KUALA LUMPUR: The United Kingdom government is offering International Science Partnership Fund (ISPF) worth £218 million (RM1.3bil) for low and middle income countries for research and innovation projects.
Malaysia is also one of countries to benefit from the Official Development Assistance from the UK government aiming to unlock potential and foster prosperity between the two countries.
British High Commission (BHC) Kuala Lumpur launched the fund earlier today to support researchers and innovators to work with peers around the world on major themes - resilient planet; transformative technologies; healthy people, animals and plants; and tomorrow's talent.
British High Commissioner to Malaysia Alisa Terry said that Malaysia as a developing nation has the edge to secure the funds due to its attention to innovation and research activities.
"The UK and Malaysia share a longstanding research
partnership through the Newton-Ungku Omar Fund and Global Challenges Research Fund.
"The launch of the ISPF in Malaysia is the next chapter of our ambitious science and technology partnership with Malaysia, and our joint commitment in developing talent and capabilities, strengthening our research network and tackle some of greatest challenges we face today," she said during the launching ceremony here today.
"Malaysia, being the country on the way to become a high income nation, can benefit from the fund for projects which can create a tangible impact to the world," she said.
Science, Technology and Innovation minister Chang Lih Kang said that the fund marks a key collaboration between Malaysia and the UK in driving a new phase in country's science and technology journey.
"This partnership fosters innovative research and sustainable advancements that will enrich both nations.
"Our joint efforts exemplify the strength of international cooperation in advancing science and technology for global well-being," he said.
For more information on the ISPF can register by the link provided https://forms.office.com/e/kfXenAHmCz