KUALA LUMPUR: The Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry is accelerating Malaysia’s transition into a regional innovation hub by strengthening the technology commercialisation ecosystem.
Minister Datuk Chang Lih Kang said this effort is being driven through key initiatives such as the National Technology and Innovation Sandbox (NTIS) and the Malaysia Research Accelerator for Technology and Innovation (Mranti).
"This year, the ministry's focus is to accelerate Malaysia's transition from a technology user into a technology creator and exporter," he said when officiating the Malaysia Technology Expo (MTE) 2026 in Kuala Lumpur on Friday (April 10).
"This includes strengthening our commercialisation ecosystem through platforms such as NTIS and Mranti, where more than 80 technologies have been supported with a value exceeding RM150mil," he added.
Chang noted that these initiatives are essential to ensure that innovation delivers tangible benefits to the economy and the rakyat.
On the role of MTE, he said the expo complements national efforts by providing a platform that connects key stakeholders across the innovation ecosystem.
"MTE reflects Malaysia's broader aspirations in science, technology and innovation.
"By connecting government, academia, industry and society, it helps bridge the gap between research and commercialisation, ensuring that innovation delivers real value to the economy and rakyat," he said.
He added that since its establishment in 2001, MTE has grown into one of the region’s most respected platforms for innovation, invention and technology commercialisation.
"Over the past two and a half decades, MTE has enabled thousands of innovators, researchers and institutions to bring ideas from lab to market, contributing meaningfully to Malaysia's development," he said.
Chang highlighted that MTE 2026 attracted participation from more than 10 countries, including Malaysia, Indonesia, Poland, Iran, Thailand, South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Saudi Arabia and China.
"This reflects strong international confidence in Malaysia's innovation ecosystem.
"Global collaboration is increasingly important as countries with strong international R&D networks tend to achieve higher innovation outcomes," he said.
Chang emphasised that MTE serves not only as a national platform but also as a gateway for Malaysia to engage with the global innovation community.
"MTE therefore serves not only as a national platform, but also as a gateway for Malaysia to engage globally.
"It has consistently demonstrated its role as a catalyst in this journey and its efforts are shaping not only innovation, but the future of our nation," he said.
