THE Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry (Mosti) is calling on aspiring researchers and passionate innovators to come forward and showcase their products at the National Innovation and Creative Economy (Nice) Expo next year.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of Nice Expo 2017, minister Datuk Seri Wilfred Madius Tangau said science and technology was fundamental for social progress and economic growth in developing countries such as Malaysia.
“There is so much potential seen in this year’s pool of creative innovators, and this is something we should encourage and develop in line with the National Transformation 2050 vision for a brighter future driven by innovation.
“This year, Nice Expo 2017 has again achieved our target of bringing creative innovations to light, providing a platform for researchers and innovators to come together and learn from each other, and raising awareness of science and technology among Malaysians,” he said.
However, Tangau said that no matter how good a proposal may be, it would be wasted if it is not realised or further developed.
“We have many brilliant minds who are able to come up with creative and innovative proposals and researches but it usually stops there after the work is published.
“Why not think of how you can expand on it and penetrate the market?
Tangau being briefed by Reka Inisiatif chief executive officer Haziq Faris Hasnol (left) on the prototype of Creta at the expo in Bukit Jalil. Looking on are Nanomalaysia chief executive officer Dr Rezal Khairi Ahmad (second from right), and Department of Standards director- general Datuk Fadilah Baharin (right). —Azman Ghani/The Star
“We urge aspiring researchers and innovators to do their research with a prototype and business model in mind so that it can be realised and contribute to the development of the economy, and ultimately, the nation,” Tangau added.
He said Mosti hoped to hold a bigger exhibition with more exhibitors showcasing exciting and innovative local products next year.
There were 219 exhibitors from the government and private sector, educational institutions and non-governmental organisations that showcased science, technology and innovation solutions.
Throughout the event, Mosti held many activities including a dialogue session discussing wealth creation through innovative research and development, and a forum co-organised with Mimos Bhd and Department of Standards Malaysia on “blockchain and distributed ledger technologies”.
To encourage innovators to penetrate the market, it also gave out funding to help them further expand their business models and implement their products.
Nice Expo 2017 was held at Technology Park Malaysia, the National Science Centre and the National Planetarium in Kuala Lumpur.
The event also gathered key speakers from the Technology, Edutainment, ICT, Wellness and Knowledge sectors which shared and discussed emerging trends, opportunities and challenges in science, technology and innovation.