Kampar: Students pursuing science and technology-related fields can look forward to promising job prospects, as Malaysia experiences a surge in high-tech investments driving demand for skilled talent. Science, Technology, and Innovation Minister Datuk Chang Lih Kang highlighted that the current demand for science and technology professionals surpasses the available graduates and workforce to fill roles in the sector.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Chang emphasized the objectives of the 20th Malaysia Festival of the Minds, aimed at assuring students of the abundant job opportunities in the science and technology fields. The festival also seeks to address concerns about technological advancement potentially replacing human workers. Through this outreach program, the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation (MOSTI) is engaging with students directly to communicate their perspective on technological advancements and AI.
Chang made these comments after inaugurating the festival at the Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) Kampar Campus. He noted that the government is collaborating with universities and industry leaders to encourage more students to enter science and technology disciplines, ensuring a steady talent pipeline to support the growing high-tech sector in Malaysia.
Highlighting the influx of high-tech, high-value investments, Chang stated that the need for science and technology talent is not just rhetoric but a tangible requirement to fill new positions. In a related announcement, Chang revealed that the government has earmarked RM92 million from the Malaysia Science Endowment (MSE), complemented by RM93 million from five industry partners, totaling RM185 million. This investment aims to bolster Malaysia's advanced packaging technology capabilities over the next two years.
Chang explained that the initiative reflects a matching-fund approach where industry and government share the responsibility for developing strategic technologies. The dual contribution ensures the sector does not depend solely on government funding. Despite challenges, particularly in funding and the complexity of technological development, Chang expressed confidence in achieving targets within two years.
This initiative, launched several months ago, seeks to enhance Malaysia's advanced packaging technology capabilities by 2028, reinforcing a vital segment of the semiconductor industry's value chain.