, Universiti Teknologi
Malaysia, Johor.
26. Public Seminar on GM Crops Awareness - 28h May 2009, MARDI, Serdang,
Malaysia. (Speaker)
27. Media Workshop: Inviting Journalists for an Insight into Brain Research - 7th
May 2009, Brain Research Institute at Monash Sunway, Monash University,
Sunway Campus, Malaysia. (Speaker)
28. GM Technologies: Addressing Global Sustainability Needs and Challenges - 18th
to 19th August 2008, Palace of Golden Horses, Kuala Lumpur. (Chairperson)
29. Workshop for Teachers on Tissue Culture Technology - 26th August 2008, Forest
Biotechnology Division, Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM)
30. Seminar: "The Convergence of Biotechnology and Biodiversity in Wealth
Creation". 29th July 2008, Sarawak Biodiversity Centre (SBC), Sarawak.
(Speaker)
31. Colloquium on science communication: Bridging the communication gap between
scientists and the media. 23 July 2008 (Speaker/Moderator)
32. Biotech Workshop for teachers: Enhancing effective pedagogy. 23 June 2008,
Malaysian Palm Oil Board, Malaysia
33. Biotechnology workshop for students at Science Camp, 31 May – 1 June 2008,
Hin Huang High School, Klang, Malaysia

34. Public seminar on “Commercialization of biotechnology”. 26 Feb 2008,
Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia
35. Workshop on Regional Experience on Biosafety Frameworks, 5 Nov 2007, Kuala
Lumpur
36. Discussion on labeling GM foods, 23 Oct 2007, Federation of Malaysian
Manufacturers, Kuala Lumpur (Moderator)
37. Workshop for Journalists on Tissue Culture: A day as a scientist. 23 Aug 2007.
Forest Research Institute Malaysia, Malaysia (Speaker)
38. Conference on Modern Biotechnology. 13-14 Aug 2007, Malaysian Biotech
Corporation, Kuala Lumpur
39. Workshop on Science Communication: Effective Communication in
Biotechnology for Journalists, 31 July 2007, Universiti Sabah Malaysia,
Malaysia (Speaker)
40. Workshop on Science Communication: Effective Communication in
Biotechnology for Scientists, 30 July 2007, Universiti Sabah Malaysia, Malaysia
(Speaker)
41. Biotechnology Workshop for Teachers. 16-17 May 2007, National Science
Centre, Kuala Lumpur
42. Teaching Biotechnology in School: The Effective Pedagogy. 25 April 2007,
Putrajaya, Malaysia
43. Launch of MABIC’s new direction and ISAAA’s Global Status of
Commercialized GM Crops 2006, Malaysian Agriculture Research &
Development Institute, 6 Feb 2007, Kuala Lumpur
44. Biotechnology Workshop: Effective Communication in Biotechnology. 12 Dec
2006. Penang State Government, Malaysia (Speaker)
45. 8th
National Symposium on Biology: Indigenous Biological Research for National
Development. 5-6 Dec 2006, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Malaysia
46. Talk on Biotechnology for Educators. 28 Nov 2006. Putrajaya, Malaysia
47. Media workshop: Is Science Communication More than Journalism?, 28 Nov
2006, Academy of Science Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur
48. Seminar on Genetic Engineering in Agriculture, 21 Nov 2006, Malaysian
Agriculture Research & Development Institute, Kuala Lumpur
49. Biotechnology Workshop for School Students, 8 July 2006, Monash University
Malaysia, Malaysia
50. Seminar on “Commercialization of Agricultural Biotechnology”. 23 March 2006,
Serdang, Malaysia
51. Media Workshop, “Current Issues in Biosafety, Bioethics and Bio-
communication”, 21 Feb 2006, University Malaya, Kuala Lumpur
52. Biotechnology Workshop for Students, 20 Dec 2005, Monash University
Malaysia
53. Seminar on Biotechnology and Biodiversity for the State of Kelantan, 14 Nov
2005, Kelantan, Malaysia
54. Workshop on Sustainable Utilization of Biodiversity and the Related Issues on
Biosafety in an Islamic Perspective. 28 July 2005, Bangi, Malaysia

1. Workshop “Strengthening Asia’s Participation in MOP8”, 24 – 26 October 2016,
Serdang (Speaker and Moderator)
2. Seminar “Developing, Implementing and Reviewing Biosafety Regulations
Consistent with International Obligations”, 16-19 Nov 2015, Serdang, Malaysia
3. International Meeting on New Trends in Biotechnology, 12-13 Dec 2013, Monash
University Malaysia (Co-organised with ISESCO)
4. International Workshop on Communicating Agribiotech in Muslim Countries, 20-
21 Sept 2011, Langkawi, Malaysia.
5. BioRunway, 6 April 2011. BioPolis, Singapore
6. International Workshop for Islamic Scholars on Agribiotechnology:
“Agribiotechnology: Shariah Compliance”, 1-2 Dec 2010, Traders Hotel, Kuala
Lumpur (Fund raiser and key organizer)
7. Training for Iran Biotechnology Information Centre (IrBIC), 28-29 Sept 2010,
Kuala Lumpur (Organizer and Speaker)
8. Session on Genetic Modification and Halal at World Halal Forum 2010, 22 June
2010, Kuala Lumpur (Organizer)
9. Seminar for CropLife Asia: Agribiotechnology Developments in Malaysia - 9th
March 2010, Impiana Hotel, Kuala Lumpur (Speaker)
10. TWAS-TWOWS-PSN-SCOPUS Regional Young Women Scientists Symposium
2009: Bridging the Science Gender Gap in Developing Countries - 8th to 10th
November 2009, Kuala Lumpur (Committee member)
11. TWAS Regional Young Scientists' Conference: Food, Health and Fuel: Plants for
the Future - 2nd to 5th November 2009, Petaling Jaya (Committee member)
12. International Workshop for Islamic Scholars "Islam and Biotechnology: Finding a
Common Language between Ulama and Scientists"- 14th to 15th July 2009,
University Malaya, Kuala Lumpur. (Chairperson)
13. Expert Consultation on Agricultural Biotechnology for Promoting Food Security
in Developing Countries - 20th to 22nd August 2008, MINES Beach Resort,
Kuala Lumpur. (Committee member)
14. Asia Pacific Conference on Plant Tissue Culture and Agribiotechnology, 17-21
June, Kuala Lumpur (Committee member)
15. Media workshop: Innovative Aspects of Biotechnology and its Awareness and
Dissemination, 12-14 March 2007. Islamabad, Pakistan (Speaker/fund raiser)
16. International Symposium on Molecular Farming in Plants. 13-15 June 2006,
Kuala Lumpur (Fund raiser)
17. The development of agricultural biotechnology in Islamic countries: Sharing the
experience on issues and challenges, 6-8 March 2006, Cairo, Egypt (Fund raiser)
8. Conferences/Events attended (Selected only)
National
1. BioCommercialization workshop. 7-8 Dec 2009. Kuala Lumpur
2. Risk Communication Workshop. 5-6 Aug 2009, Kuala Lumpur
3. BioMalaysia 2009, 17-19 Nov 2009, Kuala Lumpur

4. BioMalaysia 2008, 709 Oct 2008, Kuala Lumpur
5. BIO Convention 2008. 17-20 May 2008. San Diego, USA
6. BioMalaysia 2007. 26-30 Nov 2007, Kuala Lumpur
7. NRE/UNDP/GEF Inception workshop on support to capacity building activities in
implementing Cartagena Protocol. 19 July 2007, Kuala Lumpur
8. Raising Awareness of Biotechnology: Prospects and Challenges. 5 June 2007.
Kuala Lumpur
9. Symposium on Biosafety and Biosafety Education. 19 April 2007, Kuala Lumpur
10. Biotechnology Symposium III (Agrobiotechnology: Modernizing Agriculture
through Molecular Biology). 29 Nov-1 Dec 2006, Kuala Lumpur
11. NRE/UNDP Policy Dialogue on Liability and Redress of the Cartagena Protocol
on Biosafety, 29 Aug 2006, Kuala Lumpur
12. Seminar on Setting the Scene on Bioethics Education and Research in Malaysia,
16 Aug 2006, Kuala Lumpur
13. Biotech Asia 2006, 9-11 Aug 2006, Kuala Lumpur
14. Stem Cells a New Dimension of Medical Development: Issues and Challenges. 6
March, Kuala Lumpur
15. Seminar on Current Issues on Genetically Modified Organisms, 11 Aug 2005,
Sabah, Malaysia.
16. BioMalaysia April 2005, Kuala Lumpur
1. Bio San Diego, 23-27 June 2014, San Diego, USA.
2. International Workshop on Applications of Modern Agribiotechnology in Muslim
Countries: Specific Issues and Challenges, 27-29 Feb 2012. Islamabad, Pakistan
(Speaker)
3. The sixth meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on
Biological Diversity (CBD) serving as the Meeting of the Parties to the Cartagena
Protocol on Biosafety (COP/MOP 6), 1 – 5 Oct 2012, Hyderabad, India
4. Asian region preparation meeting for RIO+20, MOP6, COP11 and CSD 20. 10 –
11 Jan 2012. Bangkok. Thailand.
5. Global Entrepreneurship training. 16 – 20 Jan 2012. San Francisco, USA.
6. International Workshop on Applications of Modern Biotech in Muslim Countries,
Islamabad, Pakistan. 27-29 Feb 2012, Islamabad, Pakistan
7. 11th
International Symposium on the Biosafety of Genetically Modified
Organisms (ISBGMO), 15-21 Nov 2010, Buenos Aires, Argentina
8. The fifth meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on
Protocol on Biosafety (COP/MOP 5), 11-15 Oct 2010, Nagoya, Japan
9. Joint Aarhus Convention/Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety Workshop on Public
Awareness, Access to Information and Public Participation Regarding LMOs, 8-9
Oct 2010, Nagoya, Japan
10. International Conference on Knowledge Management in Agricultural
Biotechnology: The Asian Experience. 1-2 Oct 2009, Bangkok, Thailand
(Chairperson)

11. APEC High Level Policy Dialogue on Public Awareness. 23-27 Feb 2009,
Australia
12. International Symposium on the Biosafety of Genetically Modified Organisms
(ISBGMO), 17-21 Nov 2008, Wellington, New Zealand
13. International workshop on access to information, public participation and access
to justice regarding GMOs. Organised by Aarhus Convention. 19-20 May 2008,
Cologne, Germany (Panelist)
14. The fourth meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on
Protocol on Biosafety (COP/MOP 4), 12-16 May 2008, Bonn, Germany
15. Asia Sub-regional workshop in capacity building and exchange of experiences in
Risk Assessment and Risk Management of LMOs. 7-9 April 2008, Kuala Lumpur
16. International short course on agriculture biotechnology in Michigan State
University, 9-21 Sept 2007, Michigan State University, USA
17. Regional Biosecurity Workshop. 28-30 May 2007, Singapore
18. South East Asian Workshop on Regulation and Management of Transgenic Field
Trials. 6-8 Dec 2006, Manila, Philippines
19. Regional Workshop on IPR, 30-31 May 2006, Manila, Philippines
20. Bio Chicago, 10-13 April, Chicago, USA
21. International Media Tour By US Grains Council, 3-9 April 2006, USA
22. Biosafety Policy Options for APEC Economies & PRRI MOP3 Preparatory
Workshop. 15-18 Jan 2006, Manila, Philippines
23. AusBiotech 2005, 20-24 Nov 2005, Perth, Australia
24. Asia Pacific Roundtable on preventing hostile use of life sciences, 20-21 Sept
2005, Kuala Lumpur
25. ASEAN Pre-MOP2 meeting, 12 May 2005, Singapore
9. Student mentorship
 Natalia Hanna Borkowska
Masters in Management (Policy-Analysis and Entrepreneurship in Health and
Life Sciences) (2012)
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
 Zuzana van der Werf Kulichova
PhD (Biotechnology and Society) (2016)
Delft University of Technology, Netherlands
 Have trained and mentored dozens of undergraduates from both public and
private universities during their internship at MABIC
 Have trained/counseled thousands of students from both public and private
universities in Malaysia on biotechnology and careers in biotechnology

 Train undergraduates in science journalism who write regular articles for The
Petri Dish
10. Social Activities
 Involved in motivational talks to create a culture of excellence and create new
generation of Malaysians who are competitive and highly motivated.
 Create interest in STEM among students and science-literacy among general
public

CV Dr Mahaletchumy Arujanan

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