The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) said that national research and development (R&D) centre MIMOS’ technological capabilities can advance digitalisation in Malaysia towards boosting post-COVID-19 economic growth.
Its minister Khairy Jamaluddin said some of MIMOS’ initiatives in accelerating digital transformation among businesses and services included the development of a national digital identity (Digital ID).
“(The ministry) will propose to accelerate Digital ID adoption for secure online services and transactions towards a digitalised government and nation. (MyDigitalID is) fully linked with your MyKad. (The initiative is) now at POC (proof-of-concept) stage,” he said.
Khairy made his maiden visit to MIMOS at Technology Park Malaysia, here, on Wednesday (10 June 2020) as part of his series of visits to MOSTI’s agencies and departments.
Khairy said the visit was aimed at outlining MIMOS’ direction as national R&D centre in driving advanced technology for economic development.
Khairy was briefed by MIMOS senior management team led by its interim Chief Executive Officer, Emelia Matrahah. The Minister was made to understand on the agency’s roles, capabilities, challenges and opportunities as well other organisational issues.
Also present were his Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Haji Ahmad Amzad Hashim, the ministry’s Secretary-General, Datuk Ir. Dr. Siti Hamisah Tapsir, MIMOS chairman, Tan Sri Shahril Shamsuddin and Chief Technology Officer, Thillai Raj.
Khairy commended MIMOS’ competency in developing digital solutions including the Government Online Services Gateway, which he described as clear, simple and offering better user experience; the healthcare database system and food safety management system.
The minister also hinted on the need for further discussions with the agency on MOSTI’s National Technology and Innovation Sandbox to aid in the nation’s digitalisation process, and on the technology funding ecosystem.
He spoke on a possible collaboration between MIMOS and the Department of Islamic Development (JAKIM) on food safety management with regard to halal traceability, and the utilisation of Big Data technology in various areas that can benefit the rakyat.
Khairy was later taken on a tour to MIMOS’ labs and facilities, which form part of MIMOS’ commitment in supporting the country’s Electrical and Electronics sector.
Emelia said, MIMOS has served as the Government’s key technology provider, having implemented high-impact projects across various socio-economic sectors, which have resulted in significant cost savings for the Government.
“MIMOS supports industry creation and development in the areas of ICT, Semiconductor and Microelectronics to ensure continued national competitiveness. The role also entails capacity and capability building as well as provision of advisory and consultancy services to Government and industry,” she said, adding that the centre has been an important talent development centre for future workforce in the said technology areas since 2005.
The centre’s R&D ecosystem offers advanced shared services facilities, POC centres and related support services that are open to multinationals and local SMEs as well as startups, to facilitate affordable access to new technologies and enable low cost of entry.