Latest news with #TechnologyandInnovationPolicy
The Star
01-08-2025
- Health
- The Star
Amway and Monash University collaborate to tackle gut health and chronic disease
Chang (centre) witnessing the signing of the Master Research Agreement between Anway Malaysia and Monash University Malaysia representatives in Kuala Lumpur. KUALA LUMPUR: In a major step forward for Malaysia's health and wellbeing landscape, Amway Malaysia and Monash University Malaysia have signed a three-year Master Research Agreement (MRA) to advance microbiome science in the fight against non-communicable diseases (NCDs) — a leading cause of death and disability in Malaysia. The pioneering initiative will specifically explore how targeted nutrition can improve gut health and help reduce the risk of chronic lifestyle diseases and NCDs such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease and mood disorders. The gut microbiome plays a vital role in digestion, immunity, metabolism and mental well-being, with NCDs estimated to affect one-third of Malaysians and cause nearly 72% of all premature deaths, making them the leading cause of death and disability in the country. The initiative is closely aligned with the objectives of Malaysia's National Science, Technology and Innovation Policy (NSTIP), which seeks to build a more competitive and socially responsible STI ecosystem. By supporting public health efforts and delivering impactful, community-level solutions, the collaboration reflects NSTIP's core vision of 'Innovation for Well-Being', a commitment to advancing science that brings direct benefits to the people. The signing ceremony was witnessed by the Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Chang Lih Kang. Meanwhile, representing Amway Malaysia at the ceremony was its general manager (Malaysia and Brunei) Jason Leng, while Monash University Malaysia was represented by its vice president (research and development) Prof Datuk Dr Faisal Rafiq Mahamd Adikan. 'This MRA will enable advanced scientific testing and clinical insights to guide the development of future wellness solutions. By combining Monash University's scientific expertise with Amway's long-standing investment in nutrition and innovation, we are setting the foundation for research that can truly impact lives by developing solutions tailored to the Malaysian population's gut microbiome and health profile,' said Leng. Led by Monash University's Dr Chong Chun Wei and Dr Lim Wei Meng, the research will examine how ingredients such as plant protein combinations, fiber combinations, probiotics, postbiotics and phytonutrients affect gut balance, nutrient absorption, inflammation and metabolic health. 'This research applies rigorous scientific methods to uncover how specific nutrients influence the gut microbiome and gut integrity and elucidate related metabolic pathways, with the goal of informing evidence-based strategies to prevent and manage lifestyle diseases,' said Dr Chong. One collaboration study will look at how a mix of soy protein, fiber, probiotics and other gut-friendly ingredients can help improve digestion, support good bacteria, reduce inflammation and strengthen the immune system. At the same time, another study will explore how these ingredients — both on their own and combined — can help keep the gut barrier healthy and support overall metabolism. 'At Amway Malaysia, we have always believed in enabling people to live better, healthier lives. Since our establishment in 1976, our journey has evolved tremendously, from offering basic nutrition solutions to now championing a much more holistic view of health and wellbeing. 'As we approach our 50th anniversary next year, this milestone invites us to reflect on how far we've come. Today, we are proud to be at the forefront of science-backed health innovations. We have moved from being product providers to being partners in people's wellbeing journeys, while empowering lives,' said Leng. For more information on this partnership, visit .
BusinessToday
31-07-2025
- Business
- BusinessToday
Malaysia Targets 98% 5G And 5,000 Tech Entrepreneurs By 2030
Malaysia has set its sights on becoming a regional leader in the digital economy and green technology by 2030, with a strong emphasis on artificial intelligence (AI) adoption and digital infrastructure development under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP). Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the National Artificial Intelligence Action Plan 2030 will serve as the catalyst for driving the country's AI ecosystem, with a focus on local technological innovations to develop strategic digital assets such as AI, data analytics and government digital systems. 'This effort is crucial to strengthen the nation's economic competitiveness, while developing a more sustainable and high-impact industry in line with the aspiration of becoming an AI-driven nation,' he told the Dewan Rakyat when tabling the 13MP today. The government aims to enhance digital infrastructure to attract strategic investments, particularly in data centres, while ensuring broader access to digital services across sectors including education, e-commerce and smart applications. Anwar said Malaysia is targeting 5G coverage of 98% in populated and industrial areas, including rural regions, by 2030 to accelerate AI adoption and nurture at least 5,000 new digital entrepreneurs. To secure the digital ecosystem, a national data security strategy will be introduced, covering digital trust frameworks, quantum communication technologies and regulatory strengthening through the creation of a Data Commission and a national data bank. Key national strategies such as the Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint, National Science, Technology and Innovation Policy and 4IR Policy will be prioritised to deliver direct benefits to businesses and the people. Additionally, the government plans to introduce a Business Digital Identity system and promote 'digital twin' applications to boost industrial competitiveness. AI literacy programmes will start at primary school level, complemented by initiatives to expand local intellectual property, increase strategic funding and encourage cross-sector collaborations. 'This approach will ensure the country's innovation ecosystem grows comprehensively and delivers long-term returns to the economy and the people,' Anwar said.
Barnama
08-07-2025
- Science
- Barnama
Malaysia Introduces Astronomy Module For Students With Visual Disabilities
KUALA LUMPUR, July 7 (Bernama) -- Students with visual impairments in this country are now able to 'explore' space after the launch of the Special Astronomy Module for them. Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Chang Lih Kang said the module, a collaboration between the National Planetarium and Hibiscus Petroleum Berhad, is an important initiative towards making science and technology education more inclusive, especially in the field of astronomy. "This module is specially designed to be used in schools that have students with special needs, especially those with visual impairments, thus making astronomy education more accessible and not limited to those with perfect vision," he said when launching the module at the National Planetarium here today. Also present were the secretary-general of the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation Datuk Seri Hasnol Zam Zam Ahmad, director of National Planetarium Mohd Zamri Shah Mastor and chairman of Hibiscus Petroleum Berhad Zainul Rahim Mohd Zain. Chang said a total of 12 schools had been identified as recipients of the initial phase of the module through the Inclusive Astronomy Transit Programme. He said the module used tactile models as the surface of the sun and the solar system, supported by narrative audio and sound effects that allowed the learning experience to be more comprehensive. "With appropriate technological support and continuous improvement, this inclusive Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) culture can have a great impact on all levels of society, including the disabled community who are often marginalised in this field," he said. Chang said the initiative was in line with the principle of inclusiveness outlined in the National Science, Technology and Innovation Policy as well as the concept of Malaysia MADANI which emphasises fair access to education for all. He also hoped that more collaborations between the government and the private sector could be implemented to help children who face physical constraints to pursue knowledge so that they would not be left out of the national education stream.
The Sun
07-07-2025
- Science
- The Sun
Malaysia launches astronomy module for visually impaired
KUALA LUMPUR: Students with visual disabilities in Malaysia can now engage in astronomy through a newly launched module designed specifically for them. The initiative, a collaboration between the National Planetarium and Hibiscus Petroleum Berhad, aims to make science education more inclusive. Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Chang Lih Kang highlighted the module's importance in breaking barriers for visually impaired learners. 'This module is tailored for schools with special needs students, ensuring astronomy education is accessible beyond those with perfect vision,' he said during the launch at the National Planetarium. The module features tactile models of the sun and solar system, accompanied by audio descriptions and sound effects for an immersive learning experience. Chang noted that 12 schools have been selected for the initial phase under the Inclusive Astronomy Transit Programme. The project aligns with Malaysia's National Science, Technology and Innovation Policy and the Malaysia MADANI vision, which advocates equal educational opportunities. Chang also encouraged more public-private partnerships to support students with disabilities in pursuing knowledge.
The Star
07-07-2025
- Science
- The Star
Malaysia introduces astronomy module for students with visual disabilities
KUALA LUMPUR: Students with visual impairments in this country can now 'explore' space following the introduction of the Special Astronomy Module designed for them. Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Chang Lih Kang said the module was a collaboration between the National Planetarium and Hibiscus Petroleum Berhad. "This module is specially designed to be used in schools that have students with special needs, especially those with visual impairments," he said when launching the module at the National Planetarium here Monday (July 7). Also present were the secretary-general of the Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry Datuk Seri Hasnol Zam Zam Ahmad, National Planetarium director Mohd Zamri Shah Mastor and Hibiscus Petroleum Berhad chairman Zainul Rahim Mohd Zain. Chang said 12 schools had been identified as recipients of the initial phase of the module through the Inclusive Astronomy Transit Programme. He said the module used tactile models of the sun and the solar system, supported by narrative audio and sound effects, which allowed the learning experience to be more comprehensive. "With appropriate technological support and continuous improvement, this inclusive Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) culture can have a great impact on all levels of society, including the disabled community who are often marginalised in this field," he said. Chang said the initiative was in line with the principle of inclusiveness outlined in the National Science, Technology and Innovation Policy as well as the concept of Malaysia Madani, which emphasises fair access to education for all. He also hoped that more collaborations between the government and the private sector could be implemented to help children who face physical constraints to pursue knowledge so that they would not be left out of the national education stream. – Bernama
