HYSIA had an inspiring week at Pesticon 2025, held at the Adelaide Convention Centre — the premier pest management conference organised by the Australian Environmental Pest Managers Association (AEPMA).

The event brought together professionals from across the globe for a dynamic programme of collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and recognition of excellence in pest management. Our team engaged with industry leaders, explored cutting-edge technologies, and returned with insights that will strengthen the way we serve clients across Asia.

Representing HYSIA, Ms. Jo Lynn Teh, BCE, chaired the panel discussion Harnessing Technology for Pest Control – Transforming the Industry, which examined how AI-driven analytics, connected devices, and data-powered decision-making are reshaping the future of pest management.

Expert Panel Highlights

The discussion featured distinguished voices who shared practical innovations and first-hand experiences:

• Robert Boschma, Managing Director, Specialist Termite Control 
  • Demonstrated how AI productivity tools and business software help pest control operators streamline operations, issue digital service reports, monitor pest data, and integrate AI into marketing and CRM.
• Benjamin Dewit, Director, FUMAX Pty Ltd
  • Presented smart rodent systems, with case studies showing how connectivity and data insights improve precision and efficiency.
• Adam Carew-Reid, Chief Executive Officer, PestWest Australia
  • Showcased innovations in smart monitoring, reporting, and automation for flying insect control.

Key Insights on Technology Adoption

Despite the promise of digital tools, many professionals still hesitate to adopt new solutions. Common concerns include:

• Cost Considerations: Technology can feel expensive, especially at the start.
• Practical Know-How: Many are unsure how to integrate new tools into daily operations.
• Client Perception: Some worry that customers may not see the value in paying for tech-enabled services.
• Choosing the Right Tools: With so many options available, it’s difficult to know which solutions are best.

The panel emphasised several takeaways:

• Think Long-Term ROI: Upfront costs may seem high, but well-implemented technology improves efficiency and reduces long-term operational costs.
• Start Small: Begin with essential tools such as CRM systems before scaling into IoT or AI-powered platforms.
• Match Tech to Business Needs: Align technology with both business capacity and customer needs. The right customers are often already willing to pay for enhanced solutions.
• Stay agile: continuously evaluate new tools, learn from peers, and adapt to evolving industry shifts.

A Theme of Adaptability

The broader theme of Pesticon 2025 — Adapt and Thrive: Navigating Change in Pest Management — resonated throughout the conference. With pressures from climate change, evolving regulations, and emerging pest species, adaptability and innovation are no longer optional; they are essential for long-term resilience.

In line with this spirit of digitalisation, the panel piloted the conference app’s live Q&A feature — a first in Pesticon history. More than 20 thoughtful questions were submitted, fuelling discussion on real-world applications of AI, smart rodent systems, and intelligent ILTs. This strong engagement reflected an industry eager to explore future-ready solutions.

Special thanks to Bell Laboratories, Inc. for sponsoring the panel and supporting the advancement of digital tools in our industry.

At HYSIA, we cultivate curiosity, embrace innovation, and uphold best practices in pest management. Investing in continuous learning is not just a business choice — it is the foundation for delivering long-term results and safeguarding the communities we serve.

Wrapping up a week of innovation and industry insights, the knowledge, ideas, and connections we gained at Pesticon 2025 will continue to fuel our mission to provide exceptional pest management services across Asia!