KUALA LUMPUR — The I-Nation Global Summit 2024 concluded today with Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Datuk Hj Mohamad Yusof Apdal, expressing optimism about Malaysia’s position as a regional leader in technology and innovation. The three-day event at Nexus Connexion in Bangsar South brought together over 4,500 participants, including global leaders, innovators, and policymakers, under the theme “Collaborate. Innovate. Elevate: Advancing Impactful Innovation Together.”
In his closing remarks, Yusof highlighted the summit’s success in fostering cross-border collaboration and promoting innovation across six key industries: 4IR Technologies, Autonomous Tech, 5G Connectivity, Life Sciences, HealthTech, and Sustainability. “This summit has provided a platform to elevate Malaysia’s position in innovation, ensuring that our nation and Southeast Asia remain competitive in the global market,” he said.
I-Nation A Platform for Progress and Partnerships
Yusof reflected on the significance of the summit, which featured keynote speeches by prominent figures such as AirAsia CEO Tan Sri Tony Fernandes and economist Prof. Dr. Jomo Kwame Sundaram. Key moments included the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement between MRANTI and CyberSecurity Malaysia, and matchmaking sessions connecting technology solution providers with industry seekers.
He underscored Malaysia’s advancements in AI and automation under the National 4IR Policy and praised Johor’s emergence as a major data centre hub in the Asia Pacific. “Johor’s strategic location and access to energy resources have made it a key player in the region, hosting 13 data centres across more than 15 hectares,” he noted.
The deputy minister also emphasised Malaysia’s commitment to food security, citing initiatives such as the National Agro-Food Policy 2.0, which aims to modernise agriculture through technology while reducing import dependency and ensuring fair pricing for consumers.
Key Achievements of the Summit
Among the highlights were discussions on the ASEAN Power Grid and renewable energy goals, aligning with Malaysia’s upcoming ASEAN 2025 Chairmanship under the theme of “Inclusivity and Sustainability.”
Yusof described the summit as a “crucible of connection,” fostering partnerships and collaboration to address pressing global challenges.
Satellite events such as the NTIS Global Sandbox Forum and the Supercharger Finale provided hands-on workshops, product demonstrations, and networking opportunities. “Through meaningful exchanges in sessions and informal settings, the summit has sparked new ideas, inspired partnerships, and deepened friendships,” he added.
A Resounding Call to Action
The I-Nation Global Summit 2024 has proven to be a vital platform for advancing innovation and sustainability in the region. By bringing together global leaders and industry pioneers, the event reinforced Malaysia’s leadership in technology and its role in driving inclusive development within ASEAN.
As the summit concluded, Yusof urged participants to continue driving impactful innovation beyond the event. “Let us carry forward the spirit of Collaborate. Innovate. Elevate. Together, we can create a brighter, more sustainable future—not just for our organisations but for our communities, our nation, and the world,” he said.
The success of I-Nation 2024 sets a strong foundation for Malaysia’s innovation ecosystem as the nation gears up for its ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025, with a focus on advancing impactful solutions for a sustainable future. – NMH
Source: New Malaysia Herald. “As I-Nation Global Summit 2024 Concludes, Malaysia Affirms Leadership in Innovation,” December 4, 2024. Read more.
