The Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) Centre for Drug Research (CDR) is inviting academics, enforcement authorities, industry players and policymakers to collaborate on ketum (Mitragyna speciosa)-related studies.
Recognised as a Higher Education Centre of Excellence (HICoE), CDR, said its director Prof Dr Vikneswaran Murugaiyah, is ready to serve as a referral centre to drive a research agenda that is strategic and impactful, specifically in the study of ketum.
“From the aspect of public health, local evidence-based scientific research conducted could support policies based on data for risk mitigation purposes, treatment of addiction, and the potential development of safe therapeutic applications.
“We also need to seize the opportunity to strengthen talent and reputation development, and enhance the R&D ecosystem to attract global research collaborations, research funding and high-impact investments,” he said in a Sept 23 press release.
By adopting a holistic and interdisciplinary approach, the centre has been recognised locally and internationally as a pioneer in the region’s study on ketum, said Prof Vikneswaran.
Malaysia, the natural habitat of the plant, could become the main player in ketum research in view of its unique geographical location and rich biodiversity, he added.
“Our study on ketum began in 2009 and has since grown through an interdisciplinary approach combining pharmacology, toxicology, analytical chemistry, clinical science, health policies and the social sciences.
“CDR has published more than 150 scholarly publications, making it among the highest in the world,” he said, adding that by having core expertise, a highly-committed team of researchers and world-class laboratory facilities, the centre has consistently generated scientific data that significantly contribute to the nation.
CDR, in collaboration with Indonesia’s National Research and Innovation Agency and Thailand’s Prince of Songkla University, is organising “Kratom Updates 2025” from Oct 9 to 10 in Bali, Indonesia.
The conference, which is entering its second year, provides a scientific platform for scientists from Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia to enhance cooperation and share the latest research findings on ketum. Among the topics to be discussed is the usage of ketum in relation to health.
