Latest news with #TechnologyandInnovationMinistry
The Sun
31-07-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Malaysia to table Atomic Bill amendments
PETALING JAYA: Malaysia is stepping up its push into nuclear energy, as the Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry (Mosti) prepares to propose key amendments to the Atomic Energy Bill – a move aimed at reinforcing the nation's nuclear regulatory framework. Minister Chang Lih Kang said the move reflects Malaysia's commitment to exploring nuclear as a future energy source, alongside early progress in thorium (a radioactive metallic element) extraction. 'A pre-feasibility study on nuclear energy has been completed. Initial findings show strong potential for Malaysia to pursue this path,' he said in response to Kuala Terengganu MP Datuk Haji Ahmad Amzad Mohamed @ Hashim (PN). Following the study, six technical task forces were proposed – three of which are led by Mosti. They focus on technology and industrial development, nuclear skills and expertise and the legal-regulatory structure. Chang also previously confirmed that the Atomic Energy Licensing Act 1984 will be amended to support the next phase of development. Malaysia currently has 323 research officers at the Malaysian Nuclear Agency and 36 science officers at the Atomic Energy Department. Of these, 61 hold qualifications in nuclear science or engineering. 'This reflects our commitment to developing local talent to support safe and responsible use of nuclear technology.' Chang said international cooperation is also a core strategy. He said Malaysia is working closely with global agencies on technical training, joint research, technology transfer and capacity building nuclear science. 'On July 10, we signed a strategic civil nuclear agreement with the United States. This is a major catalyst for long-term collaboration on Malaysia's civil nuclear ambitions.' Malaysia is also pursuing similar partnerships with China and Russia to build capacity in nuclear power generation. 'The partnerships will give us access to cutting-edge expertise, proven technologies and best practices, which are critical for building our infrastructure and local industry.' Chang added that Malaysia collaborates with the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organisation to detect nuclear weapons tests and use scientific data for natural disaster monitoring, including earthquakes and tsunamis. Malaysia also maintains strong ties with the International Atomic Energy Agency through technical cooperation, regional agreements and research collaborations under the Asian Nuclear Cooperation Forum. Beyond power generation, Chang said nuclear technology is already being used to tackle environmental and climate challenges.
The Star
27-07-2025
- Politics
- The Star
A commitment to cooperation
Malaysia, through the Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry (Mosti), will accede to the Outer Space Treaties under the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (Uncopuos). The decision was made during the Cabinet meeting on June 25, a press release from Mosti read. Two of the five Outer Space Treaties to be ratified and acceded to are the 'Treaty on Principles Governing the Activities of States in the Exploration and Use of Outer Space, Including the Moon and Other Celestial Bodies' (OST 1967) and the 'Convention on Registration of Objects Launched into Outer Space' (REG 1975). This is a continuation of the full enforcement of the Malaysian Space Board Act 2022 [Act 834] on Jan 1 this year, where the country now has a holistic and robust domestic space legal framework for the government to accede to these Outer Space Treaties in line with the interests of national space industry development. The Outer Space Treaties have laid the foundation of international space law, outlining key principles such as the exploration and use of the outer space for the benefit of all nations solely for peaceful purposes, and prohibiting the use of space platforms for military purposes. The Cabinet's approval will enable Mosti, through the Space Regulatory Division (BPAngkasa), to initiate local and international procedures together with the Foreign Affairs Ministry to finalise Malaysia's ratification and accession process. Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Chang Lih Kang (pic) said the accession is a historic step that could elevate the country's position as a responsible nation in the international space arena, in line with the principles of Act 834. This initiative also aligns with the nation's aspiration to become an active and responsible player in the global space sector, in accordance with Thrust 5 of the National Space Policy 2030 (DAN2030), which is to enhance and strengthen international cooperation and networks. Through this ratification, Malaysia will be able to voice its views on the importance of the space sector more effectively. This also reflects the country's commitment to support the peaceful and responsible use of the outer space, and ensuring its sustainability. This strategic step, which aims to protect national interests and ensure Malaysia is prepared to face challenges and seize opportunities in the rapidly growing global space sector, will enhance the country's reputation as an emerging space nation and open up more potential for participating in various international space programmes. Mosti also hopes that this will advance and boost the national space sector through international collaboration and cooperation to achieve the targets set by the National Space Policy 2030 Action Plan and realise Malaysia's vision as a high-tech nation by 2030.
The Star
20-07-2025
- Business
- The Star
AI roadmap by 3Q this year
Innovative technology: Gobind (left) visiting a booth after launching the National AI Competition 2025 at Sunway University in Selangor. — Bernama PETALING JAYA: A National Artificial Intelligence Roadmap that outlines a five-year plan is expected to be launched by the third quarter this year, said Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo. According to Gobind, the national AI roadmap from 2026 to 2030 is expected to have an entire chapter on AI education, and his ministry will be speaking to different sectors after the announcement. 'The document is ready. 'However, we anticipate launching it in the third quarter of this year,' said Gobind after he launched the National AI Competition 2025 at Sunway University yesterday. Gobind also said it is important to spread awareness about AI education, as it could foster interest in technology adoption among students. 'So, we will look at what data can be digitised and used to strengthen our education system,' said Gobind, adding that the national AI roadmap will focus on all sectors, and different ministries will be involved for that purpose. 'Different ministries will deal with different sectors, such as health and transportation, among others,' he said. Gobind said his ministry will also get feedback from other ministries on the issues faced by the country's sectors. 'We will devise a plan to overcome these challenges. 'One of the key areas is to ensure that we build talent that is able to optimise the potential of technology as we move forward,' he said. At the same time, Gobind said Malaysians should look at the use of generative AI such as ChatGPT as a form of innovation that can better their lives. 'Like it or not, technology will continue developing, and in this journey, we will see more innovations that can better our lives,' he said. In 2021, the Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry announced the National AI Roadmap 2021-2025, which outlined frameworks in agriculture, healthcare and education. Meanwhile, Gobind said over 2,500 students participated in the National AI Competition 2025, and more higher learning institutions should organise competitions as such. 'This is important because this is a platform where we can see how the technology is used and how it can benefit us,' said Gobind. 'This event gives important exposure to students, and I hope after this, every student will bring this message to their friends and family members that it is time to ensure that the nation is AI-ready.'
The Star
19-07-2025
- Business
- The Star
National AI roadmap 2026-2030 to launch by Q3, says Gobind
PETALING JAYA: A National Artificial Intelligence Roadmap, outlining a five-year plan, is expected to be launched by the third quarter of this year, said Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo. Gobind stated that the roadmap for 2026 to 2030 will feature an entire chapter on AI education, and his ministry will engage with various sectors after the announcement. "The document is ready. But we expect to launch it perhaps in the third quarter this year, in the next couple of months," said Gobind after launching an event at Sunway University on Saturday (July 19). Gobind emphasised the importance of spreading awareness about AI education to foster interest in technology adoption among students. "We will look at what data can be digitised and used to strengthen our education system," said Gobind. The national AI roadmap will focus on all sectors, with different ministries involved for that purpose. "Different ministries will deal with different sectors such as health, transport, and others," he added. Gobind also mentioned that his ministry will seek feedback from other ministries on challenges faced by various sectors in the country. "We will devise a plan to overcome these challenges. One key area is to ensure we build talent capable of optimising the potential of technology as we progress," he said. Meanwhile, Gobind encouraged Malaysians to view the use of generative AI, such as ChatGPT, as an innovation that can enhance their lives. "Like it or not, technology will continue developing, and in this journey, we will see more innovations that can better our lives," added Gobind. In 2021, the Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry announced the National AI Roadmap 2021-2025, which outlined frameworks in agriculture, healthcare, and education.
New Straits Times
14-07-2025
- Automotive
- New Straits Times
Repurposing ICE cars to EVs
KUALA LUMPUR: Converting internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles into electric vehicles (EVs) could provide Malaysia with a powerful alternative path to green mobility while unlocking thousands of skilled jobs across the automotive ecosystem. NanoMalaysia Bhd chief executive officer Dr. Rezal Khairi Ahmad said the retrofitting approach, spearheaded under the company's Revive programme, presents a compelling case for affordability, socio-economic impact and technological self-reliance. "Research has done it and has proven time and time again that the cost of conversion is cheaper. "It provides an alternative and more cost-effective path to electrification and ownership, 60 per cent of that is buying a new, fully assembled, manufactured car. He said this greatly reduces the entry barrier for ordinary Malaysians looking to switch to EVs, especially as current prices remain unaffordable for ma Rather than relying solely on the sale of fully manufactured EVs, NanoMalaysia's strategy targets the vast number of older, structurally sound ICE vehicles on the road. By removing the engine and fuel tank and replacing them with an electric motor and battery system, these vehicles can be revived and repurposed to operate on clean energy. "When you allow for conversion to take place, for example, in Malaysia, it allows the workforce in Malaysia to participate in that migration from the traditional car to EV. "This creates job opportunities for technicians, mechanics and technical and vocational education and training (TVET) graduates. It also creates jobs for the future, which allow for them to not become just drivers of EVs, but they can actually change and convert. "It will provide employment opportunities, skills and hands-on opportunities for those who are pretty much hands-on," Rezal said in an exclusive interview. He said the process would demand new skill sets in battery installation, wiring, electric motor integration and system diagnostics, positioning Malaysia to develop a new class of green-collar workers. Yielding Results The Revive programme, which catalysed the development of a comprehensive EV conversion white paper, is yielding results. NanoMalaysia said it had converted two buses under the eMERGE initiative, funded by the Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry and is working to finalise road certification with the Road Transport Department (JPJ) and Transport Ministry. "That is an example of how we align to our Revive goal, which allows us to validate and demonstrate the conversion from diesel engine to EV. We have those two buses donated from Prasarana," said Rezal. Rezal said several stakeholders are working together to establish standards and safety protocols to ensure Malaysia aligns with global best practices. "At present, there are no universal standards for EV conversions. Each country, whether Thailand, Indonesia, the US, UK or China, has developed its own version of standards and complies accordingly. "One thing is certain: we must ensure electrical safety. All components must be properly insulated, and passengers must be fully protected from any electrical systems. "In the Malaysian context, we also have to consider challenges like flooding. Whatever we develop must be flood-resistant. These are among the key factors we need to localise," he said. Despite technical progress, Rezal said full-scale deployment hinges on regulatory green lights. "We have submitted the white paper, proven the technology and engaged stakeholders. Now we are waiting for JPJ and the Transport Ministry to finalise approval to make conversions road-legal," he added. Once legalised, insurance companies will also need to come on board to support vehicle coverage and ensure public confidence in safety standards. Rezal said the model aligns with Malaysia's broader green agenda, including commitments under COP26 to reduce carbon intensity by 45 per cent by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. Support System To support the transition, NanoMalaysia is pushing for public-private partnerships and potential incentives, similar to what Indonesia has done, to encourage adoption. "If conversion kits are incentivised, it would help accelerate the shift. The government has a role to play here," he said. Globally, countries like Japan, France and Kenya have already embraced EV conversions as a viable strategy. Thailand and Indonesia have also legalised retrofitting, showing how developing nations can leapfrog into the EV space without heavy reliance on imported, fully-built EVs. Rezal explained that in Kenya, where there is strong support for EV retrofitting, studies have shown that the total cost of owning and operating a converted EV, from diesel or petrol to electric, is about US$0.25 per kilometre for four-wheelers. In comparison, running a newly-purchased EV costs around US$0.30 per kilometer, giving retrofitted vehicles a five-cent advantage. He added that countries like the United States have legalised EV conversions, but primarily for niche applications driven by private investment. So while it is permitted, it remains limited in scope. "Japan has officially legislated EV conversions, and even original equipment manufacturers like Toyota now offer ready-made kits that can be purchased off the shelf. "Instead of buying a brand-new EV from Toyota or Honda, consumers can opt for these kits to convert their existing vehicles. This approach is seen as a key pillar in the broader push for vehicle electrification," he said. Rezal explained that the philosophy behind this is rooted in the 'people, planet, profit' framework, ensuring not just profitability, but also accessibility. "France has also adopted this approach, and among our regional neighbours, Indonesia and Thailand have already begun implementing similar initiatives. In Malaysia, we are pushing forward aggressively because we see a real opportunity to lead in this space." However, Rezal said Malaysia has a competitive edge in terms of technology. "Other countries are buying components entirely from China. In our case, we are building Malaysian-made batteries, electronics and cooling systems. We may still import some motors, but we are pushing for localisation across the board," he said. This opens doors not only for domestic market transformation but also for export opportunities. "We hope our kits, built with local components, can be sold to other Asean countries and potentially beyond. But first, we must focus on making it work here in Malaysia," he added.
