SERDANG, 1 August – Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) continues to solidify its role as a regional veterinary reference hub through the organisation of the Southeast Asia Mycoplasmosis Workshop 2025, a two-day event held at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (FPV), UPM. The program brought together over 90 experts, veterinary practitioners, and poultry farmers from 10 countries, including Thailand, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and China, in a collective effort to tackle the growing threat of mycoplasmosis in the poultry industry.

The workshop focused on the bacteria Mycoplasma gallisepticum and Mycoplasma synoviae, which have been identified as major threats to chicken and duck health, particularly in terms of productivity and immune system efficiency. These infections cause damage to the respiratory system and joints of the animals, indirectly affecting egg production and livestock growth rates, and potentially disrupting the nation’s protein supply chain.

Jointly organised by the Institute of Bioscience (IBS) and FPV UPM, with sponsorship support from ECO Animal Health Ltd., the workshop was designed to provide participants with comprehensive exposure to strategic control approaches for mycoplasmosis. Through a combination of lectures and hands-on laboratory sessions, participants gained insights into effective sampling methodologies, the use of modern diagnostic technologies, and data-driven treatment strategies.

According to the workshop chairperson and IBS Director, Prof. Dr. Zunita Zakaria, mycoplasmosis often escapes serious attention despite its significant impact on layer hen populations. She further explained that the complex nature of the bacteria makes detection and control efforts challenging, especially in large-scale farming systems that require constant monitoring.

IBS is currently actively mapping the prevalence of these bacteria at selected poultry farms nationwide as an initial step towards targeted solutions. Early findings have indicated a rise in Mycoplasma synoviae infections, which may significantly affect farmers’ economic returns. The research outcomes are expected to support the development of more effective treatment protocols.

In line with IBS’s role as a Higher Education Centre of Excellence (HICoE) in animal vaccines and therapeutics, efforts are also focused on studying antimicrobial effectiveness through scientific approaches and industry collaboration. Field data collected serve as the basis for proposing treatment policies and more sustainable disease control action plans.

With a strong emphasis on the integration of research, education, and high-impact training, this workshop reflects UPM’s ongoing commitment to contributing to the sustainability of the regional livestock industry. The initiative also aligns with the national food security agenda by strengthening technical and diagnostic capacities among local veterinary professionals.

Date of Input: 04/08/2025 | Updated: 04/08/2025 | zafarul