KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has the potential to become a hub for technological innovation in Southeast Asia, says Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.
He said that by fostering a culture of creativity and entrepreneurship, engineers could be empowered to develop solutions that were not only locally relevant but also globally competitive.
"Currently, Malaysia has around 200,000 engineers, with universities producing approximately 15,000 new engineers each year. We need not only those who can design and construct infrastructure but also those who can tackle problems, addressing both national and global challenges," he said at the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM) convention today.
Highlighting green energy as a critical focus area for engineers, Fadillah said: "As we transition to green energy, we require engineers to contribute to sustainable solutions for our environment."
He said there was a need for collaboration among various stakeholders — including the government, academia, industry practitioners, non-governmental organisations, and the private sector — to establish Malaysia as a centre for engineering excellence.
"If we can cultivate partnerships among these stakeholders, Insyallah, we can position Malaysia as a hub for engineering development," he added.
Earlier, Fadillah attended the signing ceremony for a memorandum of understanding regarding the electronic bulk (e-bulk) registration of university students with the BEM.
The e-bulk registration system serves as an online platform designed for engineering graduates, providing them with opportunities to apply their skills and gain professional experience.
This initiative ensures that their practical experience is recognized and endorsed by the BEM.