Policy and strategies to enhance scientific research in Malaysia

Abstract

The Fifth Malaysia Plan (FMP) addresses for the first time inter-sectoral issues on science and technology (S & T) and in so doing integrates the strategies for S & T development into the overall national socio-economic development plan. With respect to research and development (R & D), the FMP calls for the strengthening of the management system to enable a more centralized planning and coordinated implementation to meet national objectives and priorities. It also advocates increased allocation for R & D and balanced distribution of resources to basic, applied and developmental research. This paper describes briefly some of the measures being taken to meet the R & D objectives of the FMP. It will also attempt to identify the place of marine science research in the overall R & D strategy.