Malaysia needs to do more to turn its strong research capabilities into market-ready innovations, with the country ranking 30th globally for innovation inputs but only 39th for outputs, according to the Intellectual Property Corporation of Malaysia (MyIPO).
MyIPO director-general Yusnieza Syarmila Yusoff said the gap highlighted the need to strengthen technology transfer offices (TTOs) at higher education and research institutions so that local research and patents can generate greater economic impact.
“The fact is that the country has a very large pool of talent, expertise and investment in research, with Malaysia ranking first in the world for the indicator on science and engineering graduates.
“However, the strength and expertise of our researchers should be translated into the creation of quality innovations that are able to penetrate markets, technology licensing, the growth of spin-off companies, as well as creative solutions that directly benefit the people.
“In efforts to bridge this input and output gap, TTOs are among the most critical players,” she said.
She was speaking at the second Central Zone Technology Transfer Office Empowerment Programme held at Menara MyIPO, PJ Sentral, which brought together about 200 TTO heads, researchers, innovators and academics from public and private universities, polytechnics and research institutions.
The programme focuses on strengthening capabilities in intellectual property management, including patent analytics, IP valuation, infringement case studies and legal protection strategies.
It also aims to encourage collaboration between institutions and industry to improve the commercial returns from research conducted by higher education institutions.
The national initiative is being conducted through four regional programmes. The first was held at Universiti Sains Malaysia for the Northern Zone on May 12, while the Eastern Zone programme will be held at Universiti Malaysia Kelantan on Sept 15.
The final programme will be held at Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia for the Southern Zone in November.
