Science and Technology Innovation for the Nation
MADANI Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Grant
The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) has announced the award of MADANI Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Grant worth RM10,000 to parliamentary constituencies, regardless of political background. The allocation will be channelled through the Implementation Coordination Unit (ICU) of the Prime Minister’s Department to the offices of Members of Parliament (MPs), expected in the first half of this year.
Eligibility and Objectives
However, the funds will not be channelled to those who hold positions such as Ministers, Deputy Ministers or Menteri Besar (as they have larger allocations). The grant is to help MPs implement STI-related programs in their respective constituencies for primary or secondary school students or the local community.
ASEAN Space Economy
Earlier in his speech on the direction of MOSTI, Minister Chang Lih Kang announced that MOSTI will lead the ASEAN Space Economy, a moonshot program, a national mega project. This regional space economy will drive the development of other sectors such as agriculture, communications, transportation, and education, as well as developing downstream industries such as rare earth elements (REE) to produce products such as supermagnets.
Potential and Benefits
According to Chang, with a combination of strategic location, technological expertise, strong policies, and international cooperation, Malaysia is in the best position to become the leader of the space economy in ASEAN, as a holistic approach will not only provide economic benefits but also contribute to technological advancement and sustainable development in the region. A comprehensive mapping of the moonshot project needs to be detailed to know the actual resource requirements needed.
MOSTI’s Role and Initiatives
Chang said that MOSTI will continue to play a role as a key collaborator in advancing technology and innovation, with a focus on strategic sectors that can strengthen the country’s economy. Among the main sectors that will be given attention are REE, artificial intelligence (AI), and green technology, which are aimed at attracting international investment as well as to develop sustainable technologies that can address global challenges such as climate change and food security.
Sustainability and Governance
MOSTI is also committed to ensuring innovations that directly benefit the people, especially through the implementation of initiatives such as Kampung Angkat MADANI, which aim to bring technological solutions to rural areas. The ministry will strengthen its communication strategy to raise public awareness of the importance of science, technology, and innovation (STI) in daily life.
Governance and Monitoring
Touching on the governance aspect, Chang said he had asked MOSTI secretary-general Datuk Dr Aminuddin Hassim to hold briefings every six months on the implementation of all MOSTI roadmaps. "Meanwhile, high-impact specific projects such as the Mobile Hydrogen Refueling Station (MHRS), Remote Sensing Satellites, and vaccine development need to be reported on their progress every three months," he said.
FAQs
- What is the purpose of the MADANI Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Grant?
The grant is to help MPs implement STI-related programs in their respective constituencies for primary or secondary school students or the local community. - Who is eligible for the grant?
The grant is open to all parliamentary constituencies, regardless of political background, except for those who hold positions such as Ministers, Deputy Ministers or Menteri Besar. - What are the main sectors that will be given attention by MOSTI?
REE, artificial intelligence (AI), and green technology. - How will MOSTI ensure the effective implementation of its initiatives?
Through the Implementation Coordination Unit (ICU) of the Prime Minister’s Department and regular briefings with MOSTI secretary-general.