ASM Factsheet: 30 Years of Achievements

ASM’s role includes enculturing and empowering the nation’s science, technology, innovation and economy (STIE) ecosystem. ASM remains committed to ensuring Malaysia reaches the status of a high-tech nation by 2030. Throughout its 30 years of operation, ASM has visibly evolved in its roles as a science, technology and innovation agency.

The infographic presents the evolution of ASM roles since its inception in 1995 and the significant projects and studies it has carried out. Since 2010, ASM has carried out 132 scientific studies involving the Expert Network and stakeholders from various sectors. 1,040 Expert Network members comprise academics from various science and technology fields.

Several programmes have been organised to mobilise the nation’s science, technology, and innovation. Program Penyelidikan Antartika Malaysia globalised Malaysian research and researchers in the Antarctic region; Program Nobel Laureate Kebangsaan drove STI excellence through engagements with Nobel Laureates to inspire Malaysian scientists to achieve greater heights. In this era, teachers and students were also empowered via programmes such as the Inquiry-based Science Education (IBSE), National Science Challenge, and estidotmy.

ASM came into the role of a Science Communicator in 2005 via various programmes that showcase the nation’s scientific excellence. In this era, programmes such as the scientific expedition to Imbak Canyon in Sabah revealed scientific innovations in the country’s natural environment. Malaysia’s participation in the National Astronaut Programme, in collaboration with the National Space Agency (ANGKASA), placed the country on the global map.

Studies like the Mega Science and New Economic Opportunities signalled ASM’s emergence as a prominent Think Tank. These studies identified science and technology fields that could elevate the nation’s socio-economy. Besides that, initiatives such as the Top Research Scientists Malaysia (TRSM), Young Scientists Network (YSN-ASM) and ASM Science Journal empowered the nation’s academics nationally and globally.

Following the Think Tank era, ASM entered the Thought Leader era in its efforts to advance STI for the betterment of society. Studies such as Envisioning Malaysia 2050: A Foresight Narrative and Emerging Science, Engineering & Technology (ESET) aim to chart Malaysia’s path toward 2050 through the strategic selection and advancement of technology. In addition, Science Outlook delved deep into Malaysia’s STI landscape by assessing the nation’s STI performance and comparing its STI ecosystem with international standards to identify and address challenges and opportunities.

The organisation’s efforts to elevate Malaysia as a High Tech Nation in 2030 highlight ASM’s Changemaker era. The 10-10 MySTIE Framework aims to energise the nation’s research, innovation, and enterprise via 10 drivers and enablers. Besides that, inter-sector collaboration continues to thrive through initiatives such as I-Connect and the Malaysia Open Science Platform (MOSP). ASM also pushes for the intersection of science and the arts via the ArtScience™ Initiative to inspire creativity and innovation.

Since its inception in 1995, ASM’s achievements have increased the organisation’s visibility and influence in science, technology, innovation and economy (STIE). The ASM President’s appointment as the STIE Advisor to the Prime Minister further increased the nation’s belief in science and technology. Additionally, science and innovation leaders can share their knowledge, views, and experiences with a larger audience via the ASM Podcast. The nation’s research is also empowered by the Malaysia Science Endowment, which opened the doors to opportunities for sustainable funding alternatives for STI-related activities. STI is also spearheading the ASEAN AHEAD 2050 programme, an important guide and call to propel the ASEAN region’s future come 2050.