BACKGROUND

Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) is a leading university in the niche area of ocean studies and aquatic resources. Located in a mangrove-lined shore fronting the South China Sea, UMT is  well-positioned to take on the research and development (R&D) programmes related to her niche area. This will, in turn, drive the sustainable harnessing of vast natural resources from the ocean and   other aquatic sources which is vital for wealth creation and   nation building. Based on those priorities, the Institute of Marine Biotechnology (IMB) was established in in 2006 to   spearhead the R&D&C activities in the area of marine biotechnology. IMB’s  establishment is in line with the country’s  effort to develop biotechnology as one of the core sectors to generate economic growth and enhance societal well-being in accordance to the National Biotechnology policy.