Over 500 matched patents show Malaysia has innovation potential - Zambry

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's research and innovation ecosystem has achieved a significant milestone with over 500 matched patents valued at more than RM2 billion, according to the Malaysian R&D Commercialisation Portal. This development, involving more than 120 active missions, underscores the country's potential for innovation, as stated by Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir.

The milestone highlights Malaysia's abundance of researchers, ideas, and promising innovations, although many remain confined to university settings. Zambry unveiled a new platform at the University Research and Innovation Investment Summit 2026, aimed at bridging the gap between academic research and commercial market demands. This platform facilitates direct interaction between university researchers, industry, investors, and potential partners.

He urged local industry players to seek technological solutions within Malaysian universities instead of outsourcing to foreign providers, emphasizing that Malaysian institutions possess extensive talent, facilities, and intellectual property. Zambry stressed that research should not conclude with publications, innovation should not end with patents, and discoveries must transform into solutions, prototypes into products, and ideas into opportunities.

During the three-day summit, URIIS 2026 will explore at least nine strategic sectors, including food security, healthcare, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, advanced manufacturing, green technology, mobility, defence, and biodiversity.