Intensifying R&D efforts
> Monash University Malaysia launches MIDAapproved R&D status company
MONASH University Malaysia recently launched the Monash Malaysia R&D Sdn Bhd (MMR&D) to create a bridge between academia and the industry. As an approved R&D status company by the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), the MMR&D strives to influence and impact organisations in Malaysia to invest in R&D that will enable the country to be an innovation-driven economy. It also aims to develop and provide leading-edge R&D expertise to industries and organisations to discover innovative solutions that enhance their global competitiveness.
“If we want to progress, we need to constantly enhance our capabilities to innovate and the best way to innovate is through R&D. Being a MIDA approved R&D status company puts us in good stead, giving us the opportunity to work with SMEs, MNCs, GLCs and other players in Malaysia,” said MMR&D CEO Prof Mahendhiran Nair.
“MMR&D is one of five private higher education institutions in Malaysia that has been granted R&D status by MIDA. As of June 2017, MIDA has approved a total of 179 projects to undertake R&D activities, with a total of RM2.84 billion of investments that have generated more than 6,300 employment opportunities for the industry,” said MIDA CEO Datuk Azman Mahmud.
“Companies across a wide range of industries in Malaysia stand to gain from the R&D expertise offered by MMR&D. We urge more companies, particularly the small and medium sized companies to leverage on R&D establishments like MMR&D and explore new areas of growth,” he added.
According to Mahendhiran, “MMR&D will provide STEM related testing, industry-linked PhD programmes, internships, work placements and experiential learning opportunities.”