The strengthening of collaboration between industry and universities has increasingly been recognised as a critical enabler for accelerating innovation, commercialisation and talent development in support of Malaysia’s aspirations towards a sustainable and high-value economy.

These priorities were highlighted during the Focus Group Discussions held in conjunction with the University Research and Innovation Investment Summit (URIIS).

Perspectives from academia, industry, and government agencies were brought together to address challenges affecting industry-university partnerships and to identify opportunities for a more responsive and resilient innovation ecosystem.

Lengthy bureaucratic process

Among the key concerns raised was the lengthy bureaucratic process associated with research collaborations.

It was noted that research agreements within universities could require up to six months for completion due to multiple layers of approvals.

Such delays have often been viewed as disincentives to investment, with research funding in some instances being redirected to overseas institutions.

In response, the introduction of accelerated approval mechanisms and the utilisation of university spin-off companies were proposed as measures through which administrative barriers could be reduced and collaboration processes expedited.

Limited visibility of university-developed technologies and services was also identified as a major challenge.

Despite considerable research capabilities, many innovations, including renewable energy technologies, robotics and advanced engineering solutions, have remained insufficiently exposed to industry players.

As a consequence, dependence on foreign suppliers and original equipment manufacturers has continued to persist.

Greater emphasis, therefore, was placed on the promotion of research outcomes and technological capabilities, accompanied by the provision of long-term consultancy and after-sales support to ensure sustained value creation following commercialisation.

The importance of trust and relationship-building was equally underscored.

Closer engagement between university researchers and industry stakeholders was viewed as essential for enhancing confidence and facilitating the wider adoption of locally developed technologies.

Talent development

Particular attention was given to the growing need for talent development to support emerging maritime and green industries.

Although highly qualified graduates continue to be produced, a mismatch between workforce capabilities and industry requirements was acknowledged.

This issue is especially evident among small and medium enterprises (SMEs), where reliance on low- and medium-skilled labour remains prevalent.

Through initiatives undertaken by agencies such as the Malaysia Productivity Corporation (MPC), productivity blueprints and workforce development strategies have been formulated to better align education and training with industrial needs.

The establishment of structured career pathways and talent development frameworks, particularly for communities in rural areas, was also regarded as increasingly important.

Industry demand, talent supply and labour mobility

A three-dimensional approach encompassing industry demand, talent supply and labour mobility was proposed to ensure stronger alignment between workforce readiness and economic priorities.

Malaysia's ambition to become a regional leader in green technology, particularly within the maritime sector, was further emphasised throughout the discussions.

In line with the National Energy Transition Roadmap and the nation’s decarbonisation agenda, opportunities within offshore renewable energy, hydrogen production, carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS), and low-carbon maritime technologies have been identified.

These have been identified as strategic growth areas.

Significant potential such as solar energy, hydrogen, and CCUS technologies has also been recognised in supporting the transition towards greener maritime operations, sustainable offshore activities, and next-generation energy solutions.

These developments could strengthen Malaysia’s position as a competitive maritime and energy hub in the region.

Nevertheless, regulatory constraints and the limited capacity of local technology vendors were acknowledged as persistent challenges.

Enhanced coordination, greater access to strategic information and stronger support mechanisms for domestic technology providers were identified as necessary to improve competitiveness and reduce reliance on imported solutions.

It was ultimately recognised that the advancement of Malaysia’s green technology and maritime ambitions will require the collective commitment of universities, industry players and government agencies.

Through stronger partnerships, open communication, and sustained engagement, a vibrant innovation ecosystem could be fostered.

This would ensure that research excellence, talent development, and technological advancement remain closely aligned with the nation’s long-term aspirations for sustainable growth and global competitiveness.

-- BERNAMA

Dr Izyan Munirah Mohd Zaideeen is a Senior Lecturer at the Faculty of Maritime Studies and a Fellow of the Industrial Centre of Excellence (Maritime Cluster) at Universiti Malaysia Terengganu.