MedTechPreneur 1.0 launched, Propel Local Medical Device Industry and Boost National Innovation

15 October 2025

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s Ministry of Entrepreneurship and Co-operatives Development (MEDC) has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in the country’s health technology sector, with the launch of the MedTechPreneur 1.0 programme. The initiative aims to position Malaysia as a significant player in the global medical device industry, aligning with the nation’s broader economic transformation goals.

Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick highlighted the Ministry’s pivotal role in developing a holistic and conducive entrepreneurial ecosystem that supports high-value sectors such as medical devices. Speaking at the launch event held today, he expressed appreciation for the Medical Devices Authority (MDA) for its proactive efforts in empowering local entrepreneurs and positioning Malaysia’s medical device industry for future growth.

“The MedTechPreneur 1.0 programme is a strategic platform that will enable Malaysian entrepreneurs to venture into the health device industry, contributing not just as manufacturers but as creators of future medical technologies,” Datuk Ewon Benedick said. “This initiative aligns with our national agenda for inclusive, sustainable, and competitive growth, as well as the broader industrial transformation outlined in the NIMP 2030.”

Malaysia’s economy is currently experiencing robust growth, with the MSME sector expanding at an estimated 5.8% in 2024 and contributing 39.5% to the nation’s GDP. To sustain this momentum, the government has increased its allocation to support entrepreneurs, with RM1.015 billion allocated to MEDC in Budget 2026, the highest ever, representing a 24.6% increase from the previous year.

These funds are designated for a variety of categories, including MSMEs, co-operatives, social enterprises, and informal entrepreneurs, with special focus on Bumiputera, women, B40, and youth entrepreneurs, including those in Sabah and Sarawak. The Ministry aims to leverage these resources to scale up local businesses from micro to medium-sized enterprises, particularly within high-growth, high-value industries like medical devices.

The MedTechPreneur 1.0 programme is seen as a key driver in Malaysia’s national strategy to develop a resilient and innovative entrepreneurial ecosystem. It also complements the objectives of the MADANI Economic Agenda and the National Entrepreneurship Policy 2030 (DKN 2030), which collectively aim to transform Malaysia into a leading entrepreneurial nation by 2030.

Ewon emphasised that Malaysia should advance beyond merely being a consumer of medical technology to become a producer, creator, and exporter of world-class medical devices. The Ministry’s collaboration with MDA and other agencies exemplifies this vision, promoting a whole-of-government approach to policy coordination and industry development.

The Minister expressed optimism that programmes like MedTechPreneur 1.0 will open new pathways for local MSMEs to increase production capacity, technological expertise, and access international markets, ultimately contributing to a stronger, more resilient national economy.

“Innovation and entrepreneurship in the health device sector are critical to Malaysia’s future. With the support of the Ministry and our strategic partners, I am confident we will see more entrepreneurs emerge, driving growth and transforming Malaysia into a regional hub for medical technology,” he concluded.

The launch of MedTechPreneur 1.0 and the International Medical Device Exhibition and Conference (IMDEC) 2026 signifies Malaysia’s dedication to nurturing a vibrant, innovative health tech industry that aligns with its vision of economic advancement and global competitiveness.