Kuala lumpur: Malaysia's biggest hurdle in emerging as a technology-producing nation is no longer infrastructure, but rather the cultivation of high-quality, future-ready, and sustainable local talent. According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation's (MOSTI) deputy secretary-general, Datuk Ruziah Shafie, emphasized the importance of early exposure to science, technology, and innovation (STI) and science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) for developing a resilient and globally competitive workforce. Continuous science culture and outreach programs are deemed essential in this endeavor.
The National Science Week (MSN) program is highlighted as one of MOSTI's key initiatives to spark youth interest in these fields while bridging the gap between classroom learning and the demands of high-technology industries. Ruziah pointed out that in today's geopolitical landscape and amidst global supply chain challenges, achieving technology sovereignty is crucial for Malaysia. The nation must transition from being a mere consumer to a creator of technology, with the primary challenge being to ensure local talent can adapt to the rapid pace of global change.
Ruziah made these remarks while launching the STEM Showcase at Sekolah Menengah Jenis Kebangsaan (SMJK) Jit Sin II, in conjunction with the MSN 2026 - Northern Zone. The event was also graced by Tech Dome Penang CEO Khoo Boo Wooi. During the MSN 2026 program launch in April, Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Chang Lih Kang set a nationwide target of 1.15 million participants, aiming for inclusive and impactful exposure to STI and STEM.
The strategic selection of Seberang Perai Selatan (SPS) as the venue for the first MSN 2026 - Northern Zone Carnival underscores Penang's status as a high-tech hub, particularly in semiconductors and advanced packaging. The region is further bolstered by the technology ecosystem at Kulim Hi-Tech Park in Kedah, with Perak offering potential for the rare earth industry.
MOSTI's STI Foresight 2025-2040 study identifies ten priority areas for future talent development, including artificial intelligence (AI), data technologies, cybersecurity, and environmental sustainability, among others. The study also highlights key competencies such as adaptability, critical thinking, and digital literacy.
MOSTI's outreach programs emphasize hands-on learning to foster innovation from primary through secondary education, encouraging the application of scientific thinking in everyday life. Exposure to technologies like AI is deemed vital for future economic drivers who can leverage technology to boost productivity, enhance efficiency, and create value, fostering a generation that is technologically literate, creative, ethical, and responsible.
The two-day MSN 2026 - Northern Zone event, organized by MOSTI's Rakan MySains and Tech Dome Penang, featured a wide array of exhibitions, workshops, and interactive activities to promote STI culture in alignment with the National Science, Technology and Innovation Policy (NSTIP) 2021-2030. The program, which concluded today, was expected to draw around 20,000 visitors and introduced a new element of nuclear advocacy, highlighting the benefits of nuclear technology to the public.