Kuala lumpur: The Selangor state government, through its Standing Committee on Education and Human Capital, has allocated RM3.5 million for the Selangor Development Grant (SELidik) 2026.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari announced that SELidik marks a transformation from the previous Selangor Research Grant (GPNS) 2024, covering a broader scope of research to support the Second Selangor Plan (RS-2) focused on strategic specialisation. He stated that RM2.5 million has been allocated to Universiti Islam Selangor (UIS) and Universiti Selangor (UNISEL) for the first phase, aiming to produce research outputs like modules, applications, and prototypes.

Amirudin further revealed plans for a second phase expansion to other public institutions nationwide, with an additional RM1 million earmarked for local universities throughout Selangor. Managed by Yayasan Selangor, the initiative is anticipated to yield returns through economic development, academic excellence, and human capital empowerment. Research findings from the SELidik programme will be directed to relevant committees to aid state policymakers.

He also mentioned the possibility of involving international universities if surplus funds become available. The application process is open to local researchers, requiring that each study aligns with the six main themes of the RS-2 and the relevant government departments. The RS-2, announced on August 7, 2023, sets economic targets valued at RM600 billion for 2026-2030, focusing on missions such as driving economic leadership, ensuring balanced development, and fostering a productive and inclusive human capital environment.