Malaysia Must Develop Homegrown Technology, Says Anwar

Malaysia must move beyond being a passive consumer and importer of technology and strengthen its ability to develop homegrown industrial capabilities, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said. He stressed that local industry players, researchers and government agencies must work together to adapt, produce and eventually export technological innovations that meet the country’s needs. Anwar said successful collaboration should go beyond discussions by creating opportunities for practical learning, testing, local capability development and wider market adoption.

Local Industries Key to Homegrown Technology

Anwar highlighted 3D concrete printing as an example of how Malaysia could move from adopting existing technologies to developing its own expertise. He commended the Works Ministry and the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) for exploring the technology during the International Construction Week 2026 event at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre.

He also cautioned against leaving local contractors, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), behind as the construction sector adopts modular methods, automation, robotics and digital design. Anwar said the success of technological transformation should not be measured solely by the number of projects completed or technologies introduced, but by the capabilities developed and opportunities created for local businesses.

Anwar says Malaysia must strengthen local technological expertise and reduce its dependence on imported innovations.

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Homegrown Technology