The world crude oil price is now the talk of the town. From the man on the street to leaders of big business, the escalating oil price has generated so much concern that even the Beijing Olympics scheduled in August has taken a back seat as far as media publicity goes. In Malaysia, the government has taken the bold decision to increase the pump price of fuel by more than 70 sen a litre. It is a move that has received mixed reactions from the public at large. Some grumbled because of the impact it may have on the prices of other essentials. But quite a sizable number applaud the move arguing that the artificially low price of the past has led to much wastage. Now that people are more aware of the real value of fuel, albeit still subsidised, over time they may be judicious in their usage. So far the world price has moved past $130 per barrel. But experts are saying, this may touch $200 in the coming months.

In this issue of Symbiosis, we are taking a look at renewable energy options, especially on how they can be deployed to soften the pressure on the economy arising from the high fossil price. Over the years, much development has taken place in improving the many renewable energy technologies. But I am sure many agree the renewed interest in the alternative to fossil has come at the right time. Recent data has reaffirmed the other growing concern of the world; climate change. Many countries have now begun taking issues on climate change more seriously. We now hear of more active deliberations by governments discussing possible ways to arrest the increase in greenhouse gas levels in the atmosphere. Since the burning of fossils has been identified as the principal source of the green house gas emissions, there is now talk of either absorbing the emissions or deploying other means to generate power using renewables.

Talking about renewables, R&D will no doubt to continue to feature prominently in the coming years. This is to further improve the viability and the economics of such options. Related to this, this issue will also publish an interview with our new Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI), Datuk Dr Maximus Ongkili. He will enlighten us on his plans to get MOSTI to address the country’s technology agenda on renewable energy as well as other issues on R&D commercialisation, and the targets set for the nation to create wealth through science and technology.

As usual the issue includes articles on technology matters concerning cyber security, the global food crisis and how genetic engineering can play a role, as well as others. This time around, we are inviting readers to express their views on the topics we have selected. We welcome new constructive suggestions as to how we can further improve the magazine. We will also have a prize for the best idea. We hope readers will share with us their opinions and views.

Dato’ Hj. Mohd Azman Shahidin
President/CEO,Technology Park Malaysia