Presidential Address: Science in Action, Shaping Malaysia’s Sound Future

ASM reaffirmed its role as the nation’s leading science, technology, innovation, and economy (STIE) think tank during its 31^st Annual General Meeting (AGM), with President Academician Datuk Dr Tengku Mohd Azzman Shariffadeen FASc calling for stronger, mission-driven approaches to address Malaysia’s increasingly complex challenges. Delivering his address themed “Science in Action, Shaping Malaysia’s Sound Future,” he noted that Malaysia is navigating “postnormal times,” marked by uncertainty, rapid change, and interconnected issues. In such a landscape, science must play a more active role in guiding policy, strengthening resilience, and supporting inclusive development.

Strengthening Science for a Complex World

ASM has expanded beyond its traditional advisory role to act as a national “super-connector,” bringing together stakeholders across government, industry, academia, and civil society. This includes amplifying diverse voices in evidence-based policymaking.

“The challenges Malaysia faces today, ranging from climate resilience to economic transformation, are deeply interconnected,” the President said, emphasising the need for systems-level solutions and collaboration.

ASM’s Expert Network, now exceeding 1,000 members, continues to serve as a key source of collective intelligence for national progress.

From Outputs to Impact

A major highlight was the upcoming Strategic Plan 2026–2030, built on a “Return-on-Values” approach that prioritises outcomes and impact over outputs. The plan outlines five strategic goals, supported by six core strategies and seven action plans, positioning ASM as a thought leader in building a sustainable and inclusive society.

With a stronger emphasis on science communication, advocacy, and diplomacy, ASM aims to enhance public readiness to navigate future uncertainties.

Advancing Mission-Oriented Innovation

Central to ASM’s direction is mission-oriented innovation that aligns national priorities with targeted initiatives. Key efforts include the National RDICE Roadmap, the Malaysia Science Endowment (MSE), and the Innovation Readiness Level (IRL) framework, which expands evaluation beyond technology maturity to include market readiness and delivery potential.

ASM is also leading national missions in areas such as food security, oil palm value creation, quantum technologies, digital healthcare, and an ageing society.

Delivering Impact

Beyond policy, ASM’s initiatives are producing tangible outcomes. The Precision Biodiversity programme, for example, uses artificial intelligence to achieve up to 99.5% accuracy in species identification, thereby supporting sustainable forest management.

ASM also contributes to international science diplomacy through platforms such as APEC and ASEAN, strengthening regional collaboration.

A Call to Action

The President stressed that success ultimately depends on delivery. “Great ideas must translate into real outcomes,” he said, highlighting the importance of governance, trust, and effective communication.

He concluded with a call for collective action. “We must move from stagnation to vitality. Every mission must deliver outcomes that strengthen wellbeing, safeguard planetary health, and build a trusted science ecosystem.”

As ASM moves forward, its message is clear. Science must not only inform decisions but also drive action and deliver lasting impact for the nation.

Watch the Presidential Address on ASM’s YouTube channel.