Malaysian groups oppose proposed GMO rice field trial

A coalition of 61 organizations, including farmers, consumer associations, and environmental groups, is urging Malaysia’s National Biosafety Board to reject a proposed field trial of genetically modified (GM) rice. The application, submitted by Zen Cropscience, seeks to conduct a confined trial in northern Perak state using a modified version of the MR219 rice variety. This specific strain is designed to be resistant to bacteria and fungi and tolerant to the herbicide glyphosate.

The coalition expressed several primary concerns, most notably the risk of GM material contaminating conventional and wild rice varieties through cross-pollination. They also argued that current Malaysian biosafety laws lack sufficient legal protections and compensation mechanisms for farmers facing economic losses due to accidental contamination.

Additional concerns raised by the groups include the potential for increased glyphosate use, which could lead to the development of herbicide-resistant “super weeds,” and the possibility that genetic modifications could alter nutritional values or increase allergen and toxin levels in the food supply. Abdul Rashid Yob, head of a major farmers association, noted that previous experiences with herbicide-tolerant crops led to increased production costs and degraded soil fertility.