Objective:
To forecast the human resource needs in Science and Technology (S&T) and the R&D investment required by Malaysia up to the year 2020 to support the goals of Vision 2020.

Methodology:
The study was based on a comprehensive survey of 3,523 industrial firms in Malaysia, with a high response rate of 63.3%, to establish baseline data on the S&T workforce and R&D expenditure.

Key Findings:

1. The study revealed a very significant shortage of skilled S&T talent in Malaysia. Nearly 72% of firms reported that their near-term operations were adversely affected by this shortage.
2. In 1996, there were an estimated 25,621 scientists and engineers and 45,987 technicians employed in the industrial sector in Malaysia.
3. Annual R&D expenditure by industry was estimated to be nearly RM600 million, with the electrical and electronics sector being the largest contributor.
4. The report provides critical baseline data and serves as an important reference for policymakers in formulating strategies for national S&T human capital development.