Kuala lumpur: Malaysia is positioning itself as a high-tech, innovation-driven nation with a clear strategy to advance beyond manufacturing into technology creation and global semiconductor leadership, said Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Chang Lih Kang. Speaking at the seventh edition of the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) Tech Talks at UCSI University here tonight, Chang said Malaysia’s technological future hinges on its ability to invest in talent, research, and innovation, particularly in the fast-growing semiconductor sector.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Chang emphasized the importance of mastering technology, noting that the global race in technology will be won by countries that invest in talent, innovation, and courage. He highlighted that the country’s electrical and electronics (E and E) industry remains a strong economic pillar, with semiconductor exports increasing from RM106 billion in 2015 to RM387 billion in 2023. This sector accounts for a quarter of Malaysia’s gross domestic product (GDP) and supports around 100,000 jobs.
Chang outlined the strategy to build the full spectrum of semiconductor capability through new investments, specialized training, and strategic partnerships. He asserted that the aim is to make Malaysia’s semiconductor ecosystem not only competitive but also complete, resilient, and future-ready. Central to this mission is the National Science, Technology and Innovation Policy (NSTIP) 2021-2030, which includes six policy thrusts and 40 cross-ministerial initiatives to strengthen research and innovation governance.
The minister also mentioned Malaysia’s target to raise research and development (R and D) expenditure to 2.5 percent of GDP, with 70 percent driven by the private sector. A key focus is on human capital, with a goal of having 200 researchers, scientists, engineers, and technologists per 10,000 workers. Malaysia’s progress is evident, with the country ranking 34th in the 2025 Global Innovation Index and Kuala Lumpur climbing from 93rd to 86th among the world’s top science clusters.
MOSTI agencies, particularly MIMOS, play a significant role in advancing this agenda through R and D, technology transfer, and talent development. MIMOS’s Semiconductor Technology Centre now offers world-class testing and reliability facilities, including an international automotive testing capability, while the MIMOS Junior Academy inspires young Malaysians to explore science and innovation from an early age.
Chang emphasized that this journey cannot be achieved by the government alone and that public-private collaboration is key. He urged a collective effort to position Malaysia as a leader in the global technology race, ensuring that every investment in innovation delivers measurable national value, rather than simply participating in the global market.