Commercializing Agro-Based R&D in Malaysia: A Case Study of "Break and Protect 2", a Marine Leech Trap

Abstract

Commercialization of R&D products by Government Research Institutions (GRI) in Malaysia is still modest, particularly in agro-based R&D. Furthermore, information sharing of the commercialization experience by GRIs or academia is also very scarce and not helping at all. Hence, this article is prepared to describe the Fisheries Research Institute, Department of Fisheries experience in commercializing our first aquaculture R&D technology, i.e., a device to combat marine leech (an ectoparasite) infestations in marine fish culture, named ‘Break and Protect 2’ (BP2). The marine leech poses a significant challenge to optimal aquaculture production in Southeast Asian countries. BP2 has been proven to decrease marine leech infestation levels and safeguard the marine environment through minimizing chemical use, offering an eco-friendly solution crucial for sustainable aquaculture. In 2020, this technology was licensed to a local aquaculture products company and available in the market in 2022. Critical factors that assisted in the commercialization of BP2 were good partnership with licensee and users, significant selling points, government support and ownership of intellectual property rights.  The issues that hindered the commercialization and way forward are also highlighted.