The Ministry of Science and Technology – Bangsamoro Standards and Halal Testing Laboratories (MOST-BSHTL) personnel recently underwent intensive training on the Validation of Lyophilized qPCR Kit in partnership with the Universiti Putra Malaysia – Halal Products Research Institute (UPM-HPRI).

The four-day training, held from February 29 to March 3, 2024 at MOST-BSHTL Office, aimed to enhance the skills of the laboratory personnel and validate the reproducibility of the qPCR kit developed by the UPM-HPRI team.

Led by Dr. Nur Fadhilah Khairil Mokhtar and Dr. Nurhidayatul Asma Mohamad of UPM-HPRI, the training covered various aspects of the qPCR kit, with a focus on its application in the Halal verification process. The invaluable knowledge and expertise shared by the UPM team are expected to significantly benefit the Halal Verification Laboratory (HVL) team at MOST-BSHTL.

Rugaya Abdullah-Magandia, Chief Science Research Specialist – Designate at MOST-BSHTL, expressed gratitude for the valuable insights gained during the training. The modifications to the DNA extraction workflow for gelatin-based products were particularly highlighted for enhancing technical feasibility. Abdullah-Magandia looks forward to potential future collaborations with UPM, anticipating further advancements in science and technology.

The training covered sample preparation for 23 diverse products, including meat-based items, mallows, and gummies, along with hands-on activities in DNA extraction, quantification, qPCR analysis, and theoretical lectures. Successful modifications to the DNA extraction workflow were achieved, addressing challenges posed by gelatin-based products.

This collaboration between MOST-BSHTL and UPM-HPRI aims to provide a cost-efficient and sensitive method for Halal detection while promoting Halal awareness, especially in the Bangsamoro region. The partnership signifies a commitment to advancing scientific research and technology, contributing to improved Halal verification processes in the region.