CONGRATULATIONS ASSOC. PROF. DR. LEE CHEE KEONG SPONSOR BY IDEMITSU KOSAN CO., LTD

Photosynthetic bacteria (PSB), particularly purple non-sulfur bacteria (PNSB), represent a promising microbial group with diverse applications in sustainable agriculture, aquaculture, waste treatment, and bio-based industries. Their ability to utilize light energy and metabolize organic substrates under anaerobic conditions makes them suitable candidates for biofertilizer production, bioremediation, and bioresource recovery. Despite their demonstrated benefits and global interest, the commercialization of PSB-based products in Malaysia remains limited. This study aims to investigate the business potential of PSB in Malaysia by focusing on three main objectives: (1) to isolate and identify promising PSB strains for business, (2) to study the business potential of photosynthetic bacteria in Malaysia, and (3) to obtain an image of the inter-company framework for local production.

The research begins with the isolation and characterization of novel PSB strains from marine environments across Penang. Selective culturing under anaerobic, illuminated conditions will be conducted, followed by morphological and biochemical characterization as well as molecular identification (16S rRNA). Promising isolates will undergo optimization to maximize biomass yield under varying environmental parameters. In conjunction with laboratory experiments, market research will be conducted through stakeholder engagement, competitor analysis, and feasibility studies to assess regulatory pathways, pricing, and industry acceptance. Lastly, a comprehensive mapping of Malaysia’s microbial product supply chain will identify key players, existing gaps, and potential collaborations to support a local PSB industry.

This study is expected to highlight novel PSB strains with high potential industrial application, outline economic viability for PSB commercialization. With the right strain selection and business model, Malaysia can lead the way in PSB-based applications aligned with Malaysia’s environmental sustainability and circular bioeconomy goals. The outcomes will facilitate the transition from research to application, enabling Malaysia to harness PSB for agricultural productivity, waste valorization, and green technology innovation.