Malaysia is building a new research corridor across Asia to meet China’s rise: scientists
When chemical engineer Ahmad Zuhairi Abdullah joined Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) 22 years ago, Western institutions dominated the field, from global research infrastructure and high-impact publications to the greatest breakthroughs. Two decades later, the centre of gravity has moved eastward, says Zuhairi, now a professor with the USM school of chemical engineering in Penang. “[Not much was…
Malaysia is constructing a new research corridor across Asia to adapt to China's growing influence in the scientific community, according to scientists. Two decades ago, Western institutions held the upper hand in terms of research infrastructure, impact, and breakthroughs. However, China has since emerged as a formidable competitor, prompting Malaysia to strengthen its research networks closer to home.
Chinese scientists are increasingly recognized for their expertise in materials science, with numerous publications and contributions to scientific journals.
One notable example of this shift is the Joint Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering, established in January. Researchers from Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) and Huaqiao University in China's Fujian province collaborate on converting agricultural waste into valuable products and sustainable energy materials. This partnership focuses on leveraging Malaysia's abundant palm oil sector biomass, such as lignin, to create phenolic substances with potential applications in adhesives and fuel additives.
In the realm of advanced hardware and semiconductors, Malaysia-China collaborations are expanding rapidly. The Institute of Nano Optoelectronics Research and Technology (INOR) at USM is working with Chinese institutions like Chongqing University and Fudan University to develop wide-bandgap semiconductors, solar cells, and nanophotonic devices. These collaborations highlight the importance of diversifying research partnerships beyond traditional ties with institutions in Germany and France.
Malaysia's National Semiconductor Strategy, released in 2024, aims to shift from back-end chip assembly and testing to integrated circuit design, high-end manufacturing, and niche equipment. This strategic move reflects the nation's desire to strengthen its front-end capabilities while capitalizing on its existing strengths in back-end operations.
Despite growing trade friction and technological competition between Washington and Beijing, scientists emphasize the importance of maintaining open collaborations. Malaysia, which maintains a politically neutral stance, encourages diversification of international partners to foster innovation and technological advancements.
Written by urgent.news from Reuters Business via SCMP's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
