Mukim gunong: Innovation is not only confined to the creation of new products or technologies, but also includes business models that play a crucial role in strengthening and advancing enterprises. Yayasan Inovasi Malaysia (YIM) chief executive officer Dr Sharmila Mohamed Salleh emphasized that while some products may not be easily modified to remain competitive, an effective business model encompassing management, sales, and customer engagement can open new market opportunities.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Sharmila highlighted the example of tanjak-making, a traditional Malay headgear. She noted that many places produce similar designs, often because they were taught by the same instructors, and some designs are tied to royal insignia, which cannot be altered. In such scenarios, innovative business models become the key drivers of innovation.
Dr Sharmila made these remarks after visiting a tanjak-making workshop in Kampung Telaga Tengah, Mukim Gunong, today as part of the Northern Zone Innovation Trail Programme. She mentioned that YIM is prepared to assist entrepreneurs in identifying areas of innovation by connecting them with innovators, including researchers from nearby universities. She stated that YIM would provide solutions within its ecosystem, and if unavailable, they would engage local researchers such as those from Universiti Utara Malaysia in Kedah.
As an agency under the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI), YIM is committed to driving grassroots innovation through high-impact projects that focus on inclusive and sustainable community development.
In conjunction with the Innovation Trail Programme, YIM also organized the Youth Innovative Challenges (YIC) competition at Albukhary International University, showcasing creations by students from diploma to bachelor's degree levels. Participating institutions included Kolej Komuniti Langkawi, Kolej Vokasional Alor Setar, Politeknik Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam, Universiti Sains Malaysia, and UniKL MSI (Malaysian-Spanish Institute).
The competition was won by Muhammad Hakim Hazrul Izwan of Kolej Komuniti Langkawi. Hanif Safwan Basirun of Kolej Vokasional Alor Setar secured second place, while Nur Fajihah Saad of Politeknik Sultan Abdul Halim Shah finished in third.