Malaysia has traditionally been an agriculture-based nation. Even today, its plantation sector is a major contributor to the gross national income. At the turn of the millennium, there were ominous portents for food supplies worldwide. Natural disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis and tropical storms as well as droughts have resulted in a lingering global food supply crisis.

Nanobiotechnology can help increase agricultural productivity, boost pest-resistance and improve food quality. Considering the global outlook in the food and agriculture sector, the application of nanotechnology may avert a major food crisis worldwide.