The government, in an effort to make Malaysia a highly innovative country, is targeting 70 scientists for a workforce of every 10,000 employees by 2020, says Science, Technology and Innovation (Mosti) Minister Abu Bakar Mohamad Diah.

Abu Bakar said so far there were 68 scientists in many fields to a workforce of 10,000 employees as a result of various government initiatives.

"Many programmes organised by my ministry, like education carnivals, invention programmes and exposure to the world of science will all help in creating more scientists.

"At the same time, we want to launch at least 70 new products every year and we are committed to ensure students of today are creative, innovative and competitive, in sync with current times," Abu Bakar ( left ) told reporters after opening an education carnival in Pekan, Pahang, today.

He said the ministry would continue to support the development of innovation among the people by introducing innovative products globally.

Only between eight to 10 percent of innovative ideas were commercialised every year as there were few takers.

MOSTI would bring innovative creations to international exhibitions via the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation to gain exposure and to increase the percentage of commercialisation to between 10 and 15 percent, Abu Bakar added.

- Bernama