Kuala lumpur: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called for Malaysia to strengthen its STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) ecosystem to develop more young talent capable of driving the country's future growth and competitiveness. He emphasized the need for creating more opportunities for young people through universities, research institutions, industries, and startups.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar expressed the desire for ideas born in schools to evolve into research, technology, innovation, and enterprises that can address real-world problems and enhance Malaysia's global competitiveness. Speaking at the 2026 National Science Challenge (NSC) YAB Prime Minister's Challenge Trophy Final at the National Institutes of Health, he underscored that the NSC should serve as a continuous talent development platform rather than merely an annual event. His speech was delivered by Science, Technology, and Innovation Minister Chang Lih Kang.
Anwar urged the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI), the Academy of Sciences Malaysia (ASM), the Education Ministry (MoE), and strategic partners to collaborate in making the NSC a pathway for ongoing talent development. He highlighted the importance of Malaysia transitioning from a technology consumer to a creator, owner, and master of technology. This transition is crucial as the nation grapples with challenges like food security, energy supply, public health, water security, climate change, and the responsible use of artificial intelligence.
Furthermore, Anwar emphasized that science education should go beyond memorizing formulas and achieving good exam results. It should focus on developing critical thinking, openness to ideas, experimentation, and honesty in the face of failures. Strengthening STEM education, he noted, must be a shared responsibility involving the government, schools, universities, industry, and communities to ensure continuous guidance and growth for young talent.
Anwar pointed out that MoE data indicated an increase in student enrolment in STEM to 50.83% in 2024 from 40.95% in 2021, although participation in pure sciences remained at approximately 15.8%. This data highlights a gap between interest in STEM and readiness for deeper engagement. He stressed the importance of moving beyond merely encouraging STEM choices to ensuring sustained participation, capability development, and success in the field, with teachers playing a critical role in igniting curiosity and building confidence among the youth.
He also called for connecting promising participants, particularly those from rural areas, Sabah and Sarawak, and low-income families, with mentors, laboratories, scholarships, and innovation networks.