KUCHING – Deputy Prime Minister Dato Sri Fadillah Yusof has declared that Malaysia must transform from a consumer nation into a global producer of innovative products and technologies.
He emphasized that innovation is the critical key to achieving developed nation status and enhancing international competitiveness.
He made these remarks on Sunday following the launch of the Malaysian Innovation Foundation Innovation Trail at Surau Al-Amin in Kampung Gita, Petra Jaya.
Fadillah stated that the nation possesses significant talent and strength in science and technology, but this potential must be fully harnessed.
He urged a national shift towards developing original processes and ideas that can address challenges both domestically and worldwide.
The Deputy Premier highlighted initiatives like the Social Innovation Trail, implemented by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI), as vital platforms.
These programs are designed to help identify, disseminate, and commercialize innovations originating from within local communities.
Fadillah stressed the importance of expanding collaborative networks to provide opportunities for grassroots innovators, ensuring their ideas can be developed and brought to market.