Malaysia Must Become a Creator and Owner of Technology, Says Science Minister Chang Lih Kang

Kuala Lumpur, 28 October 2026 – Malaysia must move beyond being a user and manufacturer of technologies developed overseas and strengthen its position as a creator and owner of intellectual property, said Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Datuk Chang Lih Kang. Speaking at a business agreement signing ceremony involving a Malaysian advanced-materials company and a United States-based construction partner on Wednesday, he highlighted the commercialisation of locally developed copper-based technology as an example of Malaysian innovation seeking international market opportunities.

For Malaysian businesses and investors, the development underscores the importance of moving higher up the industrial value chain. Rather than relying primarily on manufacturing and assembly, companies that develop proprietary technologies can potentially capture greater economic value through intellectual property, specialised engineering, international partnerships and higher-skilled employment. However, translating research into commercial success requires technical validation, market acceptance and sustained investment.