MIRI: The Ruang Daya Cipta (RDC) Miri is set to become a catalyst for grassroots-level social innovation and inclusive technology development, strengthening the local science and technology ecosystem.
Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation (Mosti) Datuk Mohammad Yusof Apdal, said the establishment of the RDC reflects his ministry’s commitment — through the Malaysian Innovation Foundation (YIM) — to bringing Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) closer to the people.
“This event is not merely symbolic; it reflects the government’s continued efforts to ensure STI is accessible and beneficial to all segments of society, in line with the Malaysia Madani aspirations.
“I was informed that as of today, a total of 23 RDCs have been established across the country for community use,” he said when officiating at the RDC Miri yesterday (June 23).
RDC Miri is the second such facility in Sarawak after RDC Sibu and is designed as an open innovation hub, technical training centre, and social innovation platform accessible to all members of the community, regardless of background.
The implementation of the RDC is based on the Quintuple Helix approach, which integrates collaboration among the government, industry, academia, community, and environment.
“This approach not only enhances education and skill training but also drives the creation of innovative solutions to local social challenges.
“The strong collaboration and commitment from the Sarawak State Government is deeply appreciated, particularly the full support from Pustaka Negeri Sarawak Miri in providing the space for RDC development, which clearly reflects joint efforts in strengthening the community-level innovation ecosystem,” he added.
He also shared that several modules have already been introduced at RDC Miri, including the 3D Resin Showcase, Glow Sense: LED Magic with Ultrasonic Sensors, Dobot Robotic Arm: Laser Engraving, and Virtual Reality Exploration.
He said these modules demonstrate that technology is no longer limited to select groups, but is now accessible to B40 communities, persons with disabilities (OKU), single mothers, and rural populations.
“This approach aligns with the ‘By the People, For the People’ principle outlined in the Social Innovation Policy (DIS), a sectoral policy that supports the implementation of the National Science, Technology and Innovation Policy (DSTIN) 2021–2030,” he said.
“MOSTI and YIM will continue driving various strategic initiatives, including research funding, expanding RDC networks to other states, and building impactful international collaborations,” he added.
The event also witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Sarawak State Library and the Malaysian Innovation Foundation.
Signing on behalf of the Sarawak State Library was its deputy chief executive officer (Operations) Wan Mazli Wan Razali, representing CEO Japri Bujang Masli, while the Malaysian Innovation Foundation was represented by its chief executive officer Dr Sharmila Mohamed Salleh.
