Science that Helps Agriculture and Small Farmers

At Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Prof. Ir. Ts. Dr. Suraya Abdul Rashid, a chemical engineer and nanotechnologist, spent nearly a decade studying carbon nanomaterials. Around 2016, she found that carbon quantum dots, particles measuring just a few nanometres across, could significantly enhance photosynthesis in plants. Collaborators were excited by the potential, describing it as an unprecedented improvement in photosynthetic efficiency. Suraya patented the technology, secured a market validation grant from UPM, and tested the product with neighbours, gathering testimonials and field data. Encouraging results prompted action from Dr. Suraya. In 2018, she incorporated Qarbotech, bringing both the intellectual property and the scientific authority to stand behind the claims the company would make.