Miri Regional Development Center Inaugurated - YIM Promotes Innovative Ecosystem Building

(Miri, 23rd) Dr. Sharmila Mohamed Salleh, Chief Executive Officer of the Malaysian Innovation Foundation (YIM), stated that the establishment of the Miri Regional Development Center is the result of strategic cooperation between the federal government and the Sarawak state government. It aims to strengthen the knowledge and innovation ecosystem in Sarawak, especially in the Miri region, and to enhance community skills and competitiveness in the digital age.

She made these remarks this morning at the multimedia gallery on the first floor of the Sarawak State Library in Miri, during the inauguration ceremony of the Miri Regional Development Center (RDC) and the signing ceremony of the memorandum of understanding between the library and the Malaysian Innovation Foundation.

She pointed out that since its establishment in 2008, YIM has been under the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation Malaysia (MOSTI), dedicated to discovering and nurturing innovative projects, with particular focus on children, youth, women, persons with disabilities (OKU), rural communities, non-governmental organizations (NGO), and the B40 low-income groups. YIM's core mission is to encourage creativity in the science, technology, and innovation (STIE) sectors at academic, industrial, and community levels.

Dr. Sharmila pointed out that since 2021, YIM has promoted the Creative Space (RDC) program and established the first regional development center in Negeri Sembilan. This program aims to build a comprehensive science and technology ecosystem, improving the quality of life and economic well-being of rural residents.

She revealed that the regional development centers are equipped with advanced technology equipment, including 3D printers, robots, drones, and digital studios. They also have 3D printing labs, robotics labs, and virtual reality labs to help students, youth, and SMEs master modern technological skills. The centers also offer digital innovation workshops, Industry 4.0 training, and technology entrepreneurship courses to drive community digital transformation and economic development.

"This initiative also responds to the second focus area of the National Social Innovation Policy (DIS)—cultivating and empowering creativity; as well as the fourth focus area—integrating social innovation infrastructure." She said YIM is also actively addressing challenges faced by innovators, including financial management and business model development.

Dr. Sharmila stated that as of May 2025, a total of 23 regional development centers have been established nationwide, with Miri being the first RDC in Sarawak after Sibu. To date, RDCs have received over 13,500 visitors, conducted 501 STIE module activities, established partnerships with 30 strategic partners and 20 academic institutions, and engaged more than 11,000 participants.

In addition, YIM also provides funding through the Malaysian Social Innovation Program (MyIS) to encourage local innovators to turn their ideas into socially beneficial solutions, including MyIS community, grassroots, and pioneer projects.

She concluded by thanking all supporting and partnering organizations, and expressed hope that the Miri RDC will continue to have a positive and lasting impact on the community.