ASM FAScinate Series 2/2023

On 22 June 2023, FAScinate returned for its second series, featuring another four industry experts who will share their topics related to the theme of Precision Biodiversity.

The FAScinate programme aims to attract audiences from various walks of life to the field of science through a more relaxed presentation of academic lectures. “Open Minds, Spark Ideas” aptly describes FAScinate’s objective to open the minds of the audience and generate new ideas.

—

Professor Ts Dr Kasturi Devi Kanniah from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia is an ASM Fellow and senior member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE).

Her expertise lies in remote sensing technology, specifically in linking field data with remote sensing to study vegetation processes, land management, and urban low carbon initiatives, including addressing atmospheric pollution.

Biological diversity is essential for ecosystems to function and adapt, but it is declining rapidly, jeopardising global food security, public health, and overall well-being.

Remote sensing technology, through the use of satellite imagery and data analysis, helps monitor and understand biodiversity changes.

Case studies in Malaysia have shown how remote sensing detects mangrove and forest cover loss, aiding conservation and sustainable land management.

Professor Kasturi is present today to present her lecture titled: Eyes in the Sky: Monitoring Biodiversity Loss.

—

ASM Fellow Dr Ravigadevi Sambanthamurthi is the Former Director of Advanced Biotechnology and Breeding Centre at the Malaysia Palm Oil Board, or MPOB.

She led the MPOB Oil Palm Genome Project, decoding the oil palm genome and discovering economically and environmentally important genes.

She has published extensively, including in Nature, and holds numerous patents. Her innovative solutions to environmental challenges have earned her prestigious honours and awards.

Despite deforestation concerns, the oil palm remains the most productive oil crop, supporting economic development and alleviating poverty, especially among smallholders.

Exploring the oil palm genome has led to groundbreaking discoveries, improving yield and addressing environmental issues.

These breakthroughs were published in Nature, validating their importance. One key finding is the SHELL gene, used to control oil yield.

Planting DNA-tested seeds or seedlings with this gene can optimise land use, generate significant economic gains, and increase productivity.

Dr Ravigadevi presented her FAScinate talk titled: Bittersweet Harvest: The Oil Palm as a Source of Controversy and Sustainability.

—

Dr Lim Po Teen is an associate professor at the Institute of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Universiti Malaya.

He specialises in researching Harmful Algal Bloom, or HAB for short. His work has led to the discovery of novel harmful algae species and the understanding of HAB mechanisms in Malaysia.

Dr Lim holds leadership roles in international HAB networks and has been recognised with prestigious fellowships. Furthermore, Dr Lim has had three harmful algae species named after him.

To date, Dr Lim’s research team has discovered no less than 15 novel harmful algae species from Malaysian waters.

In this FAScinate series, Dr Lim Po Teen presented his research on Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning, exploring the mechanisms behind toxic algae blooms in tropical estuaries.

He also discussed benthic toxic algae in Pulau Perhentian and the increased risk of ciguatera fish poisoning due to coral reef degradation.

His talk emphasised the use of eDNA and metabarcoding for improved monitoring and risk assessment in HAB research.

Dr Lim presented his lecture titled: Unveiling the Killer Algae.

—

The final speaker for this series is Associate Professor Ts Dr Aslina Baharum. Dr Aslina is an accomplished Associate Professor at Sunway University who is known for her innovative work in technology.

With extensive experience in academia, industry, and research, she has made significant contributions in the field of Information Technology.

Her achievements include multiple academic achievements, memberships in prestigious organisations, and numerous awards.

With her unwavering commitment to innovation and education, Dr Aslina paves the way for future generations, leaving an indelible impact on the world.

Immersive technology, including virtual reality, augmented reality, and mixed reality, has emerged as a promising tool for biodiversity management.

It improves data collection, analysis, and engagement, revolutionising traditional methods.

User Experience (UX) is crucial for enhancing immersive technology’s potential and addressing technical, social, and ethical considerations.

This technology enables more efficient and sustainable biodiversity management and may inspire larger-scale projects like autonomous vehicles for forest monitoring and digital twin technology for forest simulation and management.

Dr Aslina Baharum concluded today’s FAScinate series with her lecture titled: Digital Jungle: Immersive Technology in Precision Diversity.