KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) has confirmed that no Omicron COVID-19 variant has been detected in Malaysia so far.
Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Seri Dr Adham Baba said this was confirmed through genome sequencing of samples conducted by seven laboratories including the Malaysian Genome and Vaccine Institute (MGVI).
"As of yesterday, a total of 5,651 samples have been analysed and 3,885 samples were identified as Delta type variant while two samples were identified from the subvariant AY4.2 which was detected last month," he told reporters after attending MYHackathon 2020 graduation ceremony at the Malaysian International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) here today.
However, he said MOSTI would continue conducting genome sequencing of samples to monitor the emergence of any new variants in the country.
He also said that MGVI would conduct genome sequencing on individuals who tested positive for COVID-19 at the country's border entry points.
Meanwhile, he said MOSTI through its agency Cradle Fund Sdn Bhd would provide conditional grants amounting to RM4.5 million to 18 MYHackathon 2020 winners for their solutions in improving the government's digital delivery system.
He said each winner would receive a grant amounting to RM250,000 in stages to develop their digital solution ideas for the pilot project stage.
He explained that Cradle Fund would monitor and ensure the implementation of the pilot projects by the grant recipients within a year.
MYHackathon 2020 had received a total of 1,853 participation nationwide, of which only 123 groups were shortlisted to present their ideas in the finals.
The competition is an initiative under the National Economic Recovery Plan (Penjana), designed to allow all parties to mobilise efforts in finding digital solutions to problems highlighted by target groups.
A total of 18 solutions were developed by the winners of MYHackathon 2020 which have been gradually deployed to address the new norm in public services.
-- BERNAMA
Bernama
Wed Dec 01 2021
The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) has confirmed that no Omicron COVID-19 variant has been detected in Malaysia so far, said Datuk Seri Dr Adham Baba. - Cradle Fund Sdn Bhd
What to watch for ahead of US presidential inauguration
Here's a timeline of events between now and inauguration day.
The battle to reduce road deaths
In Malaysia, over half a million road accidents have been recorded so far this year.
Pro-Palestinian NGOs seek court order to stop Dutch arms exports to Israel
The Dutch state, as a signatory to the 1948 Genocide Convention, has a duty to take all reasonable measures at its disposal to prevent genocide.
How quickly can Trump's Musk-led efficiency panel slash US regulations?
Moves by Trump and his appointees to eliminate existing rules will be met with legal challenges, as many progressive groups and Democratic officials have made clear.
2TM: Consultations on PTPTN loans, admission to IPTA at MOHE booth
Consultations on PTPTN loans and admission to IPTA are among services provided at the Higher Education Ministry booth.
Kampung Tanjung Kala residents affected by flooded bridge every time it rains heavily
Almost 200 residents from 60 homes in Kampung Tanjung Kala have ended up stuck when their 200-metre (m) long concrete bridge flooded.
COP29 climate summit draft proposes rich countries pay $250 billion per year
The draft finance deal criticised by both developed and developing nations.
Bomb squad sent to London's Gatwick Airport after terminal evacuation
This was following the discovery of a suspected prohibited item in luggage.
Kelantan urges caution amidst northeast monsoon rains
Kelantan has reminded the public in the state to refrain from outdoor activities with the arrival of the Northeast Monsoon season.
Former New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern receives UN leadership award
Former New Zealand prime minister Jacinda Ardern was given a global leadership award by the United Nations Foundation.
ICC'S arrest warrants for Netanyahu, Gallant an apt decision - PM
The decision of the ICC to issue arrest warrants against Benjamin Netanyahu and Yoav Gallant is apt, said Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
KTMB provides two additional ETS trains for Christmas, school holidays
KTMB will provide two additional ETS trains for the KL Sentral-Padang Besar route and return trips in conjunction with the holidays.
BNM'S international reserves rise to USD118 bil as at Nov 15, 2024
Malaysia's international reserves rose to US$118.0 billion as at Nov 15, 2024, up from US$117.6 billion on Oct 30, 2024.
Findings by dark energy researchers back Einstein's conception of gravity
The findings announced are part of a years-long study of the history of the cosmos focusing upon dark energy.
NRES responds to Rimbawatch press release on COP29
The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES) wishes to offer the following clarifications to the issues raised.
Online Safety Bill and Anti-Cyberbullying Laws must carefully balance rights and protections
The Online Safety Advocacy Group (OSAG) stands united with people in Malaysia in the fight against serious online harms.
Malaysia's inflation at 1.9 pct in Oct 2024 - DOSM
Malaysia's inflation rate for October 2024 has increased to 1.9 per cent, up from 1.8 per cent in September this year.
Saudi Arabia showcases Vision 2030 goals at Airshow China 2024
For the first time, Saudi Arabia is participating in the China International Aviation & Aerospace Exhibition held recently in Zhuhai.
King Charles' coronation cost GBP 71mil, govt accounts show
The coronation of Britain's King Charles cost taxpayers GBP72 million (US$90 million), official accounts have revealed.
Couple and associate charged with trafficking 51.9 kg of meth
A married couple and a man were charged in the Magistrate's Court here today with trafficking 51.974 kilogrammes of Methamphetamine.