Latest news with #TechnologyandInnovation
Daily Express
17 hours ago
- Business
- Daily Express
ILTP shows promising performance
Published on: Saturday, June 28, 2025 Published on: Sat, Jun 28, 2025 By: Crystal E Hermenegildus Text Size: Arifin presenting a certificate to one of the Best Trainee Award recipients during the ILTP convocation ceremony. Kota Kinabalu: The employment and academic progression rates of Institut Latihan Teknik dan Perdagangan (ILTP) graduates are on an upward trend, reflecting the growing impact of technical and trade training in Sabah. Sabah Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Mohd Arifin Mohd Arif said recent data shows significant improvements in graduate outcomes from ILTP – a training institution under the Human Resource Development Department (JPSM). 'In 2023, 42 per cent of ILTP graduates secured employment while 21 per cent continued their studies. 'By 2024, those numbers rose to 54 per cent employed and 24 per cent pursuing higher education,' he said during the 35th ILTP JPSM Convocation Ceremony at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC). 'These numbers show that ILTP graduates are gaining traction in various sectors across Sabah and are becoming increasingly competitive. Their success should inspire current and future trainees to aim higher,' he added. A total of 310 graduates completed their training this year, with 18 outstanding individuals – nine each from technical and trade programs – receiving the Excellent Trainee Award in recognition of their excellence and determination. 'Your achievements reflect your perseverance and fighting spirit. Today, you prove that determination leads to success,' said Arifin in congratulating the awardees. He emphasised that ILTP's growing track record is a result of both the trainees' commitment and the dedication of the instructors behind them. 'Our instructors have been instrumental in shaping the character and skillsets of these young talents. Their role is more vital than ever, especially as we face increasing demand for skilled workers in the age of globalisation and Industry 4.0,' he said. Arifin also assured that ILTP graduates who continue to higher education would be supported through multiple financial aid avenues, including Yayasan Sabah, the State Government Scholarship, the Sabah State Education Fund, and potential sponsorships from Asnab. 'This year, the State has allocated RM125 million in scholarships, benefiting more than 3,000 students – triple the number from previous years,' he added. Acknowledging that TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) still faces public perception challenges, Arifin stressed the need to change the narrative. 'Many still view TVET as a second-choice path. That needs to change. Skilled trades offer stable, in-demand careers – often with better job prospects than some oversaturated professional fields,' he said. To boost interest and awareness, the state is actively promoting Stem and TVET education through initiatives like the State-level TVET Stem Carnival, the Sabah State TVET Council, and collaborations with religious institutions such as the State Tahfiz Institute and Tahfiz Limum Bakut through the 'TVET Tahfiz' programme. 'ILTP's consistent results are a testament to the value of vocational education in Sabah's development journey,' Arifin concluded. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Arabian Post
3 days ago
- Business
- Arabian Post
Malaysia Unveils Ambitious ASEAN Startup Hub
Malaysia has officially unveiled the Startup ASEAN platform during its tenure as ASEAN chair, establishing a fully operational digital gateway designed to unite entrepreneurs, investors and ecosystem enablers across Southeast Asia. The launch—following a developmental blueprint initiated in 2024—unlocks access to regional markets, capital, talent and data, with an aspirational target of onboarding at least 10,000 startups by year-end. The platform's roll‑out represents phase two of the ASEAN Startup Technology Ignite initiative. Development and a soft launch took place in 2024, while the newly announced phase includes capacity‑building programmes and a Startup ASEAN summit. A third phase commencing in 2026 will see the establishment of an ASEAN Centre of Excellence dedicated to early‑stage ventures. Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Chang Lih Kang described the platform as a 'strategic enabler' born from collaborative efforts among all ASEAN member states. He highlighted its role in bridging fragmented access to finance, talent and market opportunities. At the launch in Putrajaya, he underlined that approximately 5,000 startups have already joined and affirmed the year‑end goal of doubling that number. ADVERTISEMENT ASEAN Secretary‑General Dr Kao Kim Hourn echoed these commitments, stating that the platform exemplifies deeper regional integration and presents 'unprecedented opportunities' through technology. He noted that the platform extends to ecosystem builders and government institutions, reflecting ASEAN's dedication to fostering inclusive innovation. Cradle Fund Sdn Bhd, appointed by Malaysia's MOSTI, is spearheading implementation. Its group chief executive, Norman Matthieu Vanhaecke, emphasised that the platform transcends mere technology: it is designed to generate meaningful partnerships, foster cross‑border initiatives and catalyse growth across the region. He said it will track metrics such as startup onboarding, investment activity and regional collaboration, aiming to involve 2,000 investors and 500 strategic partners by 2025. Dr Kao highlighted the context underpinning this push. Southeast Asia hosts over 680 million people—more than half under 35—with a combined GDP exceeding US$3.9 trillion and a digital economy projected to surpass US$1 trillion by 2030. Kuala Lumpur's leap into the top 20 emerging startup hubs, ranking 18th in the Global Startup Ecosystem Report 2025 by Startup Genome, provided a credible basis for regional leadership. CupTuring beyond connecting stakeholders, the platform is set to host a suite of programmes. Already underway are collaborative initiatives with international partners such as South Korea and China, and plans include additional regional market‑access sessions and mentorship opportunities. The launch event featured a video tour with startup success narratives and a regional market access session, ASEAN CrossConnect, which paired ten seasoned mentors with participating startups. The platform's ecosystem metrics are compelling: as of the launch, more than 4,000 startups and 1,087 investors were registered, contributing to an ecosystem valued at over US$131.2 billion. Governments from less developed ASEAN nations were assured of equal standing on the platform. Chang emphasised its borderless design, allowing any startup with internet access to connect with markets and investors across the region. The Startup ASEAN initiative traces back to 2023, when ASEAN leaders approved a framework empowering Cradle to lead policy development, ecosystem readiness, and cross‑sector partnerships. The recent formal launch marks the first major deliverable of the Ignite initiative under Malaysia's ASEAN chairmanship. Experts view the initiative as a timely response to ASEAN's broader economic integration agenda, reflected in recent high‑level declarations such as the Kuala Lumpur Declaration. The new platform aligns with ASEAN Community Vision 2045, aiming to strengthen innovation, connectivity and socio-economic resilience.
The Sun
3 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
Startup ASEAN Platform a step forward for regional integration – ASEAN sec-gen
PUTRAJAYA: The official launch of the Startup ASEAN platform today marks a transformative step forward in strengthening regional collaboration, serving as a central digital hub for entrepreneurs, investors, governments and ecosystem builders across all ASEAN member states. ASEAN Secretary-General Dr Kao Kim Hourn said the platform reflects ASEAN's strong commitment to deepening regional integration, while opening new opportunities through technology and innovation. 'This platform embodies ASEAN's unwavering commitment to deepening regional integration while unlocking unprecedented opportunities through technology and innovation,' he said in his speech delivered virtually at the launch ceremony here today. Malaysia today launched the Startup ASEAN platform, marking the full-scale rollout of a bold, unified digital gateway to connect and empower startups across ASEAN. Spearheaded by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) and executed by Cradle Fund Sdn Bhd (Cradle), the platform's regional launch underscores Malaysia's commitment as ASEAN Chair this year to fostering inclusive innovation and economic dynamism across the region. Kao highlighted Malaysia's leadership as ASEAN Chair in implementing the ASEAN Technology Startup Ignite programme, one of the region's key economic deliverables this year. The year-long programme has played an important role in driving startup growth across ASEAN, successfully connecting over 11,000 startups with 5,000 investors and supporting a startup ecosystem now valued at more than US$130 billion. He said the newly launched Startup ASEAN platform builds on this momentum and represents a key initiative that brings together all players in the startup ecosystem under one roof. 'The launch stands as a testament to Malaysia's dedication to building a platform that serves every ASEAN member state, one that champions open innovation, deepens access to capital, and positions ASEAN as a dynamic and interconnected innovation powerhouse,' he added. Kao said Kuala Lumpur's entry into the top 20 emerging startup ecosystems for the first time, ranking 18th in the Global Startup Ecosystem Report 2025 by Startup Genome, further reflects the strong foundation Malaysia has built for its national ecosystem. He added that this recognition also highlights Malaysia's growing influence in elevating the region's innovation landscape. Looking ahead, the ASEAN Secretary-General expressed confidence that the platform, under Malaysia's leadership, will help shape a more inclusive and future-ready ASEAN by fostering startup-friendly policies, enhancing readiness across member states, and promoting meaningful partnerships across the region. He said the timing of the launch was significant, coming just weeks after ASEAN leaders gathered in Kuala Lumpur and adopted the Kuala Lumpur Declaration, which commemorated the 10th anniversary of the ASEAN Community. The declaration reaffirmed ASEAN's commitment to the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, which aims to build a resilient, innovative and people-centred region based on four strategic pillars – political-security, economic, socio-cultural and connectivity. 'In this context, the Startup ASEAN platform is a timely and tangible step forward in shaping an ASEAN that is enterprising, adaptive and equipped to thrive amid global shifts,' he said. Kao concluded by expressing the ASEAN Secretariat's continued support for the initiative and called on all member states to collectively strengthen the regional innovation ecosystem.
Business Insider
3 days ago
- Business
- Business Insider
Ghana to ban plastic straw imports as government pushes for eco-friendly alternatives
The Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation (MESTI), Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, has announced the government's plan to restrict the importation of single-use plastic items, including plastic straws, as part of a broader strategy to transition Ghana toward a circular and more environmentally sustainable economy. Ghana plans to restrict the importation of single-use plastic items, including plastic straws, to promote ecological sustainability. Ghana produces over 1.1 million tonnes of plastic waste annually, with only 9% being recycled. The initiative promotes local and sustainable alternatives, such as bamboo straws and cassava-based packaging. Speaking at the Environmental Sustainability Summit in Accra on Tuesday, 24 June 2025, Dr Muhammed emphasised the urgent need for the country to shift away from harmful plastic products and embrace sustainable, locally produced alternatives. 'We aim to restrict products such as plastic straws while promoting local alternatives. These are some of the measures we are considering,' he stated. Promoting Local Innovation and Sustainable Products DON'T MISS THIS: Ghana's economy records 5.3% growth in Q1 2025, surpassing expectations Dr Muhammed highlighted the efforts of Ghanaian entrepreneurs who are already stepping up to provide eco-friendly solutions. Among the alternatives being championed are bamboo straws, cassava-based packaging materials, and refillable containers. 'Entrepreneurs are already producing sustainable alternatives like bamboo straws, cassava-based packaging, and refillable containers,' he added, noting that government support for such ventures will be integral to reducing environmental degradation. Plastic Waste Crisis in Ghana Ghana's plastic waste problem has reached alarming levels. According to the ministry, the country now generates over 1.1 million tonnes of plastic waste each year, a significant increase from 40,000 tonnes a few decades ago. Despite this massive output, only 9% of plastic waste is currently recycled, while nearly half remains uncollected. The rest often ends up clogging drainage systems or polluting rivers and oceans, posing severe risks to both the environment and public health. A Shift Toward a Greener Future The new policy direction is aligned with global sustainability goals and comes at a time when many countries are phasing out single-use plastics in favour of reusable and biodegradable alternatives. By encouraging the production and adoption of sustainable products, the government aims to not only reduce plastic pollution but also empower local industries and entrepreneurs who are pioneering eco-innovations. As Ghana moves towards implementing these policies, the Ministry of Environment is expected to release detailed guidelines and timelines for the enforcement of import restrictions on plastic straws and similar items.
The Sun
3 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
Malaysia targets 10,000 startups under ASEAN Platform by year-end
PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia is targeting to onboard at least 10,000 startups by the end of this year under the newly launched Startup ASEAN platform. The platform serves as a regional digital gateway to connect and empower startups, investors and talents across Southeast Asia. Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI), Chang Lih Kang, said the platform currently hosts about 5,000 startups and is showing encouraging progress since becoming fully operational. 'We are targeting at least 10,000 startups by year-end, and we have already reached around half of that. 'This shows promising development, and we hope the platform will help the entire region to grow together. The benefits are not limited to a single country but extend to all ASEAN member states,' he told reporters after officiating the launch of the platform here today. Malaysia, as the ASEAN chair in 2025, is spearheading the initiative through MOSTI, with implementation by Cradle Fund Sdn Bhd. The platform was developed in collaboration with all 10 ASEAN member states. In his speech at the launch, Chang said the Startup ASEAN platform reflects Malaysia's commitment to lead with purpose, adding that it represents the first major deliverable under the ASEAN Startup Initiative. 'As chair of ASEAN in 2025, Malaysia has taken on a bold responsibility to shape a future-oriented startup ecosystem. Through this initiative, we are proud to introduce the ASEAN Technology Startup Ignite 2025,' he said. Chang noted that Southeast Asia is home to more than 680 million people, with over half of the population aged below 35. The region has a combined gross domestic product of more than US$3.9 trillion, while its digital economy is projected to exceed US$1 trillion by 2030 (US$1=RM4.233). The platform's launch today marks the second phase of a longer regional roadmap. The first phase, completed in 2024, focused on developing the platform and engaging stakeholders. The third phase, expected in 2026, will see the establishment of the ASEAN Centre of Excellence for early-stage startups to further elevate the region's innovation ecosystem. Asked how MOSTI will ensure inclusivity for startups in less developed ASEAN member states, Chang said the platform was designed to be borderless and accessible to all. 'This regional platform is one of the ways we can assist startups from less developed countries. As long as you have internet access, you can come on board. Your company can be seen by investors and talent from anywhere in the region. This is how we help increase their visibility and chances of success,' he said. Tracking Impact and Regional Collaboration Cradle group chief executive officer Norman Matthieu Vanhaecke said the platform comes with clear performance indicators, including startup participation, investment outcomes, and regional collaboration. 'In 2025, we aim to onboard 10,000 startups, 2,000 investors and 500 strategic partners. We are also planning to run five regional programmes through the platform. These efforts will support an ecosystem valued at around US$131.2 billion,' he said. Vanhaecke said the platform is not just a database but a regional tool for inclusive impact. 'We will track the number of investments, the emergence of new startups, and collaborations between founders from different countries. Two regional programmes are already in place through our dialogue partners from Korea and China. These are open to all startups across ASEAN,' he said. Vanhaecke said three more regional programmes will be introduced this year, with more to follow in the future. 'This is just the beginning. With strong participation from ASEAN countries, the platform has the potential to become a key enabler for innovation, growth and cross-border cooperation,' he said.
