JOHOR BAHRU: The RM14.4 billion allocated by the government for research purposes under Budget 2021 is bound to have a significant impact on the overall national research ecosystem.
With an increase of 13.15 per cent from the previous allocation, it is expected to boost the development of science and technology in the country, said Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) deputy vice-chancellor (Research and Innovation) Prof Datuk Dr Ahmad Fauzi Ismail. Ahmad Fauzi, who is currently serving as the vice-chancellor, said out of the eight key budget initiatives tabled, there were several initiatives that specifically encouraged research.
“These are the government’s efforts to help public universities excel by ensuring that research results can be shared with both local and overseas communities,” he said in a statement here today.
The RM400 million allocation to carry out research and development (R&D) will have a big impact on science, technology and innovation. “The government also supports the efforts of 20 local public universities by providing tax incentive for the commercialisation of non-resourcebased R&D products.
“It will also be extended to all private institutions of higher learning in an effort to further strengthen the research ecosystem in Malaysia,” he said.
Ahmad Fauzi said what was more interesting about the budget this time was the government’s concern regarding infrastructure facilities and existing research equipment, which were generally in a dilapidated condition and in need of maintenance. “Therefore, the allocation of RM50 million for repairing infrastructure and outdated equipment in public universities will further strengthen research facilities in Malaysia,” he added.
Ahmad Fauzi said the Industry4WRD policy will be emphasised under the RM20 million allocation for the Malaysia Techlympics dan Science Space which will focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics among the youths. This would indirectly increase the marketability of graduates in line with the 4th Industrial Revolution (IR4.0). – Bernama
He believes that with the various initiatives that have been put forward by the government to help in the context of research, it will certainly produce researchers as well as boost national research plans that are more beneficial in line with the country’s needs.
