Building Research Bridges Between Malaysia and China

Ten Malaysian researchers have been selected to participate in the Malaysia Science Endowment (MSE) Malaysia-China Science and Technology People-to-People Exchange Programme 2025, marking an important step forward in strengthening bilateral scientific collaboration and advancing Malaysia’s research and innovation ecosystem.

The programme welcomes 10 researchers from China to Malaysia, creating opportunities for meaningful knowledge exchange, capacity building and long-term partnerships in science, technology and innovation (STI).

Announced by ASM and the MSE, the initiative will place the selected Malaysian researchers at leading research institutions, universities and industry organisations across China for a six-month attachment programme.

The programme builds on the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the Exchange of Expertise in Science and Technology, signed by the Governments of Malaysia and the People’s Republic of China on 19 June 2024 during Chinese Premier Li Qiang’s official visit to Malaysia.

With researchers from both countries taking part in the exchange, the programme goes beyond individual attachments. It creates opportunities to build lasting research connections,

The selected researchers represent universities and institutions from across Malaysia. They will undertake placements at prestigious Chinese institutions, including Tsinghua University, Fudan University, the University of Science and Technology of China, Xidian University and several other renowned research centres.

Their work will focus on key strategic areas such as advanced materials, artificial intelligence, energy storage, human vaccines, space technology, blockchain and microelectronics.

According to Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation YB Datuk Chang Lih Kang, the programme reflects a strategic investment that extends beyond conventional researcher exchanges.

By leveraging the MSE, the initiative strengthens international collaboration, supports talent development, and provides researchers with access to world-class expertise, facilities, and innovation ecosystems.

ASM President and Science, Technology and Innovation Advisor to the Prime Minister and the Nation, Academician Datuk Dr Tengku Mohd Azzman Shariffadeen FASc, described the programme as an investment in talent, networks and national capability. He highlighted that participating researchers will not only represent Malaysia abroad but will also return with valuable knowledge, strategic connections, and new collaborative opportunities that can strengthen the nation’s science, technology, innovation, and economy (STIE) ecosystem.

To ensure the programme’s impact extends beyond individual participants, researchers will be required to submit impact reports and videos upon completion of their placements, and to share their experiences and expertise through mentoring and knowledge-sharing sessions at their respective institutions. This approach will help disseminate new insights and best practices throughout the broader Malaysian research community.

Their participation reflects Malaysia’s commitment to fostering global scientific partnerships, nurturing research excellence and developing future-ready talent capable of addressing complex challenges and creating new opportunities for national and regional progress.