KUALA LUMPUR — Innovations in healthcare must translate into practical solutions that improve patient outcomes, said Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Chang Lih Kang. Speaking at the World Union of Wound Healing Societies 2026 Congress on Friday, Chang emphasized that effective wound care goes beyond treatment to include prevention, early intervention, diagnosis, clinical management, rehabilitation, patient education, and long-term quality of life.

Chang highlighted the need to generate new knowledge and swiftly apply research findings to clinical practice to address real-world challenges. “Improving standards requires us to develop innovations that respond to actual healthcare needs,” he said.

The ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (Mosti) is focusing on strengthening the ecosystem for research, development, commercialisation, and innovation. According to Chang, research should not be confined to academic or laboratory settings but must deliver tangible impacts that enhance lives, reinforce the healthcare system, boost productivity, and support economic growth.

Healthcare remains a critical area for scientific and technological advancement, particularly as Malaysia confronts an aging population, a rise in chronic diseases, and increasing demand for personalised care. Mosti is therefore enhancing capabilities in fields such as biotechnology, genomics, artificial intelligence, advanced materials, and digital health to develop technologies that improve diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment.

Chang cited the MyGenom initiative as an example of this approach. The program aims to build a genomic database reflective of the Malaysian population to advance genomic science and precision health. He noted that advances in genomics could lead to better understanding of disease risks and more precise strategies for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.

At a press conference following the congress, Chang reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to supporting local innovators by providing funding assistance and facilitating research efforts. A key priority remains accelerating the commercialisation of research and development products to bring more innovations to the marketplace.

“One of our priorities is to see more R&D products entering the market,” he stated, underscoring the ministry’s focus on translating scientific progress into accessible healthcare solutions.