While Malaysia is among the top one-third of nations in the Global Innovation Index 2025, he said, its R&D expenditure of just 1% of the national GDP is far behind the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development’s average of 2.4%.
Chang said researchers have also told him of their struggle to find industry partners, while the biggest hurdle startups face are funding and scaling.
He told FMT that Putrajaya has stepped in to help bridge these gaps, through the launch of the National Technology and Innovation Sandbox and Global Innovation Exchange, among others.
“But let me be clear: The government cannot do this alone. Innovation is not a ministry project, it is a national mission. We need ministries working in unison.
“We need companies that are willing to invest in R&D, even when the returns are not immediate. We need universities that are open to working with industry players, and we need communities that are open to new ideas,” he said.
With this in mind, the government is set to launch the National Research, Development, Innovation, Commercialisation and Economy (RDICE) Action Plan 2025–2030 at the National Innovation and Commercialisation Expo (NICE 2025) from Oct 6 to 9.
Chang said NICE 2025 will be the national stage for researchers, startups, corporations and young innovators to congregate to form partnerships, strike deals and inspire Malaysians.
“If you’re a student, come and see how innovation can shape your future. If you’re an entrepreneur, come and connect with funders and collaborators.
“If you’re a curious Malaysian, come and be inspired. Because this is not about government innovation – it is about our innovation,” he said.
Chang said he believes Malaysians are capable of competing with the best in the world by taking bold risks and believing in the value of their ideas.
He said innovation is not a mere buzzword but about how ideas can improve lives, whether in the health sector, agricultural fields or digital sphere.
“I often say that innovation is not about machines, it’s about people. It’s about us daring to imagine a better way of doing things, and then having the courage to try.
“Malaysia’s story is still being written, and every innovation, every breakthrough, every collaboration is a line in that story.
“So I invite you: join us at NICE 2025. See for yourself the ideas that are shaping Malaysia’s future. And more than that, be part of this journey,” he said.