MOSTI hopes National STI adviser can coordinate, drive STEM agenda

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 15 (Bernama) --  The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) hopes that national adviser on science, technology and innovation (STI), Professor Emerita Datuk Dr Asma Ismail can coordinate efforts to drive the country's Science, Technology, Mathematics and Engineering (STEM) agenda.

Its minister, Datuk Seri Dr Adham Baba said the appointment of the Akademi Sains Malaysia (ASM) president as the National STI adviser was the highest recognition given to an agency under MOSTI

"The appointment involves responsibility to ensure that the journey and interest in STEM activities can be formed from an early stage and this interest needs to be aligned with 'emerging technology in the future," he told the media after the presentation of the 2022 Oil and Gas Service and Equipment Innovation Awards here today.

He said Asma's appointment is seen to coincide with her expertise and extensive knowledge in the field of science, technology, innovation and economics (STIE).

"MOSTI is confident that Dr Asma can help the country deal with the current issues that can be overcome through the use of science, technology and innovation," he said.

Meanwhile, in a media statement, Asma expressed her appreciation and gratitude to the Cabinet for the appointment.

"I will carry out this trust as best I can for the sake of the country and the nation. Together with the management and the current 888 multidisciplinary experts, ASM as a think tank has and will continue to provide the best input regarding STI to the country," she said.

Asma called for the cooperation of all parties at the federal, ministry, state, industry and society levels as a whole in transforming Malaysia into a more glorious country.

"Through diplomatic relations and collaboration with various academies and scientific organisations around the world, ASM will also work to provide Malaysia with new solutions and preparedness to face current and future challenges more effectively.

"This can simultaneously guarantee the well-being of the people, socioeconomic development and the sustainability of the country's competitiveness," she said.

Asma's appointment to the position was announced by the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) in a statement yesterday. It came into force on June 23 until the end of her term as ASM president on Dec 27.

-- BERNAMA