KOTA BHARU: Malaysia needs to ensure that at least 70 per cent of its employment opportunities are rooted in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) if it is to achieve developed nation status, according to the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (Mosti).
Abdullah Daud, secretary of Mosti’s Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Enculturation and Services Division, said the target reflects the structural changes required in the country’s workforce to support a knowledge-driven and innovation-led economy.
“To become a developed nation, seven out of every 10 jobs must be dominated by or based on STEM, particularly in engineering, architecture and scientific fields,” he said after officiating the 2025 STI Madani Carnival at UTC Kelantan.
Abdullah noted that global economic trends increasingly favour countries with strong STEM capabilities, especially as industries adopt automation, artificial intelligence and advanced digital technologies.
He said Mosti is therefore intensifying efforts to empower STEM across all levels of society, with a strong emphasis on youth development as the backbone of future talent.
Among the key initiatives is the nationwide rollout of the STI Madani Carnival, which aims to bring STEM exposure beyond urban centres and into rural and underserved communities.
“This year, the programme is being implemented based on parliamentary constituencies to ensure comprehensive coverage and inclusivity,” he said.
Abdullah added that researchers from Universiti Malaya have been appointed to study students’ interests and tendencies in STEM, with interim findings indicating lower participation levels in states such as Kelantan, Sabah and Sarawak.
He said the data would guide targeted interventions to strengthen STEM education and engagement nationwide.