Anwar Ibrahim calls for Malaysia to master own technology

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has emphasized that Malaysia must transition from being a mere consumer of foreign technology to a nation that creates, owns, and masters its own technological advancements. Speaking via a speech delivered by Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Chang Lih Kang at the National Science Challenge (NSC) 2026 finals, the Prime Minister noted that the country is at a critical juncture in its development.

Addressing challenges such as food security, energy supply, public health, water security, climate change, and the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI), Anwar stated that these issues require robust knowledge and evidence-based decision-making. He highlighted the need for science education to move beyond rote learning toward critical thinking and integrity.

While STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) participation has increased from 40.95 percent in 2021 to 50.83 percent in 2024, the Prime Minister noted a gap in pure science enrollment, which remains at approximately 15.8 percent. He called for a collaborative effort between the government, schools, universities, industry, and the community to ensure young talents are identified and supported to succeed in these fields.