NUCLEAR AGENCY, LKTN UNVEIL NEW HIGH-YIELD KENAF VARIETIES

KUALA LUMPUR, April 28 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Nuclear Agency, in collaboration with the National Kenaf and Tobacco Board (LKTN), has introduced two new kenaf seed varieties, MK1 and MK2, offering higher yields and greater resilience against climate change.

In a statement, the agency said the varieties were developed through research and development (R&D) using gamma irradiation technology, with MK1 irradiated at 300 Gray (Gy) and MK2 at 800 Gy.

The induced mutation method was used to improve kenaf’s agronomic traits, making the crop more productive and climate-resilient.

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“MK1 and MK2 have shown significant yield improvements over the V36 variety, which has been cultivated in Malaysia for over 15 years. Field trials at LKTN’s plot in Beseri, Perlis recorded fresh stalk yields between 24 and 32 tonnes per hectare .- a 20 to 60 per cent increase compared to V36's 20 to 25 tonnes per hectare," the statement said.

Both varieties also feature distinctive characteristics, including palm-shaped leaves and MK1’s fully light-yellow flower petals, making them easily identifiable.

The launch was officiated by Minister of Plantation and Commodities Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani at an event held in Kelantan yesterday.

Also present were the ministry's secretary-general Datuk Yusran Shah Mohd Yusof, LKTN chairman Datuk Wan Abdul Rahim Wan Abdullah, and Malaysian Nuclear Agency director-general Dr Rosli Darmawan.

The agency said the MK name stands for 'Malaysia Kenaf', reinforcing the local identity as part of efforts to strengthen the national kenaf industry.

MK1 and MK2 have also received official recognition with Protection of New Plant Varieties (PVBT) approval from the Department of Agriculture Malaysia, under filings PVBT 003/25 and PVBT 004/25 respectively.

The agency added that the new varieties support the National Nuclear Technology Policy (DTNN) 2030, which promotes the use of nuclear technology in non-energy sectors like agriculture and biotechnology, in line with the National Agrocommodity Policy 2021-2030 goals.

“The collaboration highlights the potential of nuclear technology in agriculture, particularly in developing more resilient and productive crops, strengthening food security and promoting sustainable farming amid climate change.

“The Malaysian Nuclear Agency remains committed to delivering innovative nuclear solutions that benefit the people, industry, and the economy, while strengthening public confidence in the peaceful applications of nuclear technology,” it said.

-- BERNAMA