KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysia is positioning itself as a global player in virology research and innovation, as part of its broader ambition to become a high-tech, self-sufficient nation by 2030, according to Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Chang Lih Kang.

Speaking at the opening of the 3rd International Conference of the World Society for Virology (WSV2025) here yesterday, Chang said Malaysia is committed to building science-driven resilience and public health security.

“Our target is to become a technology producer by 2030 and not just a user, but a creator and innovator, including in biotechnology,” he noted.

The conference, also attended by WSV president Dr Maria Soderlund-Venermo, brought together over 300 experts from more than 25 countries, underscoring Malaysia’s growing scientific capacity and its aim to become a regional biotechnology hub.