Malesiana Tropicals

Malesiana Tropicals, based in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia, is a laboratory and nursery facility devoted to the micropropagation of a variety of tropical plants. We specialize in unusual species from the Malesian region such as tropical pitcher plants (Nepenthes) and shield leaf plants (Alocasia). Malesiana Tropicals was established in 1998 with the goal of assisting in the preservation and conservation of the region's botanical diversity. Working closely with the Sarawak Forestry Corporation and Sarawak Biodiversity Centre, we have developed a large stock of CITES-certified laboratory-grown plants. The botanical richness of the Malesian region has always drawn plant collectors worldwide, many of whom illegally poach large numbers of wild plants for profit. The result of this has been a drastic reduction in some populations of rare species in their native habitat. This practice not only robs the people of the region of one of their rightful resources but it is also contrary to the CITES conventions concerning the trade of endangered plants and could in the long term result in the extinction of the plants in the wild. By making artificially propagated plants available within the region, we both ensure the reduction from wild collection, and guarantee employment earnings for the people of Sarawak.