<h3 class='text-base'>The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (<a href='https://www.mosti.gov.my'>MOSTI</a>) is leading Malaysia’s growth through innovative initiatives and programmes that enhance science, technology, and research across the country.</h3><py-8></py-8>

<h3 class='text-base'>Budget 2025 allocates RM1.2 billion to MOSTI, reinforcing the government's commitment to advancing R&D as well as science and technology development in Malaysia.</h3><py-8></py-8>

Is AI a threat to our careers? MOSTI Minister breaks it down in an exclusive interview 👉

Will AI Take My Job?

Read how MOSTI is spearheading groundbreaking initiatives in Malaysia's Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) sector

Top headlines of the development and adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in Malaysia

<h3 class='text-base'>The MYGenom project, launched by MOSTI and the Ministry of Health, aims to sequence 10,000 Malaysian genomes to enhance precision medicine by understanding genetic variations across the country's diverse ethnic groups.</h3><py-8></py-8>

<h3 class='text-base'>Rehlah Science 2024 runs engaging STEM activities aimed at fostering interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics among students in Kelantan, Terengganu, and Pahang.</h3><py-8></py-8>

KEPALA BATAS: Malaysia, with over 15,000 medicinal plant species, has tremendous potential to lead research in botanical medicine according to the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (Mosti).Its secretary-general, Datuk Aminuddin Hassim said Malaysia could establish itself in the global herbal market while responsibly utilising its biodiversity, by combining traditional knowledge with scientific research.“Globally, botanical treatments support the primary healthcare needs of around 60 per cent of the population, as reported by the World Health Organisation (WHO). “Interest in herbal medicines has grown post-pandemic, with studies showing a 32 per cent increase in the use of natural products due to the demand for safer, more sustainable healthcare solutions,“ he said in his speech at the 2024 National Biotechnology Symposium here today.He added that a key initiative under the National Biotechnology Policy 2.0, Flagship Programme 3, focuses on developing of Halal botanical medicines and high-value natural ingredients for the healthcare and wellness industry, aimed at enhancing healthcare biotechnology and promoting the wellness sector.Aminuddin said it is imperative to continue fostering collaborations between academia, industry, government, and other stakeholders. “By working together, we can drive the innovation needed to advance botanical medicine, ensuring that our country’s rich biodiversity is responsibly and sustainably utilised to meet global healthcare needs. “I trust that the discussions and knowledge shared during this symposium will provide valuable insights into the latest advancements in botanical medicine development and inspire new ideas for future research and collaborations,“ he added.The one-day symposium was hosted by the National Institutes of Biotechnology Malaysia (NIBM), an agency under MOSTI, in collaboration with the Institute for Medical Research, Forest Research Institute Malaysia, Bioeconomy Corporation, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), Malaysia Pepper Board, and Kolej Kemahiran Tinggi MARA. The symposium serves as a platform to foster dialogue, explore opportunities and build meaningful collaborations to position Malaysia as a global leader in the herbal and botanical medicine industries.

theSun

Malaysia has potential to lead botanical medicine research - Mosti

KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) is studying the possibility of developing a Large Language Model (LLM) in Bahasa Malaysia through collaboration with local universities and companies, the Dewan Rakyat was told today.Its Deputy Minister Datuk Mohammad Yusof Apdal said one of the key partners in the initiative was Mesolitica, a local company that had developed a LLM in Bahasa Malaysia known as MaLLaM, or Malaysia Large Language Model.“MaLLaM is produced entirely using local databases and datasets and has the ability to understand our language and culture more deeply. MIMOS (the Malaysian Institute of Microelectronic Systems), an agency under MOSTI and Mesolitica are actively working together to enhance the capabilities and effectiveness of this model.“This collaboration will also involve Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) in the future to enrich Bahasa Malaysia,” he said during the question-and-answer session.He said this in reply to a supplementary question from  Lee Chean Chung (PH-Petaling Jaya), who asked whether the ministry would collaborate with DBP to ensure that the LLM is both unique and suitable for the development of the country’s official language.Responding to Lee’s original question on whether the ministry would develop its own LLM and the measures taken to ensure local values and culture were preserved, Mohammad Yusof said MOSTI had held a series of discussions with various ministries and government agencies, including the Health Ministry, the Digital Ministry, and the Prime Minister’s Department, to develop a local LLM.He said the development of the LLM would adhere to the Guidelines on Artificial Intelligence Governance and Ethics (AIGE), which were launched on Sept 20.“The Guidelines on AIGE serve as one of the mechanisms to promote and encourage the responsible use of AI technology in the country. Adherence to these guidelines will ensure that the LLM is developed without neglecting local values and culture,” he said.Mohammad Yusof said that the development of the LLM would help support the local AI ecosystem, reduce reliance on foreign AI technologies, enhance decision-making and task automation, and facilitate research in various sectors by adapting global AI knowledge to local languages and needs.However, he said that the development of LLMs or AI models involved substantial costs and required specialised equipment, which was usually implemented in cloud-based high-performance computing (HPC) centres.“The initial hardware investment costs could be reduced by utilising services from cloud service providers such as Microsoft Azure, OpenAI, and Amazon Web Services (AWS).“However, there are concerns about data security as the data will be stored overseas, which poses a risk of confidential data leakage,” said Mohammad Yusof.As such, he said MOSTI, through MIMOS, was looking into the use of competitively priced computing infrastructure that would ensure the safe handling and refinement of proprietary data.According to Mohammad Yusof, the use of aiDAPTIV+ technology in collaboration with Phison had led to a reduction in costs and an improvement in data security.“aiDAPTIV allows users to train and optimise AI models using confidential data on their own premises and reduce the risk of data leakage,” he said.In response to a supplementary question from Mohd Nazri Abu Hassan (PN-Merbok) on the coordination of the AI framework among ASEAN countries, Mohammad Yusof said that ASEAN had issued a guide on AI governance and Ethics on Feb 2, which serves as a practical resource for organisations seeking to implement AI technology commercially in the region.“This guide aims to promote alignment within ASEAN and improve the interoperability of the AI ??framework across member countries,” he said.

MOSTI studying possibility of developing own LLM to support local AI ecosystem

PUTRAJAYA: The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) will step up efforts to diversify science, technology and innovation (STI) programmes to encourage more students to pursue science streams in higher education.Minister Chang Lih Kang said the initiative was in line with the government’s agenda to develop a skilled workforce as the country attracts more foreign investment in technology sectors.“The government is prioritising technical and vocational education and training (TVET), with a focus on high-skill TVET. As such, students must have a solid foundation in STI.“This also aligns with the government’s agenda, as we are drawing in more investments in the technology sector. It is no longer about labour-intensive industries or investments, but these investments are now high-value and high-range. We need to provide enough talent for these industries (STI and TVET) so we can reduce dependence on foreign labour,” he said.He was speaking to reporters after officiating the closing ceremony of the National Science Week (NSW) Carnival and Malaysia Techlympics 2024 National Finals here today.This year’s NSW is the seventh edition since its launch in 2018, with MOSTI continuing the Malaysia Techlympics programme to ignite interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) among the younger generation through exciting competitions.Earlier in his speech, Chang said the online NSW programme, which began in April and concluded in October, recorded nearly 2.4 million engagements nationwide.“Overall, the Malaysia Techlympics 2024 saw 652,613 participants from across the country.“As part of MOSTI’s commitment to inclusivity and ensuring no group is left behind, the ministry has implemented outreach initiatives through the Malaysia Techlympics 2024 Inclusion Programme, targeting rural students,” Chang said.

MOSTI expands STI programmes to develop a skilled workforce - Chang

Its development will support local AI ecosystem and reduce dependency on foreign technology, says Mohammad Yusof (Pic credit: MEDIA MULIA)by HIDAYATH HISHAM THE Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry (MOSTI) is working on developing a local Large Language Model (LLM) in Bahasa Malaysia to support Malaysia’s artificial intelligence (AI) ecosystem while ensuring data security and alignment with local values and culture. Deputy Minister Datuk Mohammad Yusof Apdal in response to Lee Chean Chung (Petaling Jaya-PH) on […]

The Malaysian Reserve

MOSTI explores local AI development with Large Language Model

SEPANG - A chance provided by the operator of a smart farm called Metrosfarm, has brought significant meaning to Izuddin Mastuki, 41, a homeless man once caught up in crime.
Izuddin, known as Che Din, told Bernama that his life has completely transformed-from being lost and feeling excluded from society to becoming a farmer at the smart farm, working alongside 13 others with similar backgrounds.
"When project leader Ariff Hishamudin Hussin chose me to be trained as an IoT (Internet of Things) farmer, I accepted it with an open heart and felt deeply moved because there are still people willing to give a second chance and trust someone like me.

Sinar Daily

Smart farming initiative offers second chance for homeless man

BY HIDAYATH HISHAM The government will introduce the “Roadmap to My Digital Justice” in 2025 to integrate digital solutions and artificial intelligence (AI) into the legal sector. Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Legal and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said, said that the use of AI systems in the legal sector could enhance […]

Government to launch roadmap to digital justice in 2025, integrating AI in justice system

KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) aims to increase the contribution of experimental research development in science, technology and innovation (STI) to 50% by 2025, up from 45.5% in 2020.In a statement, MOSTI said the increase will focus on research and development (R&D) commercialisation and leverage the Malaysia Science Endowment (MSE) Fund to match private sector funding with industry and government-linked investment companies (GLICs).The ministry said the move aims to reduce dependence on government funding while boosting Gross Expenditure on Research and Development (GERD) and Business Expenditure on R&D (BERD) by 2030.Key initiatives in Budget 2025 for MOSTI include developing technology such as MySTI (for procuring local R&D products), the National Innovation and Technology Sandbox (NTIS) for product testing, Malaysian Commercialisation Year (MCY) to commercialise local R&D products, and KL20, an action plan for the start-up ecosystem.“In artificial intelligence (AI), MOSTI, through the National Blockchain and Artificial Intelligence Committee (NBAIC), has implemented over 20 initiatives since 2022, including AI ethics guidelines and the AI Sandbox,“ it said.MOSTI has also initiated various STI cultural programmes, such as the SciTech4U Programme, National Science Week, and Malaysia Techlympics. The “STI 100 on the Power of Three” (STI 1003) programme this year matched 100 scientists with 100 schools.In exploring nuclear energy as a primary energy source for carbon neutrality by 2050, MOSTI, alongside the Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA), has been tasked with developing nuclear energy expertise and training in Malaysia.MOSTI noted that the initiative aligns with the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) and National Energy Policy (NEP) as a proactive solution to Malaysia’s energy trilemma of stability, sustainability, and efficiency.MOSTI’s Budget 2025 includes an RM738 million operating budget (a 4.7% increase) and a development budget of RM536.62 million (a 0.15% increase). Allocations for STI service development rose from RM140 million to RM141 million, with STI research increasing from RM102 million to RM172 million. The R&D budget is RM595 million, with RM195 million under MOSTI and RM400 million under the Ministry of Higher Education (KPT).“With this budget increase, MOSTI is committed to accelerating Malaysia’s transition towards a high-tech, high-income nation and strengthening Malaysia’s position as a leader in innovation and technology on the global stage,“ it added.

MOSTI targets 50% rise in STI experimental research development contribution next year

"You are not losing to AI," said the minister.

SAYS

"Will AI Take Your Job?" — MOSTI Minister Offers Fresh Perspective In Exclusive Interview

KUALA LUMPUR: The government is considering using nuclear energy as a power source for the country in the future, said Science, Technology, and Innovation Minister Chang Lih Kang.He said the initiative is part of the efforts towards achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050.“Technological advancements have made nuclear energy more suitable for Malaysia with innovations such as the Small Modular Reactor that enable smaller, safer, and more cost-effective nuclear plants.“These new technological features can be used in areas where conventional energy sources are not suitable in terms of application and cost. Advances in nuclear technology offer advantages in terms of safety, particularly with improvements in waste management,” he said during the winding-up of the debate on the Supply Bill 2025 at the policy level for his ministry in Dewan Rakyat today.Chang said modern reactors produce less radioactive waste by utilising more efficient fuel, adding that nuclear energy offers stability in terms of long-term operational costs, particularly in fuel price.He said nuclear energy also offers high energy efficiency, requiring little fuel, such as uranium, yet capable of generating large amounts of power, much more efficiently than fossil fuels.As the ministry responsible for developing Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI), he said MOSTI could play a role in providing expertise through training programmes.According to Chang, the Malaysian Nuclear Agency has over 40 years of experience, knowledge and expertise in operating and maintaining the TRIGA PUSPATI nuclear research reactor, which can be applied to a nuclear energy programme if implemented in the future.“Along with that, the government continuously conducts public awareness campaigns such as educational programmes, visits by experts, dialogues, and public forums to increase public awareness about nuclear safety.“The Malaysian Nuclear Agency is collaborating with the Communications Ministry through the Information Department to implement nationwide communication, educational and public awareness (CEPA) initiatives on nuclear technology,” he added.

Govt mulling using nuclear energy as future power source - MOSTI

KUALA LUMPUR: The National Artificial Intelligence Office (NAIO) which will be launched next month will study the need to upgrade existing laws or enact new laws related to artificial intelligence (AI) technology and other new technologies.Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo said the study aims to address challenges that will emerge from the development of technology including the issue of personal data leakage.“We are aware of this issue (leakage of personal data) and there are also other regional and global countries that have looked specifically at (the matter).“After launching the AI ​​Office next month, we will see the need for us to change the law or create the necessary standards to deal with the situation,“ he said during an oral question and answer session in the Dewan Rakyat today.He was replying to a supplementary question by Datuk Abdul Khalib Abdullah (PN-Rompin) regarding the government’s measures to overcome the negative implications of AI including the issue of personal data leakage.The establishment of NAIO under the supervision of MyDigital Corporation was announced on Sept 5 with the main focus on designing an ecosystem to ensure Malaysia is capable of becoming an AI hub in the region.Gobind said NAIO is the main organisation that will monitor the implementation of AI technology by sectors in the country to ensure that all aspects will be well protected from any threats and abuse.He said the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) had also launched the AI ​​Governance and Ethics Guidelines (AIGE) on Sept 20 to provide an environment and ecosystem that supports the design and development of AI that is ethical and responsible.Besides, Gobind said the Personal Data Protection Commissioner is also developing seven guidelines that can be used as reference documents by data controllers in Malaysia with three of them directly related to AI technology.The three guidelines are the Guidelines on Data Protection Impact Assessment (DPIA), the Guidelines on Privacy by Design (PbD) and the Guidelines on Automated Individual Decision Making (ADM) and Profiling.

NAIO to study laws to combat future technology challenges - Gobind

LABUAN: The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (Mosti) is intensifying efforts to organise Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Carnivals to better prepare the nation for the rapid advancements of Industrial Revolution 4.0, with a focus on emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI).

Daily Express

STI Carnivals to better prepare nation for IR 4.0

LABUAN: The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) is intensifying efforts to organise Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) Carnivals to better prepare the nation for the rapid advancements of Industrial Revolution 4.0, with a focus on emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI).Deputy Minister Datuk Mohammad Yusof Apdal said the carnivals aim to educate school and university students, as well as the public, on the importance of emerging technologies, including robotics, automation, big data, advanced analytics and various digital innovations that push the boundaries of conventional thinking.“Building on last year’s successful approach, this year’s National Science Week (NSW) is being held in a hybrid format, with monthly activities conducted on virtual platforms.“In addition, the NSW 2024 Carnival will be held physically in selected states, with today’s STI MADANI Carnival in Labuan marking the seventh event, following similar ones in Kuala Lumpur, Kelantan, Penang, Perak, Perlis and Melaka,” he said when officiating the 2024 STI MADANI Carnival and Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) Tamu Gadang event at UMS Labuan campus here today.He said one of the main objectives of the 2024 NSW Carnival is to celebrate the diversity of STI activities across states and provide a platform for local STI leaders and practitioners to showcase ideas, technologies, and innovations tailored to meet the needs of their communities.He added that, at the same time, the NSW online component along with its monthly programmes, will continue through strong collaboration between MOSTI’s departments and agencies, higher education institutions, private sector partners, associations and other relevant stakeholders.“Among the online programmes planned are webinars, forums, quizzes and exploration challenges, all based on monthly focus areas.“Each programme under NSW aims to engage a wide range of participants, including school and university students, teachers, industry professionals and the general public,” he added.Mohammad Yusof said that based on last year’s participation, MOSTI is aiming to achieve over 600,000 total participants this year.“NSW 2024 will also feature over 50 exciting STI-based activities each month, offering something for all visitors and participants,” he added.

MOSTI steps up efforts to prepare nation for Industrial Revolution 4.0

KUALA LUMPUR: The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) presents Malaysia with significant opportunities for economic growth and job creation, said Deputy Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Mohammad Yusof Apdal. He said 4IR initiatives have the potential to drive Malaysia’s transformation into a high-tech, innovation-driven economy, creating skilled employment and boosting productivity across sectors.“4IR offers a pathway for Malaysia to increase productivity by 30% across sectors and transform our workforce,” he said at the Road to Growth 2024 (R2G) event, organised by Malaysian Technology Development Corporation (MTDC) today.Yusof emphasised the National 4IR Policy goal of upgrading 20% of semi-skilled and low-skilled labour to highly skilled roles by 2030. “The success of 4IR depends on our human capital, and Mosti is committed to upskilling our workforce to meet the demands of this new era.”He said the policy also seeks to foster more home-grown 4IR technology providers. “Since the MTDC 4IR Centre of Excellence was launched in 2018, Mosti has nurtured 26 local solution providers, equipping manufacturers with affordable, advanced technologies. These solution providers are enabling local industries to modernise and become competitive players in the global digital economy,” noted.Yusof reaffirmed Mosti’s commitment to environmental goals, aiming to reach the Top 50 in the Environmental Performance Index and achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. “4IR technologies are pivotal to our journey toward a low-carbon future,” he stated, citing advancements in energy efficiency and sustainable practices as key to reducing emissions.Mosti, he said, is backing these ambitions with substantial financial commitments, including RM510 million in research and development funding and a RM200 million venture capital fund for startups, reinforcing its vision to drive Malaysia’s innovation ecosystem. “Our investments reflect our commitment to making Malaysia a global technology leader and a hub for innovation-driven economic growth. With this investment, Malaysia is on track to capture a significant share of the US$23 trillion (RM101.2 trillion) global digital economy by 2025.”Yusof noted that Malaysia’s progress in innovation is evident, as the country has recently climbed to 33rd place in the Global Innovation Index (GII), marking its highest ranking since 2016. “Our rise in the GII rankings is a milestone that shows we are on track to achieve a Top 20 position by 2030,” he said.Meanwhile, R2G 2024, brought together more than 1,000 registered participants with 50 exhibitors, and marked a significant milestone in Malaysia’s journey to becoming a global leader in 4IR.MTDC Group CEO Mohammad Hazani Hassan said that MTDC is supporting 850 local companies, financing 600 businesses and facilitating the creation of 700 intellectual properties. “These contributions have generated over RM8 billion in revenue and RM1 billion in export value. We have also approved RM151 million in investments through funding programmes like the Business Growth Fund and Business Start-Up Fund, which have created more than 1,137 jobs and facilitated the development of 60 intellectual properties,” he added.

4IR presents significant opportunities for economic growth, job creation: Mosti

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is considering using nuclear energy generation as one of the country’s energy sources in the future, said Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli.He said that the responsibility for this is being carried out by the Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA) and the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation (MOSTI) to ensure that the legal framework and regulations are developed for this purpose.“Since the decision has been made at the National Energy Council level and endorsed by the Cabinet, the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) will officially include the possibility of nuclear energy as one of the energy sources in the country,” Rafizi said after an industry dialogue held in conjunction with the National OGSE Blueprint Forum 2024, here today.Rafizi added that at the initial stage of nuclear sector development, a strict legal and regulatory framework would be needed, including compliance with international regulations.“There is a long list of international compliance that we have to meet even before we embark into nuclear. But I think the nitty-gritty of how the power sector participates in nuclear, that will be decided and regulated most probably by the Energy Commission.“This is at the regulatory level,” he added.Meanwhile, Rafizi highlighted that the government will not intervene in the decisions of private banks, including CIMB Group Holdings Bhd, which will stop financing oil and gas companies.“We understand that financial institutions, particularly private ones, will continue to face pressure if they cannot demonstrate that their loan portfolios are aligned with green economic activities.“If banks are perceived as insufficiently funding green economy programmes while continuing to support projects seen as harmful, such as oil and gas, it explains why institutions like CIMB are taking these actions. However, the oil and gas industry in Malaysia is a strategic sector,” he said.Rafizi said the government needs to ensure that there is sufficient financing through private banks or government financial institutions, even though some decisions from private banks are based on their strategies.“On behalf of the oil and gas players, I will sit down and discuss with the banks to understand how they intend to address these conflicting demands,” said Rafizi.In July this year, CIMB Group Holdings Bhd announced that it aims to reduce the Financed Emissions Lending Intensity (FELI) of its oil and gas portfolio by 16 per cent by 2030, covering Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions from upstream and integrated oil and gas companies.Also, starting Jan 1, 2025, CIMB will halt new financing for upstream oil fields approved for development post-2021, in line with the International Energy Agency’s (IEA) guidelines.Earlier, Rafizi launched the OGSE Strategic Partnership Facilitation Service and the National OGSE Sustainability Framework Guide. The one-day forum was organised by the Malaysia Petroleum Resources Corporation.

Nuclear energy is on the table for Malaysia’s energy mix, to be included in 13MP - Rafizi

PUTRAJAYA: The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) will implement the National Planet Health Action Plan (PTKPN) starting next year to support the achievement of Malaysia’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).MOSTI announced that this initiative was agreed upon during the National Science Council (MSN) meeting chaired by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today.According to MOSTI, the implementation of the national SDGs is currently on the right track, with 40 per cent of indicators met, compared to the global average of only 17 per cent according to a United Nations report.However, MOSTI said that the remaining 60 per cent of indicators show weak or declining progress, necessitating the implementation of PTKPN as a reference and input for government policy formulation, including for the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP).“This MSN meeting agreed in principle on the PTKPN but its operation needs to be refined by all relevant stakeholders,“ said the statement.MOSTI also announced that the National Science Council will initiate efforts to enhance the governance framework of the science, technology, and innovation (STI) ecosystem at all levels involved.Among the proposed governance reforms are the transformation of the implementation landscape and the empowerment of the National Science Council’s mandate through the establishment of an Expert Advisory Panel and a National Science Coordination and Monitoring Committee.In addition, MOSTI is developing the Malaysian Innovation Index (MII) to provide a specific profile of innovation implementation for each region and state.“This initiative will help identify the strengths and weaknesses of the innovation ecosystem, subsequently developing targeted interventions according to the needs of each state,“ it said.Furthermore, to encourage the development of local technology through a technology sovereignty approach, MOSTI indicated that the National Science Council is considering reactivating the Ministry’s Sandbox Committee to enhance collaboration and standardise legislation and sectoral STI policies.“This top-down approach can ensure a faster and more effective adoption of technology, particularly in enhancing services to the public, addressing issues through technology, and further expanding the application of STI within the public sector,“ said MOSTI.MOSTI added that a report titled ‘ASEAN Ahead: Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Ecosystem Foresight 2035 and Beyond’ by the Academy of Sciences Malaysia, which will serve as a key reference in the formulation of the ASEAN Plan of Action on Science, Technology and Innovation (APASTI) 2026-2035, will be launched during Malaysia’s chairmanship of ASEAN next year.

National Planet Health Action Plan to be operational next year - MOSTI

ALOR GAJAH: The Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry (MOSTI) will continue to empower the Malaysia Techlympics programme as well as science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) initiatives with the cooperation of the Education Ministry.Its minister, Chang Lih Kang said the programme was aimed at building a solid foundation to nurture a highly skilled young generation and to generate interest in the STEM field.“The programme aims to involve more students in contests and innovative activities, including in the fields of robotics, smart technologies and artificial intelligence (AI).“Through participation in the Techlympics, students not only learn new skills but are ready for job challenges in a future that is growing more technology-oriented,” he said in a statement here today.The effort is in line with MOSTI’s focus to ensure local talent develops with the support of research and development funds as well as innovative platforms so that Malaysia will be a regional technology hub and leads in knowledge-based economic development by 2030.He also said that MOSTI would also continue to foster cooperation with state governments to organise various programmes and activities, including the National Science Week at state level, which is a flagship programme of the ministry.Chang said that this year’s National Science Week carnival would be carried out in six states, including Melaka, after the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Kelantan, Penang, Perak and Perlis.He added that the two-day Melaka carnival, which began yesterday, aims to attract 25,000 visitors from all over the state.The carnival was officiated by Melaka chief minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh, and was attended by state Science, Technology, Innovation and Digital Communications Committee chairman Datuk Fairul Nizam Roslan.

MOSTI to continue empowering Malaysia Techlympics, STEM programmes

SCIENCE, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) Minister Chang Lih Kang’s recent four-day visit to Turkey demonstrated the successful translation of science diplomacy between nations.

New Straits Times

MOSTI and MIGHT translate science diplomacy into effective solutions

It is a first-of-its-kind AI training programme for youth, targeting future job market preparedness and innovation skills.
The post MOSTI Launches ‘AI 4 Belia’ for Malaysian Youth in Tanjung Malim appeared first on TechTRP.

Tech TRP

MOSTI Launches ‘AI 4 Belia’ for Malaysian Youth in Tanjung Malim

TANJUNG MALIM: The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) is for the first time organising the ‘AI 4 Belia’ programme, aimed at empowering this group with artificial intelligence (AI) technology skills in preparation for the challenges of the future job market.Its minister, Chang Lih Kang said the organisation of the AI 4 Belia programme is a MOSTI initiative to cultivate Science, Technology and Innovation (STI), especially the use of AI in the lives of Malaysians, particularly among the youth.“This programme is important to give exposure to participants, especially the youth, regarding the use of AI in facing the challenges of the future job market and making Malaysia more competitive,“ he said when speaking at the AI 4 Belia programme at Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) here today.“The active participation of youth in initiatives like this is an important step in preparing them to face future challenges, especially in the high-tech job sector.”He said Tanjung Malim was the first station of the programme, and the response here was encouraging with the participation of 100 participants in the programme which is a collaboration between UPSI and Pixlr.“Young people are the successors in developing Malaysia in the future, and they are also pioneers of future jobs in fields such as Artificial Intelligence Engineering, Robotics, Cyber Security Agents, Blockchain Technology and so on,“ he said.“Additionally, AI is seen as being able to help youth in pursuing careers as innovation entrepreneurs or tech entrepreneurs because AI helps young people involved in business to analyse data, plan product marketing, and optimise operations with existing resources.”Chang said his team believes that by gradually increasing knowledge and awareness of youth regarding AI, the younger generation of Malaysians will be better prepared to face the technological challenges of the future.“As a result, our youth will not only become smart AI users but also leaders in creating innovations that leverage this technological advancement for the development of the nation,” he also said.“This is in line with the aspiration to make Malaysia a leading technology development country by 2030.”Meanwhile, at the same event, a memorandum of understanding (MOU) was also signed between UPSI, represented by UPSI Faculty of Computing and Meta-Technology dean Associate Professor Dr. Maizatul Hayati Mohamad Yatim and Pixlr, represented by Pixlr Sdn Bhd group executive officer Warren Leow.

Tanjung Malim first station of ‘AI 4 Belia’ programme, empowering usage among youth

GEORGE TOWN: Budget 2025 shows that the Federal Government is serious about enhancing the field of research and development (R&D) as well as the development of science and technology in the country.Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Chang Lih Kang said the R&D funds had been raised to RM600 million compared with RM510 million previously under the Ministry of Higher Education and Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI).“Overall, MOSTI received an allocation of RM1.2 billion. So, I feel that this is a positive development,” he told reporters after officiating the International Symposium on Biopolymers (ISBP) 2024 organised by Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) here today.Commenting on the four-day symposium, which began yesterday, Chang said Malaysia faced constraints in commercialising R&D  projects due to industry players and the government sector having difficulties forging collaboration.“We are trying to improve it and this symposium will bridge the gap where we have academia like USM working with industry players as well as government agencies to connect the dots,” he said.