SHAH ALAM - The participation of Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli in a reality show called Innovathon, focused on science, technology, and innovation, is not for him to become an artist but to provide a platform for individuals to showcase their talents.
He said when Innovathon was launched, people mistakenly thought that he wanted to be an artist.
"That is not the purpose behind my involvement in the show," he said.
"As I said before, the problem that Malaysia has always been plaguing is that we have a lot of talents but we don't have the platform or opportunity to showcase them," he said on Facebook, today.
On July 6, Sinar reported that Astro had launched a reality television show called Innovathon in collaboration with the Economy Ministry and the Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) ministry. It began airing on July 15.
The programme aims to highlight skills and innovative ideas that address socioeconomic issues and it received 1,033 entries from across the nation.
The participants range from a seven-year-old to a 73-year-old, representing different age groups.
Rafizi said venture capital firms were also involved in the show to witness the ideas and innovations presented by Malaysians.
He said innovations can come from individuals of all backgrounds, regardless of age.
"If you have an idea with technical strength and market value, you can secure investment," he added.