KUALA LUMPUR: More than 40 think tanks and research institutions in Malaysia have agreed to strengthen research integrity, public trust, talent development and funding sustainability amid growing adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and changing policy demands.
The resolutions were reached at the Malaysia Think Tank Forum 2026: Room to Think, jointly organised by PNB Research Institute (PNBRI), the Institute for Democracy and Economic Affairs (IDEAS) and On Think Tanks (OTT).
In a statement, PNBRI said the forum provided a platform for research institutions to discuss challenges facing the sector, including shifting funding models, advances in generative AI and growing demand for evidence-based policymaking.
Participants identified the need for internal AI policies to establish common standards for usage and disclosure, alongside measures to strengthen institutional credibility and public trust.
They also called for stronger leadership development programmes and diversified funding through partnerships with the public, private and philanthropic sectors.
PNBRI chairman Hanizan Hood said the forum marked a step towards greater collaboration among Malaysia's research institutions.
"Malaysia's think tank and research community is rich in expertise and diversity. Today is about creating a space for everyone to come together and compare perspectives.
"This forum is a step towards building an enduring platform to exchange perspectives and explore opportunities for collaboration," he said.
Meanwhile, IDEAS board member Tan Sri Dr Rebecca Fatima Sta Maria said think tanks must play a greater role in helping governments anticipate emerging policy challenges.
"Governments therefore need institutions that do more than explain yesterday's challenges. They need institutions that help anticipate those of tomorrow.
"But that requires effort from both sides. Think tanks must understand the realities and constraints of governments, while governments must remain open to challenge before positions become fixed and decisions become irreversible," she said.
The forum also featured insights from OTT founder and director Enrique Mendizabal on developments in the global think tank landscape.
Participants agreed on the importance of stronger institutional networks to improve knowledge sharing and increase the impact of policy research.
