Sains Malaysiana 40(12)(2011): i

 Message from the Vice-Chancellor

The year 2011 marks two important milestones for Sains Malaysiana. It is the 40^th anniversary of the journal since its inception in 1972. In addition, it has been successful in obtaining its first Impact Factor in Journal Citation Index/Science Edition (IF = 0.152).

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the authors and referees who have contributed to this journal. I also wish to thank the International Advisory board members who have been kind enough to share their experience in putting the journal on the international scene. I would also thank all the Editors who have worked tirelessly to make this publication into a premier science and technology journal in this region. These milestones would not have been possible without their commitment and dedication.

Situated in one of the world’s richest biodiversity region, Malaysia is poised to produce many novel and interesting research findings. This uniqueness has been fully explored by researchers who have used Sains Malaysiana is the ideal platform for sharing these natural wonders and treasures with the rest of the world.

This 12^th and last issue of the 40^th volume consists of six invited papers written by members of the International Advisory Board and the editors. Researchers worldwide contributed another eleven papers. Sains Malaysiana has indeed become a truly global forum for the dissemination of scientific research results. I hope the readers will enjoy reading this issue and find it useful in their research work.

It is my sincere hope that the modest Impact Factor will ignite the journal’s growth to a larger authorship and readership.

Thank you.

Sharifah Hapsah Syed Hasan Shahabudin (Prof. Tan Sri Dato’ Wira Dr)

Vice-Chancellor

Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia