Malaysia has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening cooperation with China in the fields of science, technology, and innovation (STI) through a new memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed between the Academy of Sciences Malaysia (ASM) and the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS).
During the signing ceremony on Monday (Dec 9), Science, Technology, and Innovation Minister Chang Li Kang expressed optimism about the continuation of research excellence under the Malaysia-China Joint Research Programme 2025. This initiative includes the second phase of the Strategic Research Fund-Request for Proposal (SRF-RFP).
The collaboration opens avenues for potential matching grants through the Malaysia Science Endowment (MSE), aimed at integrating research with industry to drive demand-focused and market-oriented research and development (R&D).
“Key areas of exploration under the SRF-RFP include energy storage technology, human vaccines, space technology, artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and advanced material technology,” Chang stated at the event.
Expanding Research Horizons
The MOU seeks to broaden the partnership between ASM and CAS to encompass emerging fields like neurotechnology, agriculture, AI, and renewable energy. It was signed by ASM President Datuk Dr. Tengku Mohd Azzman Shariffadeen and CAS Vice-President Prof. Hongping He, with Chang serving as a witness.
Building on a memorandum of agreement (MOA) initially signed in 1999, the renewed MOU reflects a reinforced commitment to advancing joint research initiatives and leveraging scientific progress for mutual benefit.
Chang highlighted the ministry’s anticipation of future mission-oriented R&D projects between the two academies, particularly in shared interest areas such as artificial intelligence.
Shared Vision for Global Challenges
Tengku Mohd Azzman, who also serves as STI advisor to the Prime Minister, emphasized that the MOU underscores the shared vision of ASM and CAS to harness scientific advancements for the betterment of global society. The collaboration aims to enhance joint research, encourage knowledge sharing, and foster international partnerships to tackle pressing global issues.
Prof. Hongping He expressed hope for deeper cooperation between the two nations, stating that such collaborations are vital for addressing emerging technological challenges. He added, “Scientific and technological cooperation is integral to China-Malaysia relations and a key driver of global scientific and technological progress.”
This renewed partnership signifies a strategic step forward in fostering innovation and advancing scientific endeavors for the benefit of both nations and the global community.