17/03/2026
This meeting marked the second RMK-13 monitoring session for 2026, focusing on project status evaluation and the initiation of the early technical phase for cocoa product traceability using nuclear science. Key discussions covered the standardisation of sampling methods, planning of the proof of concept (PoC) to verify geographical origin, and a feasibility study assessing infrastructure readiness and technical expertise.
05/03/2026
The JKCK MAS Meeting No. 1/2026 was held in hybrid mode on 5 March 2026 and attended by an LKM representative. Chaired by Dr. Vanitha Kunalan, the meeting involved representatives from various agencies. Discussions focused on reviewing documents and members’ comments to align Malaysia’s position on food analysis and sampling methods at the international Codex level. It was noted that the topic “Cocoa products and chocolate workable package” was not discussed in this meeting.
27/02/2026
A meeting was held on 27 February 2026 in Bangi to discuss the MoA for research collaboration between the Malaysian Cocoa Board (LKM) and the Malaysian Nuclear Agency. The meeting was chaired by the Director General of ANM and attended by representatives from both organisations. Discussions focused on the scope of collaboration, areas of involvement, and the direction of research implementation for mutual benefit.
09/02/2026
Approval from the ICT Project Steering Committee (JPICT) of the Ministry of Plantation and Commodities is sought for the development of a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) at the Analytical Services Laboratory, PITK Nilai. The project aims to transform laboratory management from manual processes to a fully web-based digital system, covering automated sample registration, data entry, and Certificate of Analysis (COA) generation. The system enhances efficiency, reduces human error through instrument integration, and strengthens data integrity and compliance with quality standards.
05/02/2026
The Analytical Services Laboratory (ASL), Malaysian Cocoa Board held its first quarterly meeting on 5 February 2026 to strengthen the implementation of the ISO 17025:2017 Quality System. The meeting discussed laboratory planning and activities, including quality management, sample handling, equipment, personnel, and RMK-13 development projects.
26-27/01/2026
This programme consolidates the analytical capabilities of food laboratories under the Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH), related agencies, and relevant institutions to develop a Five-Year Food Analysis Method Development Plan (2026–2031), aligned with the National Holistic Framework for Food Analysis Laboratories. The plan serves as a strategic reference to optimise resources and expertise, minimise duplication of method development, and strengthen the overall national food analysis capacity.
19/01/2026
A strategic discussion between the Malaysian Cocoa Board (LKM) and the Surveillance Branch, Food Safety and Quality Programme (PKKM), Ministry of Health Malaysia was held in Nilai on 19 January 2026 to strengthen technical collaboration and review the current status of heavy metals in cocoa products. The discussion focused on planning monitoring activities for lead and cadmium contamination in cocoa powder and cocoa products in the Malaysian market to ensure food safety in line with international Codex Standards.
09/01/2026
The Deputy Secretary-General (P), YBrs. Dr. Sharifah Adlina bt. Syed Abdullah conducted a working visit to PITK Nilai, including a visit to the Analytical Services Laboratory. She was briefed on the laboratory’s functions, types of samples received from the cocoa industry, and the analyses conducted, including quality, food safety, and sensory analysis.
08/01/2026
LKM received a courtesy visit from a CAA delegation represented by Ms. Shirley Ruth Choo and Ms. Lau Han Ching. The delegation was welcomed by Dr. Albert Ling Sheng Chang and senior officers from LKM and the Analytical Services Laboratory. Discussions focused on the issue of cocoa powder contamination with cocoa shells, particularly products originating from China, and the need for more precise analytical methods compared to the conventional AOAC microscopic method.
16/12/2025
Several members of the Analytical Services Laboratory visited the National Centre for Food Safety (NCFS), Ministry of Health Malaysia, Sepang. The visit was hosted by Ms. Jamilah Salikin, Deputy Director of NCFS, and began with a briefing on the establishment and activities of NCFS. This was followed by a laboratory tour showcasing facilities involved in food quality and safety analysis.
09/12/2025
Several officers from the Analytical Services Laboratory visited the Food Safety Laboratory, Malaysian Palm Oil Board to gain exposure to Mineral Oil (MOAH/MOSH) analysis, particularly on the use of LC-GC-FID instrumentation. The visit was hosted by Dr. Maznah Zainol, Research Officer from the Food Safety Unit.
08/12/2025
A demonstration of Near Infrared (NIR) laboratory equipment by Buchi (M) Sdn Bhd was conducted for proximate analysis, including fat, ash, fiber, and moisture content. The use of NIR equipment offers a rapid analytical method, particularly suitable for chocolate production areas such as Chocolate Royale. This method may be applied as a secondary analytical technique to support the primary accredited analytical methods at the Analytical Services Laboratory.
04/12/2025
A technical meeting was held at the Malaysian Nuclear Agency, attended by the Director of the Regulatory and Quality Control Division, an Economist, and Research Officers from the Cocoa Biotechnology Division and the Cocoa Downstream Technology Division. The meeting aimed to discuss the direction of the RMK-13 project on the development of traceability for dried cocoa beans using nuclear technology (stable isotopes). Key discussions included the number and types of samples, analysis costs, manpower requirements, and equipment involved. The meeting was chaired by Dr. Zaiton Ahmad.
03/12/2025
A discussion was held between cocoa farmer Mr. Praveen Ramalingam and LKM officers to evaluate cocoa bean quality produced using three drying techniques: conventional, solar dome, and hybrid (solar dome + conventional). Chemical analysis showed comparable results for free fatty acid, fat content, and total polyphenol across all methods. However, sensory analysis indicated that the hybrid technique achieved the highest Global Quality score (6.2), followed by solar dome (5.8) and conventional (5.6). Acidity and bitterness were similar for all techniques, while the cocoa attribute was highest for the hybrid method (5.1).
12/11/2025
The Cocoa Downstream Technology Division conducted a visit to Agilent Technologies Sdn Bhd in Damansara on 12 November 2025, attended by 14 officers. The visit was hosted by the General Manager, Ms. Yan Kah Leng, and included exposure to the latest LC-MS/MS, GC-MS/MS, and ICP-MS/MS technologies for pesticide residue, mycotoxin, fumigant, and heavy metal analysis, followed by live demonstrations of GC-MS/MS and LC-MS/MS laboratory instruments.
30/10/2025
An online coordination meeting for the RKB (Bureaucratic Reform) project was held on 30 October 2025, chaired by Dr. Ngan Chai Keong of MARDI and attended by representatives from the Malaysian Cocoa Board, Malaysian Pepper Board, and the Department of Chemistry Malaysia. The meeting focused on inter-agency collaboration for pesticide residue analysis, including sharing analytical methods, pesticide active ingredients, and available analytical services.
15/10/2025
A consultation session for the Draft Malaysian Standard 2672 on dried cocoa bean specifications was held on 15 October 2025 at Hotel Sama Sama, Sepang. The session aimed to gather feedback on DMS 2672 Cocoa Beans – Specification (First Revision), developed by the Working Group on Cocoa Bean Specification (NSC 01/WG 4). The session was officiated by YBrs. En. See Chee Kong, Director General of the Department of Standards Malaysia.
06-09/10/2025
A Cocoa and Chocolate Product Handling Course was conducted from 6–9 October 2025, during which a representative from the Analytical Services Laboratory delivered a talk titled “Quality Control: Chemical and Microbiological Analysis.” The session covered analytical methods for cocoa beans and cocoa products related to food safety, quality assessment, and nutritional facts. Relevant local and international regulatory requirements were also discussed
12/09/2025
A visit fron KPSU of the Cocoa and Pepper Industry Division, Ministry of Plantation and Commodities, to the Cocoa Innovation and Technology Centre (PITK), Nilai.
10/09/2025
Short Sharing for topic ICP, IC and AAS standard/CRM solution
09/09/2025
Short Sharing for topic product introduction (Proximate Analysis: Protein, Fat, & FibeROC system for Fiber & ADF)
08/09/2025
A Management Review Meeting for the Analytical Services Laboratory was held on 8 September 2025 at the Cocoa Innovation and Technology Centre, Nilai. The meeting reviewed outstanding issues, customer feedback, resource adequacy, and the Internal Audit report dated 2 September 2025, which identified 5 non-conformances and 2 observations. Other matters discussed included the proposed revision of analysis fees, appointment of new report signatories, implementation of RT-PCR for microbiological testing, and equipment procurement planning for 2026. Corrective actions will be taken to address the noted risk assessment findings.
02/09/2025
An internal audit was conducted at the Analytical Services Laboratory to evaluate the laboratory’s compliance with the MS ISO/IEC 17025:2017 standard and to assess the effectiveness of the implemented quality management system. The audit covered both chemical and microbiological testing activities, including the evaluation of personnel competency, equipment (Clause 6), testing procedures (Clause 7), and management systems (Clause 8).
The audit was carried out by the following audit team:
Name
Role
Dr. Azila Ab. Karim - Lead Assessor
Dr. Samuel Yap Kian Chee - Technical Assessor (Chemistry)
Dr. Ishak Zubir - Technical Assessor (Microbiology)
Puan Rosmawati Mat Shair - Observer
Audit Findings:
Non-Conformance (NC):
A total of five (5) non-conformances were identified. Corrective actions are required to be taken within the specified time frame to ensure ongoing compliance with the MS ISO/IEC 17025:2017 standard.
Observations:
Two (2) observations were recorded for attention and further improvement of operational efficiency and quality assurance controls.
The laboratory has acknowledged the findings and will implement the necessary corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) as part of continuous improvement of the quality management system.
25-26/08/2025
The Expert Working Group Workshop on Setting Maximum Residue Limits (MRL) for Pesticides in Agricultural Commodities was held on 25–26 August 2025 at MPC, Johor Bahru. The workshop focused on evaluating proposals for ASEAN MRL harmonization, product registration in Malaysia based on MRLs, and import MRL applications.
20/08/2025
A delegation from USIM visited the Analytical Service Laboratory on 20 August 2025. The visit began with an introduction to the lab’s functions and key activities, followed by a detailed explanation of the types of samples analyzed and the lab’s role in supporting research and operations. The delegation then toured the laboratory facilities to observe state-of-the-art scientific equipment and complex analytical procedures routinely performed.
19/08/2025
A delegation from Angkasa, led by PM Dato' Dr. Abdul Rahman Abdul Razak Shaik, visited the Analytical Service Laboratory on 19 August 2025. The visit began with an introduction to the lab’s core functions and critical activities, followed by a detailed briefing on the types of samples analyzed and the lab’s role in supporting research and essential operations. The delegation then toured the laboratory facilities to observe state-of-the-art scientific equipment and complex analytical procedures. The visit provided PM Dato' Dr. Abdul Rahman and his delegation the opportunity to witness firsthand the technical expertise and capabilities of the Analytical Service Laboratory.
05-08/08/2025
The “Pesticide Risk Assessment” Workshop was held from 5 to 8 August 2025 in Putrajaya. The four-day program focused on Residue Field Studies, MRL estimation and establishment, and Dietary Risk Assessment. Participants were introduced to Malaysia’s existing residue study structure, definitions of residues, and dossier quality components. Practical sessions covered residue data evaluation, MRL estimation for processed foods, and chronic and acute dietary risk assessments through group exercises. The final day emphasized MRL setting principles, crop grouping, and extrapolation, concluding with a summary and closing remarks.
04/08/2025
The Analytical Services Laboratory (ASL) Meeting No. 1/2025 discussed corrections to the previous minutes and arising matters, including proposed amendments to the Analysis Application Form. In line with ISO 17025 Quality System, the chair directed the preparation of new protocols for Karl Fisher and Free Fatty Acids (FFA) analysis. Other key issues included harmonizing ASL analysis costs, procurement planning for new equipment (chiller, incubator, SHAQER 1600), and actions to address seven non-conformities (NCRs) identified during the internal audit, including the microbiology lab’s air-conditioning issue. The 2025 annual financial report and details of the Malaysian Premium Cocoa Bean Validation Project were also presented.
01/08/2025
The Food Legal Advisory Committee (JPPM) Meeting No. 2/2025 reviewed follow-up actions from the previous meeting and progress on approved regulatory amendments. The main focus was to confirm several critical amendments presented by the Expert Working Committee. Confirmed amendments included Regulation 391 on cereal-based foods for infants and young children, as well as updates to the Sixteenth Schedule (Pesticide Residues) and Fifteenth A Schedule (Veterinary Drug Residues) under the Food Regulations 1985, aimed at strengthening food safety standards.
30/07/2025
ASL members attended the Workshop on Fungi and Mycotoxin Management in Cocoa Beans at the Cocoa Research & Development Centre, Bagan Datuk. The workshop, co-organized by TOTE, USM, and JKM Penang, featured presentations by Dr. Masratul Hawa, Dr. Leong Yin Hui (USM), and Dr. Nor Shifa (JKM).
21-23/07/2025
The Development Workshop for MS 2672 was held in Cameron Highlands with participation from LKM officers, industry, and relevant government agencies. The workshop discussed adding a new grade to the premium cocoa bean specification (SMC-1 to SMC-3). The draft MS 2672 will proceed to the Public Review stage in August 2025.
16-17/07/2025
Ms. Aznie Aida from ASL attended the Technical Working Group on Mycotoxins Meeting No. 1/2025 at the Veterinary Public Health Laboratory (MKAV), Salak Tinggi. The lab presented its activities on mycotoxin analysis in cocoa beans and products, followed by knowledge-sharing sessions from Aracehm Sdn Bhd, Premier Diagnostic Sdn Bhd, and Team Medical & Scientific Sdn Bhd on the latest mycotoxin analysis technologies.
14-15/07/2025
Two ASL officers, Ms. Hannim Haffeza and Dr. Shahirah, served as trainers for the Cocoa Grading and Grader Accreditation Course held on 14–15 July 2025 at PITK, Nilai. The course was attended by staff from the Regulatory and Quality Control Division as well as participants from industry and government agencies.
14-19/07/2025
An ASL representative participated in the 50th WCC at KLCC, presenting a poster on analyses related to the Malaysian Premium Cocoa Bean Validation Program. Concurrently, Lab Asia, the largest laboratory equipment exhibition in Southeast Asia with over 500 local and international companies, was also held.
10/07/2025
ASL received a visit from Dr. Tan Suat Cheng and postgraduate student Ms. Asmaa’ from USM Health Campus, Kubang Kerian. The visit included a briefing, laboratory tour, and discussion on natural product analysis using LC-QTOF-MS.
07-08/07/2025
ASL and Chocolate Royale received a visit from TACCO President, Mr. Bordin Charoenpongchai of Thailand. The visit included an introduction to the lab’s functions and a presentation on praline and panned chocolate production by Mr. Bilal. This collaboration is expected to strengthen Malaysia–Thailand bilateral ties and enhance cocoa industry development in Southeast Asia.
03/07/2025
ASL and Chocolate Royale received a visit from TACCO President, Mr. Bordin Charoenpongchai of Thailand. The visit included an introduction to the lab’s functions and a presentation on praline and panned chocolate production by Mr. Bilal. This collaboration is expected to strengthen Malaysia–Thailand bilateral ties and enhance cocoa industry development in Southeast Asia.
19-20/06/2025
ASL underwent a Surveillance audit by the Department of Standards Malaysia, conducted by Ms. Ng Pui Wan, Mr. Ho Peng Hee and Dr. Raymond Choo Pow Yoon. The audit resulted in 3 Category 2 NCs and 5 Category 3 NCs, with the laboratory committed to corrective actions within 3 months.
05/06/2025
An LKM representative attended an online preparatory meeting on 5 June 2025 for the 18th Session of the Codex Committee on Contaminants in Foods (CCCF18), held physically on 23–27 June 2025 in Bangkok, Thailand.
16/05/2025
A workshop was held to review six MS under the Technical Committee on Cocoa & Chocolate Products (NSC 21/TC 1) that have exceeded five years since publication, ensuring their continued relevance. The workshop was attended by five LKM officers.
06-07/05/2025
The Pesticide Residue KKT Group Meeting No. 1/2025 was held on 6–7 May 2025 at PITK, Nilai, attended by 20 officers from various agencies. The meeting discussed current food analysis issues, laboratory activities, and method development, along with a knowledge-sharing session by a PAL representative on laboratory automation methods in chemical analysis.
23-25/04/2025
The 17th National Food Security and Nutrition Council (MKMPK) meeting agreed to implement the National Food Analysis Laboratory Holistic Framework over the next 10 years to strengthen food analysis capacity. A refinement meeting was subsequently held to enhance its core strategies before submission to the Cabinet for approval.
18/04/2025
An officer from ASL attended an online preparatory meeting on 18 April 2025 to discuss matters related to the 44th Session of the Codex Committee on Methods of Analysis and Sampling (CCMAS44), scheduled to be held in Budapest, Hungary on 5–8 May 2025.
15/04/2025
Four staff members from ASL attended the Standard and Customized Certified Reference Material for ICP, AAS and IC seminar organized by Inorganic Ventures on 15 April 2025 at Hotel Moxy Putrajaya. The seminar highlighted the use of CRMs for instrument calibration to ensure accurate and reliable analytical results.
05/03/2025
The National Centre for Food Safety (NCFS), led by Ts. Hj. Mohd Khairuddin Mohd Talib with 11 officers, visited the Cocoa Innovation & Technology Centre, Nilai. As a MOH agency ensuring food safety through scientific data, the visit aimed to explore services such as food analysis, data management and cocoa product development, as well as potential collaboration in food safety research.
Network Foods Industries Sdn Bhd, led by COO Mr. Christopher and Ms. Mae Lee, visited to discuss collaboration on sourcing premium cocoa beans and developing local single origin chocolate products.
13/02/2025
ASL organized a Laboratory Automation Workshop conducted by Ms. Gwen from PAL, Switzerland. The workshop introduced the latest automated chemical analysis technology, in line with the RMK-13 proposal for laboratory automation modernization in chemical and microbiological analysis at the Cocoa Innovation & Technology Centre, Nilai.
23/01/2025
ASL received a visit from Ms. Asmi Roa of Miss Cocoa, a chocolatier company behind the Alba Chocolatier brand, based in Hotel Everly and Bukit Bintang, which sources local single origin cocoa beans. The visit was welcomed by Dr. Fisal Ahmad and Mr. Mohamed Yusof Ishak.
ASL conducted an interlaboratory test on ochratoxin A in dried cocoa beans with the National Public Health Laboratory and the US FDA. The objective was to establish an Assigned Value for developing a Reference Material, which will be used as a Quality Control sample to ensure accuracy and reliability in mycotoxin analysis.
17/01/2025
ASL has sent 5 top cocoa samples from Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak to Rome for the Cacao of Excellence 2026 competition, with the aim of showcasing and elevating the quality of Malaysian cocoa on the international stage.