BASF and MARDI introduce new Clearfield® rice varieties MR CL3 and MR CL4 to advance sustainable farming in Malaysia
- Clearfield® Production System is a non-genetically modified (non-GM) crop technology developed by BASF that integrates specially bred herbicide-tolerant seeds with tailored TREK® herbicide and stewardship practices
- BASF solutions will support farmers to combat weedy rice challenges and support yields beyond seven tons per hectare
- New rice varieties align with Malaysia’s “Five Times in Two Years” planting program and SMART SBB, reinforcing BASF’s commitment to innovation
Seberang Perak, July 14, 2025 — BASF (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., in strategic partnership with the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI), proudly unveils two new Clearfield® rice varieties – MR CL3 and MR CL4. This launch marks a significant milestone in agricultural innovation, reinforcing both organizations’ commitment to empowering Malaysian farmers through sustainable and resilient rice production technologies. Clearfield rice seeds are a non-transgenic, nongenetically modified crop technology for rice production developed with traditional plant-breeding techniques.
The launch event, held at FELCRA Seberang Perak, was officiated by Datuk Seri Haji Mohamad Bin Sabu, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security. Key stakeholders from across the rice industry, including FELCRA Berhad and other valued partners, were in attendance.
“The introduction of new rice varieties reflect the strength of strategic collaboration,” said Datuk Seri Haji Mohamad Bin Sabu. “This initiative not only delivers technology tailored to current challenges but also sets a benchmark for future partnerships in strengthening Malaysia’s rice industry.”
The Clearfield Production System, developed by BASF, offers farmers an integrated approach to combat weedy rice, enhance productivity, and integrates stewardship practices that support long-term sustainability. With yield potential exceeding seven tons per hectare and early maturity, MR CL3 and MR CL4 are well-suited for national initiatives such as the “Five Times in Two Years” planting program and SMART SBB (Smart Sawah Berskala Besar).
“BASF is delighted to launch our Clearfield Production System in Malaysia today and extends its sincere appreciation to MARDI, FELCRA Berhad, and all contributors to this initiative,” said Robert Upton, Business Management Southeast Asia, BASF Agricultural Solutions. “Together, we are shaping a resilient, self-sufficient future for Malaysia’s rice industry and achieve better yields for farmers, and the nation of Malaysia.”
The Ministry of Agriculture has recommended that MARDI and BASF coordinate with the Paddy Industry Development Division (BPIP), KPKM, to evaluate the system’s inclusion in the Certified Paddy Seed Incentive Scheme.
About BASF’s Agricultural Solutions division
Everything we do, we do for the love of farming. Farming is fundamental to provide enough healthy and affordable food for a rapidly growing population, while reducing environmental impacts. That’s why we are working with partners and experts to integrate sustainability criteria into all business decisions. With €919 million in 2024, we invest in a strong R&D pipeline, combining innovative thinking with practical action in the field. Our solutions are purpose-designed for different crop systems. Connecting seeds and traits, crop protection products, digital tools and sustainability approaches, to help deliver the best possible outcomes for farmers, growers and our other stakeholders along the value chain. With teams in the lab, field, office and in production, we do everything in our power to build a sustainable future for agriculture. In 2024, our division generated sales of €9.8 billion. For more information, please visit www.agriculture.basf.com or our social media channels.
About BASF in Malaysia
BASF has been present in Malaysia since 1989, and operates a manufacturing plant in Pasir Gudang, Johor. BASF’s Regional Service Hub in Kuala Lumpur provides functional support services to BASF companies in 20 markets across Asia Pacific. BASF also provides infrastructure and utilities support services to its joint ventures BASF PETRONAS Chemicals and Toray BASF Resins at an integrated Verbund site situated in the Gebeng Industrial Zone, Pahang. BASF posted sales to customers in Malaysia of approximately €340 million in 2024 and had 2,579 employees as of the end of the year. Further information is available on www.basf.com/my.
About BASF
At BASF, we create chemistry for a sustainable future. Our ambition: We want to be the preferred chemical company to enable our customers’ green transformation. We combine economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility. Around 112,000 employees in the BASF Group contribute to the success of our customers in nearly all sectors and almost every country in the world. Our portfolio comprises, as core businesses, the segments Chemicals, Materials, Industrial Solutions, and Nutrition & Care; our standalone businesses are bundled in the segments Surface Technologies and Agricultural Solutions. BASF generated sales of €65.3 billion in 2024. BASF shares are traded on the stock exchange in Frankfurt (BAS) and as American Depositary Receipts (BASFY) in the United States. Further information at www.basf.com.
