MOSTI intensifies R&D-driven initiatives to strengthen Malaysia’s strategic sectors amid global supply chain disruptions and West Asia tensions.
KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) will intensify research and development (R&D)-driven initiatives to strengthen Malaysia’s capabilities in strategic sectors amid growing concerns over global supply chain disruptions.
Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Chang Li Kang said the matter was discussed during the weekly National Science Council meeting chaired by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim yesterday.
He said the ongoing crisis in West Asia had highlighted the importance of Malaysia developing its own technological capabilities.
“We cannot be overly dependent on other countries, especially in areas such as technology, food and medicine.
“Therefore, through the National Science Council meeting, we agreed to focus on several national missions that will drive R&D-oriented development efforts,” he said after officiating the Special Science Day (HIS) 2026 at the National Science Centre today.
Chang was responding to questions regarding the government’s need to strengthen domestic military technology capabilities following the conflict in West Asia.
On the development of Malaysia’s nuclear energy programme, he said the initiative falls under the jurisdiction of MyPower Corporation, which serves as the Nuclear Energy Programme Implementing Organisation (NEPIO).
“They are currently conducting a preliminary study. MOSTI will be involved throughout the implementation process, but the programme is still at the study stage,” he said.
