Termites are one of the most destructive urban pests in Malaysia, causing significant economic losses due to structural damage. According to a study by the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI), the annual damage cost of termite infestation in Malaysia was estimated at about RM 40 million and this figure does not include the cost of prevention, inspection, and treatment, which could add up to another RM 100 million per year. Therefore, it is crucial to implement effective and preventive management strategies to reduce the impact of this pest on the urban environment.
Termites are highly organized and cooperative insects that exhibit complex behaviours. Some of these behaviours are: