Malaysia is emerging as a leader in innovation, earning recognition from international organisations and countries around the world. The Malaysian Innovation Foundation, or Yayasan Inovasi Malaysia is a key player in this success, fostering innovation and addressing social challenges through local technology and innovative solutions. In an interview during a media get-together recently, the CEO of YIM, Dr Sharmila Mohamed Salleh, shares insights into the foundation’s role, achievements, future plans and its functions in the innovation ecosystem.
Yayasan Inovasi Malaysia (YIM) serves as a catalyst in Malaysia’s social innovation ecosystem by developing local technology and innovative solutions that address community needs. The foundation collaborates strategically with ministries, agencies, industries, communities, and civil society to ensure that innovations are competitive and impactful.
According to Dr Sharmila Mohamed Salleh, YIM’s Chief Executive Officer, the Foundtion supports the government’s efforts to develop Malaysia into a progressive, sustainable, and high-tech nation, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to ensure inclusive development.
Support for Innovators
Over the past three years, YIM has supported numerous innovators through initiatives such as the MyIS Social Innovation Grassroots Program, MyIS Community Program, and the Inclusive SME Ecosystem (I-SEE) Program. These initiatives provide grants, training, and collaboration opportunities to help innovators produce market-competitive solutions. For example, the MyIS Social Innovation Grassroots Program has supported 40 grant recipients from 2021 to 2024.
Types of Assistance Provided By YIM
YIM offers various forms of assistance to encourage community innovation, including financial grants, training, mentorship, and market access. The foundation provides grants such as the MyIS Community Grant, MyIS Grassroots Innovation Grant (MaGRIs), and the Inclusive SME Ecosystem (I-SEE) Grant, with funding amounts ranging from RM50,000 to RM300,000. These grants support research and development, commercialization, and the expansion of market reach.
Goals and Achievements
YIM’s primary goal is to empower social innovation and increase Malaysia’s global competitiveness. The foundation aims to develop at least 12 innovative solutions per state within five years, focusing on local needs and utilizing local technology. These solutions are intended to provide direct benefits to the community, such as job creation and improved living standards. YIM’s efforts are aligned with national strategies such as the 10-10 MySTIE Framework and the National Science, Technology, and Innovation Policy (DSTIN 2021-2030).
Plans for the Future
This year, YIM plans to expand its support programs for innovators by offering more comprehensive training and financing assistance. The foundation will strengthen collaborations with the private sector and government agencies to facilitate market access and commercialisation opportunities. YIM will also focus on cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and biotechnology through workshops and training programs. Additionally, YIM aims to establish more Makerspaces (RDC) to provide local communities with access to technology and innovation development opportunities.
International Collaborations and Achievements
YIM’s relationship with international markets, particularly India, has been significant. Through the ASEAN India Grassroots Innovation Forum, YIM collaborates with grassroots innovators to address social challenges. The foundation’s international contributions have been recognized by the United Nations, and YIM has received several awards, including the Social Innovation Award and recognition from the Global Innovation Management Institute (GIMI).
Inspiring the Younger Generation
To inspire interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields among the younger generation, YIM implements programs such as the Malaysia Techlympics Program. This initiative allows students to enhance their technical skills through STEM challenges and competitions. YIM also organizes innovation competitions and provides STEM equipment to schools, aiming to attract more students to science and technology fields.
Worth noting is that YIM’s unwavering commitment to fostering innovation and addressing social challenges is paving the way for a progressive and sustainable Malaysia. By empowering communities, supporting innovators, and inspiring the younger generation, YIM is ensuring that innovation remains at the heart of Malaysia’s development. – NMH
Datin Hasnah is the co-founder and CEO of New Malaysia Herald based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
With an extensive background in mass communication and journalism, she works on building up New Malaysia Herald and it’s partner sites. A tireless and passionate evangalist, she champions autism studies and support groups.
Datin Hasnah is also the Editor in Chief of New Malaysia Herald.
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