Universiti Malaysia Sabah and Euglena Malaysia Launch Joint Research

Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) and Euglena Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. (Euglena Malaysia) have commenced a joint research project aimed at evaluating the efficacy of functional ingredients in the field of aquaculture, starting in April 2026.

This research will be advanced by leveraging the knowledge of the Euglena Group. Through research into functional ingredients derived from microalgae and next-generation aquaculture feed technology, the project aims to develop technologies that contribute to improving the health and productivity of farmed fish, thereby realizing sustainable aquaculture.

A research contract signing ceremony was held at UMS on June 29, 2026.

Representatives from UMS and Euglena Malaysia attended the ceremony, where they shared their recognition of the importance of promoting innovation, strengthening industry-academia collaboration, and contributing to food security and the blue economy in Malaysia.

Background and Objectives of the Joint Research

Against the backdrop of expanding global food demand, while production from natural fisheries remains stagnant, aquaculture production is rapidly increasing. In 2024, global fisheries and aquaculture production reached an all-time high. *

Aquaculture is positioned as a crucial industry to support future food supply. However, for further sustainable growth, it is essential to address challenges such as improving productivity, preventing fish diseases, and reducing environmental impact.

Against this backdrop, this joint research will explore the potential of applying microalgae-derived ingredients to feed to enhance productivity and health in aquaculture.

UMS possesses extensive research achievements as a core institution for marine fish aquaculture research in Malaysia, while Euglena Malaysia has expertise in the research, development, and industrial application of microalgae. This research will be an international joint effort that fuses the strengths of both organizations.

*Refer to the "Initiatives for Growth Industry Transformation in Aquaculture" feature in the "FY2025 White Paper on Fisheries" by the Fisheries Agency of Japan.

Overview of the Joint Research

This joint research will utilize UMS's research infrastructure in aquaculture, fish physiology, and immunology to conduct multifaceted evaluations of the effects of feed using microalgae-derived ingredients.

Specifically, focusing on improving immune function and feed efficiency, the research will comprehensively examine growth indicators, physiological status, and other aspects to explore the potential of functional feed in aquaculture.

The implementation of this research will also be supported by the technical and strategic expertise of Euglena Co., Ltd., drawing on its knowledge of the feed business, overseas expansion strategies, and its track record in microalgae feed research within Japan.

Comments

Takushi Ogura, Head of R&D, Euglena Malaysia / Executive Officer, Research and Development, Euglena Co., Ltd.

"Through this joint research, we aim to create new value from microalgae-derived ingredients and contribute to solving challenges in the aquaculture sector. We find it highly significant to be able to accumulate scientifically-backed knowledge through our collaboration with UMS."

Associate Professor Chin Hui Fung, Director, Borneo Marine Research Institute, Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS)

"This partnership reflects our shared commitment to driving aquaculture innovation through the application of microalgae biotechnology and scientific research. We are confident that this collaboration will yield meaningful outcomes for sustainable aquaculture, food security, and the development of the blue economy."

Future Outlook

Based on the knowledge gained from this joint research, we aim to contribute to the advancement and sustainability of aquaculture in the Asian region. In the future, we are also considering the development and social implementation of functional feed based on scientific evidence.

Furthermore, this research is directly linked to strengthening the development of functional feed for aquaculture within our Agri-business, and the results obtained are expected to be utilized as foundational data for the overseas expansion of the Euglena Group's feed business.

<Euglena Malaysia>

Euglena Malaysia is a company that promotes the research and development of microalgae and their industrial applications. As a member of the Euglena Group, it is developing applications in a wide range of fields, including food, feed, and biofuels.

<Universiti Malaysia Sabah>

UMS is a national university in Malaysia based in the Borneo region, which boasts world-class marine biodiversity. It promotes aquaculture and marine research, and its research is highly regarded both domestically and internationally in the fields of aquaculture and marine research in Southeast Asia.