Kuala Lumpur:The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) will utilize the RM1.29 billion allocation under Budget 2027 to enhance the semiconductor industry, artificial intelligence, the technology startup ecosystem, and the commercialization of local research output. Minister Datuk Chang Lih Kang emphasized that this funding underlines the government's commitment to bolstering the country's technological and innovation capabilities.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the budget, themed 'Menggapai Di Langit, Mengakar Di Bumi' (Reaching for the Skies, While Anchored on Our Values), aims to accelerate Malaysia's transition from a consumer to a creator and owner of technology. The government intends for the benefits of innovation to positively impact the population and stimulate national economic growth.
MOSTI's RM1.29 billion allocation for 2027 includes RM775.46 million for operating expenditure and RM516.93 million for development expenditure, marking a 1.29% increase over the RM1.28 billion allocated in 2026. Under the Second Rolling Plan of the 13th Malaysia Plan, MOSTI will implement 61 projects focused on research, development, commercialization, innovation, strategic technology, and strengthening the industrial ecosystem.
To reinforce the startup ecosystem and the semiconductor industry, the Malaysian Technology Development Corporation (MTDC) received RM10 million for follow-on equity financing through the SemiconStart Programme. Additionally, Kumpulan Modal Perdana was allocated RM10 million for a pilot project under the Fund for Ownership, Resilience, Growth, and Emerging Technologies (FORGE).
Cradle Fund Sdn Bhd received RM41 million to implement the Malaysian Startup Ecosystem Roadmap 2026-2030 (SUPER 2.0), targeting 5,500 active startups and 5,000 skilled job opportunities through programs like CIP Spark and CIP Sprint. Furthermore, RM2 million has been dedicated to the GLC Innovation Workshop (BIG) Programme to enhance productivity in the oil palm plantation sector using IoT, robotics, and data analytics.
In strategic technology, the Malaysian Space Agency (MYSA) received RM7.5 million to develop computing infrastructure, a space AI laboratory, and an Integrated GeoAI Analytics Platform for improved disaster management, food security, and border control.
NanoMalaysia Berhad was allocated RM4 million for the CERAH MADANI initiative to lower community energy costs. Bioeconomy Corporation received RM2.5 million to recycle used fishing nets, creating income opportunities for over 2,000 fishermen.
MOSTI is dedicated to cultivating science, technology, and innovation in 2027, ensuring that the Budget 2027 allocation is effectively implemented to maximize economic and social impact in line with the agenda of Bringing Science to the People, Humanizing Technology, and Mainstreaming Innovation.