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Last Updated: 07 November 2023

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KEYNOTE ADDRESS

THE HONOURABLE DATO’ SRI HAJI FADILLAH BIN HAJI

YUSOF

DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER

AND  

MINISTER OF PLANTATION AND COMMODITIES

OPENING CEREMONY OF

THE 51ST ANNUAL SESSION AND MEETINGS (ASM) OF THE

INTERNATIONAL PEPPER COMMUNITY (IPC)

NOVEMBER 7TH, 2023 (TUESDAY)

10.00 AM

PULLMAN HOTEL, KUCHING

SARAWAK, MALAYSIA

Bismillahirrahmanirrahim

SALUTATION

Assalamualaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh, Salam Malaysia Madani, Selamat Datang and Welcome to Malaysia!

1. Let me begin by expressing my deep gratitude to the International Pepper Community (IPC), Ministry of Plantation and Commodities, and Malaysian Pepper Board (MPB) for their instrumental role in co-organizing the 51st Annual Session and Meetings of the International Pepper Community and International Spice Exhibition, commonly known as the 51st IPC ASM ISE.
2. It is a distinct privilege to address the diverse audience before me today, comprising both local participants and esteemed guests from around the world. As I stand here before all of you, I take pride of being given the honour to deliver the keynote address at this prestigious event taking place in my home state of the captivating Land of the Hornbills, Sarawak.
3. Malaysia's role as the host for the 51st IPC ASM ISE serves as a testament to its unwavering commitment to the global pepper industry. This monumental event has successfully brought together experts, industry leaders, and stakeholders from across the globe that offers an invaluable platform for discussions, knowledge exchange, and collaborative initiatives aimed at advancing the production, trade, and sustainability of the pepper industry.

Ladies and gentlemen, 

4. Pepper, as we all recognize, holds a distinguished place as one of the most globally beloved and traded spice. It offers more than mere flavor to our dishes and plays a pivotal role in the livelihoods, economic prosperity, and food security of millions of people.
5. Over the years, the global pepper industry has grappled with various challenges, with the most prominent being the imbalance between supply and demand. This disparity has exerted significant pressure on prices and the cultivation of pepper in diverse regions.
6. At this juncture, please allow me to present key data and statistics that illuminate the state of the pepper industry. As of 2022, according to the records of the IPC, it was estimated that the world consumed approximately 213 thousand tonnes of pepper, indicating a slight decline in demand compared to the preceding year, which saw consumption of 224 thousand tonnes. This decline can largely be attributed to the postpandemic recovery and necessary demand adjustments.
7. Conversely, global pepper production in 2022 reached 537 thousand tonnes, a decrease from the 548 thousand tonnes recorded in 2021. The decline in supply highlights the importance for us, together with every member of the IPC countries, to develop programs aimed at stimulating consumption. This initiative should extend beyond traditional markets to encompass new ones, which could include cooperative programs between member countries, as outlined in Article 3 of The Agreement Establishing the International Pepper Community, a consensus reached among esteemed IPC members.

Ladies and gentlemen,

8. In recent times, consumers have grown increasingly concerned about how to meet market demands that now require higher quality standards and stricter import regulations. Both the United States and the European Union have established more rigorous import standards for spices, pepper included by raising concerns regarding consumer safety, production practices, labor conditions, and environmental considerations.
9. Hence, reducing pesticide residues in pepper products is not just a preference but a necessity as it elevates the level of compliance for quantities in today's pepper market. The proper use of plant protection products adhering to Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) is vital to ensure the protection of both exporters and consumers.
10. As expectations and challenges within the pepper industry continue to mount, the ongoing cooperation and mutual support of all member countries remain critical and vital for the International Pepper Community (IPC). Therefore, in our pursuit of a sustainable pepper industry, we must reinforce several collective approaches and strategies to empower the global pepper industry
11. Among these approaches are Sustainable Farming Practices that prioritize soil health, water conservation, and biodiversity. These practices can lead to higher yields and improved quality while mitigating the environmental impact of cultivation.
12. Geographical origin is rapidly becoming a crucial factor in determining the quality of pepper. There is a pressing demand for a standardized system to identify the geographic origin of pepper to prevent counterfeit issues and support bids for higher market prices. Therefore, it is of great importance to provide special protection for goods or products falling within the Geographical Indication (GI) category, a topic that should be deliberated in this conference.

Ladies and gentlemen,

13. As we convene at this International Pepper Conference, we are not merely reflecting on the history and current state of the pepper industry but we are actively shaping its future. The theme, 'Balancing the Global Pepper Supply and Demand – Alleviating Pressure on Prices,' underscores the critical need to address the current challenges faced by the industry.
14. In a world where price fluctuations can have a significant impact on people's livelihoods and global food security, finding equilibrium and sustainability is of paramount importance. I am pleased to anticipate that the exchanges and collaborations that emerge from this conference will not only leave a lasting impact on the global pepper industry but will also contribute to broader goals of sustainable agriculture and the strengthening of our global food security.
15. With the participation of numerous distinguished individuals from member and non-member countries, I firmly believe that by implementing sound strategies and documenting specific work plans and activities, this conference will provide invaluable takeaways for all attendees.
16. I wish you all a successful and productive deliberation at the 51st IPC Annual Session and Meetings. Remember, your insights, expertise, and commitment are the driving forces that will shape the future and solidify the foundation of this industry.
17. Together, we shall champion our pepper farmers, advocate sustainability and ensure that our esteemed title as the "King of Spice" continues to thrive in our lives. Together, we can strive to be stronger and achieve greatness.
18. On that note, it gives me great pleasure to officially inaugurate the 51st Annual Session and Meetings of the International Pepper Community and International Spice Exhibition. I wish you all a fruitful conference and a pleasant stay in Kuching, Sarawak. Thank you.

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Last Updated: 02 October 2023

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MINISTERIAL OPENING ADDRESS

YAB DATO' SRI HAJI FADILLAH BIN HAJI YUSOF DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER &

MINISTER OF PLANTATION AND COMMODITIES

MPOA NATIONAL PALM OIL CONFERENCE (NPOC2023) 

“PALM PROGRESS:

FUTURE-PROOFING COMPETITIVENESS AND SUSTAINABILITY”

MONDAY, 2^ND OCTOBER 2023 SUNWAY RESORT HOTEL

Bismillahirrahmanirrahim.

Salutations

Assalamualaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh and a very good afternoon. 

1. To begin, I want to express my deep gratitude for the privilege of addressing this esteemed gathering at the inaugural MPOA National Palm Oil Conference 2023 (NPOC2023), hosted by the Malaysian Palm Oil Association (MPOA). This is a momentous occasion especially given the significance it holds within the palm oil industry, particularly with Budget 2024 on the horizon. This conference I believe will serve as a vital platform for knowledge exchange and networking amongst MPOA members and stakeholders in the plantation sector.

2. Under the overarching theme of "PALM PROGRESS: FUTUREPROOFING COMPETITIVENESS AND SUSTAINABILITY," this event aims to facilitate and sustain important dialogues on various pressing issues in our industry. I am particularly pleased to see that sustainability and plantation management will take center stage through illuminating panel discussions.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

3. Over the years, Malaysia's oil palm industry has played a transformative role in establishing our country as a global leader in the edible oil markets, while also fostering our national economy. This sector stands as a resilient socio-economic pillar, significantly contributing to rural development. It has consistently provided employment opportunities, stimulated spin-off industries, and bolstered foreign exchange earnings. Moreover, the entire supply chain has consistently contributed substantial tax revenues, highlighting its economic importance.

4. However, we must collectively work towards sustaining the prosperity of these critical facets of our industry. While Malaysia is blessed with palm oil, we must also acknowledge the challenges of navigating the global agricultural landscape. It is important to emphasize that removing palm oil from the global food supply would have devastating consequences for our industry and the world at large.

5. Malaysia's contribution to the palm oil industry is remarkable. As of December 2022, oil palm planted in Malaysia stands at 5.67 million hectares occupying only 0.1% of the world's agricultural land which translates into a significant share of approximately 18% of the world's exports of edible oils and fats. Here, I want to emphasize that the industry's sustained growth and competitiveness, even in the face of social and environmental concerns is laudable.

6. Our country remains committed to confronting discriminatory trade practices aimed at undermining this essential agricultural commodity. As such, we will continue our efforts to engage with the European Union and other stakeholders following the implementation of the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) to protect our industry.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

7. The oil palm sector operates under unique conditions, intrinsically tied to a biological and perennial tree. It requires continuous investments, labor-intensive practices, and management of a complex supply chain. The journey thus far is marked by the collective efforts of oil palm planters and stakeholders, along with supportive government policies has been challenging yet successful. Therefore, it is our shared responsibility to ensure this narrative of success continues to set a sustainable course for the industry's future.

8. Beyond the Malaysian oil palm industry, it is heartening to note that this industry aligns seamlessly with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals and Malaysia's MADANI agenda. This alignment reflects our commitment to sustainability, not just as a buzzword, but as a guiding principle for inclusive development.

9. Furthermore, I firmly believe that this conference holds paramount importance, transcending the immediate impact of knowledge-sharing. It is poised to shape the future priorities of the plantation sector and significantly influence the Malaysian economy. This event is not just a platform for voicing industry aspirations but a lighthouse in guiding policymaking and fostering sustainable growth.

10. The future of the Malaysian oil palm industry hinges on costproductivity, competitiveness, and sustainability. Our call to action is clear as it is imperative that we must convene all stakeholders to address these pressing concerns and chart a well-defined roadmap for the sector's future. This endeavor is not merely a necessity; it is an opportunity to drive positive change and ensure the continued growth and vitality of this vital segment of Malaysia's economy.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

11. In closing, I would like to extend my warmest congratulations to the MPOA for organizing this conference with finesse and foresight. I eagerly anticipate our gathering tomorrow evening at the MPOA Gala dinner which provides us with a post-Covid-19 opportunity to strengthen camaraderie, build networks, and engage in renewed conversations about various aspects of the palm oil industry.

12. On this note, it is with great pride and honor that I officially inaugurate the Malaysian Palm Oil Association’s National Palm Oil Conference 2023.

Please stay vigilant and committed as we embark on this collective journey towards a sustainable and prosperous future for our industry and our nation.

Thank you

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Last Updated: 29 August 2023

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TEKS UCAPAN

YAB DATO’ SRI HAJI FADILLAH BIN HAJI

YUSOF TIMBALAN PERDANA MENTERI

DAN

MENTERI PERLADANGAN DAN KOMODITI

MALAYSIA

SEMPENA

MAJLIS PELANCARAN KEMPEN

#SAYSOMETHINGNICE 2023

TARIKH: 29 OGOS 2023 (SELASA)

DI LECTURE THEATRE 12, TAYLOR’S UNIVERSITY LAKESIDE CAMPUS, SUBANG

“STAY MEASURED TO MOVE FORWARD”

Do Not Over Do It, Do Not Under Do It. Do It Just Right.

Take action to make Malaysia better Bismillahirrahmanirrahim

Salutasi

Assalamualaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh, Salam

Sejahtera, dan Salam Malaysia MADANI

1. Terlebih dahulu, saya ingin merakamkan ucapan terima kasih dan setinggi-tinggi penghargaan kepada pihak Zubedy (M) Sdn Bhd yang telah berjaya menganjurkan kempen #SaySomethingNice buat kali ke-10. Saya berasa amat gembira kerana dapat bersama-sama meraikan pelancaran kempen #SaySomethingNice yang akan bermula pada Hari Kebangsaan 31 Ogos  sehingga Hari Malaysia pada 16 September ini.

2. Terima kasih juga kepada Taylor’s University selaku penaja lokasi bagi majlis pelancaran kempen #SaySomethingNice dan juga sebagai salah satu ahli ‘ Coalition of the Measured’. Saya amat mengalu-alukan penglibatan sebuah lagi pusat pendidikan ternama dalam usaha memupuk perpaduan di kalangan rakyat Malaysia, khususnya di kalangan pelajar dan anak-anak 

3. Perpaduan merupakan aset penting negara serta tunjang utama ke arah menjadikan Malaysia sebuah negara maju dan lebih dinamik pada masa akan datang. Adalah amat penting untuk kita mendidik anak-anak muda dan belia negara dengan rasa cinta kepada tanah air serta menghargai dan meraikan ciri-ciri kepelbagaian kaum, agama dan budaya yang telah sekian lama menjadi amalan di Malaysia.

4. Bagi pihak Kerajaan, ingin saya tegaskan bahawa kami secara konsisten memikirkan usaha-usaha yang perlu dilaksanakan sejajar dengan kerangka perpaduan baharu yang telah dibangun oleh Kementerian Perpaduan Negara dengan berkonsepkan Perpaduan dalam Kepelbagaian bagi mereliasasikan aspirasi Malaysia MADANI. Kerajaan Malaysia juga telah menubuhkan Majlis Penasihat Perpaduan Negara Malaysia (MPPN), sebuah majlis yang diwujudkan khas untuk menggalakkan perpaduan dan persefahaman dalam kalangan penduduk yang berbilang kaum. Peranan MPPN adalah untuk memastikan perpaduan kekal utuh demi masa depan Malaysia menerusi perbincangan isu-isu perpaduan, usaha-usaha penyatuan nasional (national reconciliation) dari pelbagai sudut, dan mencadangkan kaedah-kaedah penyelesaian terbaik kepada kerajaan. Berpandangan kehadapan, saya yakin MPPN, bersedia untuk terus memainkan peranan penting bagi memupuk sikap saling hormat-menghormati, toleransi, serta bersatu hati demi kemajuan bersama di kalangan rakyat Malaysia. Saya amat berbesar hati dan berbangga dengan inisiatif kempen #SaySomethingNice ini dimana ianya sedikit sebanyak membantu MPPN dalam usaha ke arah membina jambatan bagi menghubungkan masyarakat berbilang kaum. Ini sekaligus mencerminkan kekuatan Malaysia yang kaya dengan budayanya serta keharmonian rakyat dari pelbagai kaum. 

Hadirin sekalian, ladies and gentlemen

5. I believe that the slogan for #SaySomethingNice 2023 which is ‘“ Stay MEASURED to move forward’, Do Not Over Do It, Do Not Under Do It. Do It Just Right”, is indeed very well thought and quite timely. It is imperative that all Malaysians always bear in mind that our unity as a nation is far more important than any differences we may have. Yes, we may have divergent political views and we certainly have diversity in culture and religion. But we must never forget that in the end, we are all Malaysians, one nation united under the Malaysian Flag, the Federal Constitution and the Rukun Negara. That is the overarching principle that should bind us all. That principle and our adherence to it, has served us well in the past and should continue to serve us well as we work together to build a worthy future for our country.

6. ‘Being MEASURED’ as i understand it is to be centred; to be in the middle ground in abeyance of extremism and ignorance. It is that conscious decision to remain moderate and just; to do the right thing for the right objectives, with integrity and sincerity. Throughout our history, Malaysia and Malaysians have been well known for our moderation and our willingness to embrace differences amongst ourselves while remaining respectful and tolerant. Why should we change something that has worked so well for us all this while? Now is the time for us to reflect on who we are, and to go back to the values that have made us strong and resilient as a country. Being MEASURED, is the first thing we all need to be mindful of, as we take our collective leap on to the path to the future that is fraught with challenges, but one that is full of promise if we start the journey right.

7. I am indeed very pleased to note that one of the key elements in this #SaySomethingNice campaign is the emphasis on our Rukun Negara. As I understand it, for the 17-day duration of the campaign, that is from August 31 to September 16, or in other words from Hari Kebangsaan to Hari Malaysia, the Zubedy group has organised a sub-campaign themed #RukunNegaraSomethingNice specifically focused on a deeper understanding of the principles of Rukun Negara and the virtues that are found within them, especially targeted at the youth. I’m sure it will all go down very well and i look forward to hearing of the positive outcome that the campaign will certainly deliver.

Ladies and gentlemen, tuan-tuan dan puan-puan

8. Apa yang turut menarik perhatian saya mengenai kempen ini ialah poster #SaySomethingNice yang mampu memupuk rasa kebersamaan dan semangat perpaduan kepada sesiapa yang mengamatinya. Saya ingin menggalakkan semua pihak, khususnya media penerbitan dan siaran untuk turut bersamasama menyokong kempen perpaduan seperti ini, yang boleh dikatakan kempen yang ‘simple’ tetapi berupaya menghasilkan impak yang besar. Sebagai contoh mungkin pihak media boleh pertimbangkan untuk mencetak poster #SaySomethingNice sebagai ‘centre spread ’; seperti mana yang pernah dilakukan oleh penerbitan akhbar seperti The Star, Sinar Harian New Straits Times dan Berita Harian bagi kempen #SaySomethingNice tahun- tahun sebelum ini.

9. Langkah ini pasti akan menarik lebih perhatian dan meningkatkan lagi kesedaran rakyat Malaysia terhadap kempen positif ini. Bayangkan jika ramai yang mempamerkan poster ini di merata tempat termasuk di rumah dan di pejabat, malah di tempat-tempat kunjungan umum. Saya yakin posterposter ini akan dapat menyemai rasa kebersamaan  dan ikatan yang kuat untuk menyemarakkan semangat perpaduan dalam persekitaran peribadi dan profesional kita. Perpaduan dalam kalangan rakyat Malaysia dapat diperjuangkan menerusi kempen #SaySomethingNice.

10. Usaha Kumpulan Zubedy dalam menyediakan poster- poster ini secara percuma adalah sesuatu yang patut dihargai. Saya menggalakkan semua yang hadir pada hari ini untuk mendapatkan poster tersebut agar ianya boleh dikongsikan bersama  rakan-rakan dan keluarga sama ada secara langsung mahupun secara maya, sekaligus mewujudkan satu gerakan besar untuk menerapkan asas-asas murni kempen ini di kalangan masyarakat umum. 

Tuan-tuan dan puan-puan,

11. Pada pengamatan saya kempen #SaySomethingNice ini adalah platform yang baik untuk menyatupadukan rakyat. Kempen ini juga wajar dipuji kerana memberi inspirasi kepada orang ramai untuk mewujudkan lebih banyak kegiatan yang baik. Saya dimaklumkan di bawah kempen #SaySomethingNice terdapat beberapa projek, yang mana setiap projek tersebut membawa mesej perpaduan melalui aktiviti yang berbeza. Antara projek-projek tersebut adalah;

a. #RukunNegaraSomethingNice – Usaha mendidik belia akan  kefahaman tentang Prinsip dan Cita-cita Rukun Negara.

1. #PestaWarisanSomethingNice – Projek yang dijalankan untuk memaparkan budaya dan tradisi yang dimiliki oleh rakyat Malaysia
2. #HeritageSomethingNice – Menggalakkan orang ramai untuk sama-sama menjaga warisan budaya Malaysia dengan menggunakan media sosial sebagai platform penyebaran maklumat supaya lebih dikenali.

12. Saya dimaklumkan juga terdapat lebih daripada 40 projek dibawah kempen #SaySomethingNice yang dirancang pada tahun ini. Saya harap semua program ini diberikan liputan serta pendedahan sewajarnya agar lebih ramai rakyat akan dapat turut serta dan mendapat manfaat daripadanya.

13. Saya amat bangga melihat organisasi perniagaan, pusat membeli-belah dan institusi pendidikan seperti Taylor’s University, Rasuah Busters, Kumpulan Media Karangkraf, Jaya One, Kechara Soup Kitchen, Subang Parade, MeTimeBook Café semuanya bersatu hati dan bergabung tenaga bagi menjayakan kempen ini. Itulah cerminan kempen #SaySomethingNice yang meraikan konsep “Perpaduan dalam  Kepelbagaian” – slogan yang harus kita semai dan kita amalkan dengan lebih meluas. 

14. Di kesempatan ini juga, saya ingin mengucapkan terima kasih kepada semua pihak yang hadir dalam menyokong usaha kumpulan zubedy demi memupuk semangat perpaduan di kalangan rakyat Malaysia. Saya berharap lebih ramai peserta dapat melibatkan diri secara aktif, positif dan konstruktif di dalam kempen #SaySomethingNice, secara langsung dan secara berterusan, malah terus menggalakan semangat perpaduan setelah selesai tempoh kempen ini kelak. Semoga kempen ini berjalan dengan lancar dan berjaya. Marilah kita semua memberikan komitmen untuk menjadikan perpaduan keutamaan bersama demi kestabilan masa depan negara.

15. Akhir kata, saya sekali lagi ingin mengucapkan terima kasih kepada semua pihak yang bertungkus-lumus menganjurkan majlis ini. Saya doakan agar kempen yang murni ini mencapai objektif yang dihasratkan, Insya-Allah. Dengan lafaz Bismillahirrahmanirrahim, saya dengan sukacitanya merasmikan Kempen #SaySomethingNice tahun 2023 dengan tema ‘Stay MEASURED to move forward’.

Sekian, Wabillahitaufik Walhidayah Wassalamualaikum Warahmatulahi Wabarakatuh. Terima kasih.

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Last Updated: 14 August 2023

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SPEECH BY

YAB DATO’ SRI HAJI FADILLAH BIN HAJI YUSOF

DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER OF MALAYSIA

AND

MINISTER OF PLANTATION AND COMMODITIES

4TH INTERNATIONAL INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE CONFERENCE

&

INAUGURAL ASIAN CONGRESS ON KRATOM

12 August 2023 (Saturday)

Ballroom, Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur

Bismillahirrahmanirrahim.

Assalamualaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh,

His Excellency, Dr. Joachim Bergström

Ambassador of Sweden,

Dr. Janethy Balakrishnan

President, Association of Integrative Medicine of Malaysia,

Mr. Nils Bokström

Founder and CEO of Integrative Conferences,

The Organizing Committee members,

Members of the Media, and

Distinguished Guests

Ladies and Gentlemen,

1. On behalf of the Government and people of Malaysia, I extend a warm welcome and offer the traditional Malaysian greeting of "Selamat Datang" to all distinguished Speakers and Delegates gathered here from around the world for the 4th International Integrative Medicine Conference and Inaugural Asian Congress on Kratom.

2. It is an honor and exemplary to recognize the Association of Integrative Medicine Malaysia (AIMM) for its visionary role in uniting allopathic and non-allopathic medical practitioners to address present and future healthcare challenges.

3. This milestone marks the inaugural Asian Kratom Congress in Malaysia, a collaboration between esteemed institutions: Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), University Malaya Center for Drug Addiction (UMCAS), and the Commonwealth Medical Association.

4. My heartiest congratulations are in order for AIMM, the pioneering medical association in Malaysia that offers education and certification to medical practitioners and stakeholders. This commitment aligns seamlessly with the theme of this year's conference: "Primum non Nocere" or "First Do No Harm", emphasizing education and safety as its pillar.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

5. At the Ministry of Plantations and Commodities, the comprehensive National Agricommodity Policy 2021-2030 outlines the strategies required to steer Malaysia's sustainable growth in the agricultural sector by focusing on competitiveness, environmental sustainability, and social inclusivity.

6. A cornerstone of this policy is the development of new commodities to drive sectoral growth, an endeavor that benefits from dedicated resources, incentives, and strategic investments, thereby supporting the nation's economic-socio progress.

7. Beyond economic significance, Malaysia's commodities sector plays a crucial role in securing the world's food supply chain. Notably, our palm oil and cocoa are integral ingredients in various food products which are produced responsibly and sustainably.

8. Therefore, turning our attention to kratom, its utilization in Malaysia is carefully governed by stringent laws and policies. Hence, the development of kratom, a tropical plant known for its medicinal properties that contains psychoactive alkaloids into an industry must be balanced with its potential benefits and risk. As such, Malaysia employs a multifaceted approach involving regulation, research, and community engagement which will have serious implications that creates havoc for the society and nation.

9. The legal framework in place in the governing of kratom encompasses the Poisons Act 1952 and Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 which imposes rigorous controls on cultivation, possession, and sale. These measures safeguard public health, prevent misuse, and encourage responsible usage at all levels.

10. In parallel, the government's commitment to scientific research underscores its dedication to informed decisionmaking. Through investments in botany, pharmacology, and medicine, Malaysia seeks a comprehensive understanding of kratom's properties and applications which can be turned into a lucrative commodity industry.

11. The strategic approach to kratom underscores Malaysia's pursuit of both cultural preservation and economic advancement. The nation's holistic strategy involves all stakeholders, balancing progress with heritage.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

12. As we move forward, the Government of Malaysia remains committed to data-driven decision-making, adapting regulations as needed to harmonize economic progress and citizen wellbeing.

13. It is vital to acknowledge the challenges of kratom implementation, including regulation and prevention of misuse. AIMM's initiative in assembling esteemed speakers with extensive expertise is commendable and encouraging.

14. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to AIMM and the organizing committees for their tireless efforts in organising this momentous Inaugural Asian Kratom Congress, a testament to their dedication and hard work.

15. With this, I am honored to officiate the 4th International Integrative Medicine Conference and Inaugural Asian Kratom Congress, marking a pivotal step in advancing healthcare and scientific understanding.

Thank you