
MALAYSIA is positioning itself as a high-tech, technology-led nation with a strategy to move beyond manufacturing into technology creation and global semiconductor leadership, Bernama reported.
Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) Minister Chang Lih Kang said Malaysia’s competitiveness depends on its capacity to invest in research, talent and advanced technology, particularly in the semiconductor sector.
He was speaking at the seventh edition of the MOSTI Tech Talks at UCSI University on Wednesday.
“We are in a global race not just to make technology, but to master it. That race will be won by countries that invest in talent, innovation and courage,” he said.
Chang said the electrical and electronics (E&E) industry remains one of Malaysia’s strongest economic pillars, with semiconductor exports expanding from RM106 billion in 2015 to RM387 billion in 2023.
The sector contributes about a quarter of the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP) and supports around 100,000 jobs.
He said Malaysia aims to build a competitive and comprehensive semiconductor ecosystem through new investments, specialised training and strategic partnerships.
He said the National Science, Technology and Innovation Policy (NSTIP) 2021–2030 provides the strategic framework for Malaysia’s technology agenda through six main thrusts and 40 initiatives aimed at improving research and development (R&D) coordination.
Malaysia targets to raise R&D expenditure to 2.5% of GDP, with 70% to be driven by the private sector, alongside a goal of 200 researchers, scientists, engineers and technologists for every 10,000 workers.
Malaysia ranked 34th in the 2025 Global Innovation Index, while Kuala Lumpur climbed from 93rd to 86th among the world’s top science clusters.
Chang said MOSTI agencies, including the Malaysian Institute of Microelectronic Systems Berhad (Mimos), play a key role in supporting R&D, technology transfer and talent development.
Mimos’ Semiconductor Technology Centre now provides international testing and reliability facilities, while the Mimos Junior Academy promotes early science education among youth.
“This journey cannot be achieved by the government alone. Public–private collaboration is key, bringing together government policy, industry expertise and academic knowledge under one shared mission,” Chang said.
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