KUALA LUMPUR: Innovations must translate into solutions that will deliver better outcomes to patients, says Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Chang Lih Kang.
Citing wound care as an example, Chang said effective care extends beyond just treating the wound but also includes prevention, early intervention, diagnosis, clinical management, rehabilitation, patient education and long-term quality of life.
“Improving standards therefore requires us to generate new knowledge, translate research into clinical practice and develop innovations that respond to real-world needs,” he said at the World Union of Wound Healing Societies 2026 Congress yesterday.
The ministry, he said, is working to strengthen the research, development, commercialisation and innovation ecosystem.
“At Mosti, we believe that research should not remain confined to laboratories, universities or scientific publications.
“Research must ultimately create impact.
“It must be translated into solutions that improve lives, strengthen our healthcare system, enhance productivity and contribute to economic growth,” he said.
He said healthcare is an important frontier for science and innovation, particularly as the country responds to an ageing population, chronic diseases and growing demand for better and more personalised care.
“This is why Mosti continues to strengthen Malaysia’s capabilities in areas such as biotechnology, genomics, artificial intelligence, advanced materials and digital health, with the aim of developing technologies that support better diagnosis, monitoring and treatment,” he said.
One example is the MyGenom initiative, which is strengthening Malaysia’s capabilities in genomic science and precision health by building genomic data that better represents our own population.
“This is important because advances in genomics can support a better understanding of disease risks and, over time, contribute towards more precise approaches to prevention, diagnosis and treatment,” he added.
At a press conference later, Chang said the ministry continues to support local innovators to market their product through funding assistance and by supporting research efforts.
“One of our priorities is we want to see more Research and Development products entering the market,” he said.
