Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim wants more research scientists in Malaysia to work in the industrial sector where they can contribute much-needed ideas and expertise. 

The prime minister also urged industries to provide more job opportunities for those with knowledge and skills. 

“I am worried to see data showing 87.5% of research scientists serving higher learning institutions and public research centres compared with research scientists in regional countries like Thailand and Singapore where 50% or more researchers are in the industrial sector. 

“I am throwing a challenge to these experts and knowledgeable group to become a catalyst for change, become a driving force and be competitive in strengthening the ecosystem of the country’s STI (science, technology and innovation) because it should be given priority,” he said. 

Anwar said he fully supported the Road Map for Research, Development, Commercialisation, and Innovation (RDCI), which would be a platform to seek and provide solutions towards improving innovation.  

“The country’s scientific community must also reform their work culture to be mission-oriented towards one that provides solutions as well as promotes ways to carry out such initiatives holistically and effectively,” he said. 

The prime minister said to fulfill aspirations of becoming an STI-based country, the local scientific community must collaborate with the government, businesses, and civil society so that Malaysia could achieve its target of entering the ranks of the top 30 countries in the Global Innovation Index by 2025. – Bernama, October 17, 2023.