Kuala lumpur: The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) and all relevant agencies are encouraged to enhance strategic research funding to catalyse world-class scientific and technological breakthroughs, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Fadillah Yusof. He emphasized that this initiative would accelerate the adoption and commercialisation of frontier technologies, attract global researchers, scientific institutions, and high-impact talent into Malaysia and the wider ASEAN region.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Fadillah stated that “Malaysia stands ready to serve as a gateway, a testbed, a launchpad and a thriving hub for global innovators to scale transformative solutions for the region.” He delivered these remarks in his keynote address at the opening of the ASEAN Technology Cooperation and Development Summit 2025, held at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre.
In his speech, Fadillah highlighted that ASEAN is entering what many have described as its ‘defining decade’. He pointed out that the region stands at the intersection of shifting global dynamics, rapid technological advancement, and evolving economic landscapes. He stressed that in this environment, unity, resilience, and shared innovation are not optional but essential.
He further noted that with a population exceeding 680 million, a vibrant digital economy, and a forward-looking young generation, ASEAN holds tremendous potential to rise as a global centre of innovation, technology, and sustainable progress. Fadillah expressed Malaysia’s firm belief that science, technology, and innovation must be central to ASEAN’s long-term regional strategy.
Fadillah also addressed the summit’s theme, ‘Uniting Innovation, Connecting the Future’, which he said reflects a powerful aspiration shared across the region. He stated that the summit serves as a vital platform to strengthen cross-border scientific collaboration, policy harmonisation, investment networks, technology transfer, and regional innovation ecosystems.
He concluded by highlighting the strong involvement of MOSTI, UNESCO, the diplomatic council, and many other partners, indicating that ASEAN is taking meaningful steps towards a more integrated, agile, and innovation-driven future.