PUTRAJAYA:Researchers and industry players can now obtain information about existing equipment and technology in the country through the National Nanotechnology Laboratory Network (RMNK).

Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Khairy Jamaluddin said through the RMNK website at www.mosti.gov.my/rmnk, that researchers could obtain research and development (R&D) results in a short time using existing labs and facilities in the country.

He said researchers and industry players had to send research samples for nanotechnology measurements overseas previously because of the lack of knowledge regarding sources and facilities available in the country.

"With this network, the use of resources can be done more efficiently and the R&D costs and flow of money overseas will be reduced,” he said during the virtual launch of the RMNK website today.

He said the initiative was the result of cooperation between the Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry (MOSTI) through the National Nanotechnology Centre (NNC) with all stakeholders, which is aimed at creating and driving the nanotechnology ecosystem in the country in a progressive and dynamic manner.

"The website can benefit researchers and industry players by enabling them to receive consultancy and technical advice and use of equipment to conduct nanotechnology-based research,” he said.

Khairy hoped that the website would encourage more researchers and industry players to participate actively in the Malaysia Grand Challenge (MGC) that has allocated funds of over RM220 million for R&D under the ministry’s Pemacu strategic technology fund.

-- BERNAMA