KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 19 – The MRANTI Impact Challenge Accelerator (MICA) programme which was launched today provides RM1.2 million in grant, support and services for technology start-ups and innovators in the areas of climate change, disaster mapping and management as well as malnutrition.
The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) in a statement today said the programme is a collaboration between the Malaysian Research Accelerator for Technology and Innovation (MRANTI), United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and Proficeo representing public-private partnership.
According to the statement, the programme which is in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) will be implemented in three phases, starting September 2022 for a period of 12 months where participants will have access to business training, impact solutions and value-added services.
Minister, Datuk Seri Dr Adham Baba said support will also be provided in the form of capacity building, market access and networking opportunities.
“Awareness and action to address issues of climate change and malnutrition should be managed strategically and effectively. It should be fostered at all layers of society and from as young as possible. The MICA programme is in line with the country’s vision to develop Malaysia as a high-tech country and it supports the government’s commitment towards sustainable growth in line with the aspirations of Keluarga Malaysia (the Malaysian Family),” he said.
The statement said the impact of the programme will benefit the next generation, especially children under the age of 18 who make up 28 per cent of the population in Malaysia.
In tackling climate change, MICA is looking for solutions that can equip children and youth with the proper knowledge or skills to address the risks of climate change, said the statement.
“In terms of disaster management, the programme encourages technology-based solutions that can anticipate risks and serve as a disaster early warning mechanism for natural or manmade disasters,” MOSTI said.
To address the growing number of malnutrition cases, MICA welcomes solutions that will include aspects of education, communication as well as access to healthy nutrition resources for the target group of mothers and babies, the statement added.
