BANGI, January 31 — The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (Mosti) has launched the Madani Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) Grant, offering RM10,000 to parliamentary constituencies across Malaysia, regardless of political affiliation. Minister Chang Lih Kang announced that the funds, aimed at supporting STI-related programs for school students and local communities, will be disbursed through the Implementation Coordination Unit (ICU) of the Prime Minister’s Department.
These grants will not be provided to ministers, deputy ministers, or menteri besar, who have larger allocations. The funds will be audited to ensure proper utilization, fostering community participation in science and technology initiatives. Chang also outlined Mosti’s new national mega project, the ASEAN Space Economy, a moonshot initiative set to enhance sectors such as agriculture, communications, and transportation while driving the development of downstream industries like rare earth elements (REE).
He emphasized that Malaysia’s strategic location, technological expertise, and international cooperation make it well-positioned to lead ASEAN’s space economy, providing both economic and technological benefits. Additionally, Mosti is focusing on key sectors like REE, artificial intelligence, and green technology to attract international investments and promote sustainable development, with a commitment to supporting rural areas through technological initiatives.
