NEED TO EXCEL IN ROBOTICS TECHNOLOGY

PETALING JAYA (Malaysia), Feb 6 (Bernama) -- Malaysia needs to excel in
robotics technology which can contribute to the nation's earnings in the
manufacturing and services sectors, Science, Technology and Innovation Minister
Dr Maximus J. Ongkili said Friday.

Knowledge of robotics is important as the technology is no longer foreign in
the globalisation era now, Ongkili said at the launch of RoboFair 2009.

"Mastering robotics technology is not impossible if Malaysian society is
ready to develop robotic products able to meet current needs," he said.

The text of his speech was read by the ministry's deputy secretary-general
(science) Prof Khadijah Yusoff.

On RoboFair 2009, Ongkili said it represented an effort to promote the
technology culture and support the government's aim for a society knowledgeable
in science and technology.

The event could help to increase knowledge in science and technology among
members of the public and students, he said. -- BERNAMA