Muhyddin: Science key to more jobs and income

KUALA LUMPUR: Science is essential in driving Malaysia's economy as it is the key to creating jobs and generating income for Malaysians, said Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin.
He said that many elements important to fostering and using good science in the country are well embedded in national economic development plans.
"But achieving this requires a good relationship between science and society, based on trust in science and scientists," he said at the welcoming ceremony of the 3rd United Nations Secretary-General Scientific Advisory Board Meeting here.
Muhyiddin said for the past three decades, Malaysia has undergone a period of rapid and sustained growth facilitated by the government through market liberalisation, offering incentives for investment, removing barriers and encouraging the private sector to help codevelop the country's progress.
"We have put in place policies, regulations and guidelines to promote sustainable development for a clean, safe and healthy environment for all Malaysians," he said.
Later, opening the Asean SME showcase and conference 2015 here, Muhyiddin added that it is crucial to engage women and youth into Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) development in the Asean region.
He said most of the highly innovative enterprises tend to start out as SMEs, which contribute to gender and youth empowerment, as well as inclusive growth and development in terms of income and employment generation.
Muhyddin also said it is imperative for them to harness the economic power of women and youth, as well as the Asean integration as a global game changer, noting that women and youth are essential part in the changing dynamic landscape in the business world.