KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 27 2026 — Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim today called for stronger commercialisation of university research and faster innovation as he launched the National Innovation and Commercialisation Expo (NICE) 2026.
Speaking at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Anwar said innovation must be treated as a core economic driver rather than remaining confined to laboratories. Research findings “should not stop at the laboratory or on paper,” he posted, and must instead be developed and commercialised through tighter collaboration between universities, government-linked investment companies, industry, the private sector and investors.
The three-day expo, running from Aug 26–28 under the theme “Mission to Market: Malaysia to the World,” is organised by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) together with MRANTI. It features more than 180 innovations across sectors including deep tech, healthtech and bioeconomy.
Anwar stressed that the issue is not simply the amount of funding available but how existing resources, expertise and capacity are used. “The question is not just how much funding is provided, but to what extent the existing funds, expertise and capacity are optimally utilised, with good governance, so as to produce real benefits and value to the country,” he said.
He also warned that outdated bureaucratic processes must be dismantled. The Prime Minister cited the recent establishment of artificial intelligence faculties at several universities, which was completed in three months instead of the usual year-long process of senate and council approvals. “How can we follow the old bureaucracy? It is not possible,” he said, urging ministries to adopt greater speed and flexibility.
Looking ahead, Anwar said the government would increase research allocations in Budget 2027, due to be tabled in early October. At the same time he cautioned that spending must remain prudent given limited tax revenues. He added that Malaysia should aim not only to produce goods “Made in Malaysia” but innovations “Made by Malaysia” that can compete internationally.
In a rapidly changing landscape of artificial intelligence, quantum technology and other emerging fields, Anwar said the country must build its own capabilities rather than remain a consumer of foreign technology. “We do not want to just be technology users, but also be able to create, master and utilise it for the country’s future,” he stated.
He reminded the audience that technological progress should stay grounded in Malaysian values and the needs of the people. “While we reach for the skies, we must remain rooted to the ground,” Anwar said.
The Prime Minister later toured exhibition booths, inspecting locally developed products ranging from specialised footwear to health supplements. The event continues until Friday.
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